Day Trip: Mission Beach San Diego Fun Things To Do

Mission Beach is a charming small community situated on the coast of San Diego that resembles the East Coast beach towns. This is the perfect spot if you are fond of beaches like Atlantic City and Coney Island. Once a summer retreat, Mission Beach has retained many of the cottages constructed between the 1920s and 1940s, which have now been converted into condos or two-story homes. The neighboring communities of Ocean Beach to the south and Pacific Beach to the north were the first to develop, but as the need for land increased, a bridge was constructed in 1914 to connect all three communities.

Things To Do In Mission Beach

Mission Beach is a small community in San Diego reminiscent of an east coast beach town. Formerly a summer getaway spot, many of the cottages built between the 1920s and 1940s are still around, but most have been turned into condos or two-story homes. Nearby communities Ocean Beach to the south and Pacific Beach to the north were the first to develop, but as the need for land grew, a bridge was constructed to connect all three beach communities.

Ride the Giant Dipper Belmont Park

A scenic boardwalk runs alongside two miles of pristine oceanfront on both sides of this friendly community. The town’s central street is Mission Boulevard and at the intersection of Mission Blvd and West Mission Bay Drive, an amusement park delights teenagers. Belmont Park, built in 1925 to stimulate real estate sales, is home to the original wooden Giant Dipper Roller Coaster. In addition to this classic ride, newer attractions include the Flow Rider, Vertical Plunge, Krazy Kars, Liberty Carousel, Crazy Submarine, and The Beach Blaster.

Mission Beach Vibe

As you explore Mission Beach, you will encounter a diverse group of people, from artistic individuals to fashion-forward individuals sporting designer sunglasses. No matter what type of outdoor adventure you’re interested in, Mission Beach has something to offer everyone. You’ll witness many people biking and soaking up the perfect weather, including students from nearby universities like San Diego State University and the University of San Diego. It’s also worth noting that many celebrities have made homes in the area, so keep your eyes peeled!

Mission Beach Bars and Dining

Sandbar Sports Bar and Grill

Sandbar Sports Bar and Grill is located just off the beach and offers plenty of seating options, including an upstairs deck, indoor seating downstairs, and outdoor seating. They don’t take reservations, so it’s first come, first serve. The fish tacos are rated as San Diego’s best. The staff is friendly, and the food and drinks are good. You can enjoy views of Mission Beach and Belmont Park. 718 Ventura Pl San Diego, California.

Beach House Tequila + Taqueria

The Beach House is right on the beach, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. It is the perfect spot to watch people strolling along the beach boardwalk. The bar has ample outdoor seating with umbrellas to provide shade from the sun. Some seating areas are located directly on the boardwalk, filling up quickly as they operate on a first-come-first-serve basis. Private cabanas can be reserved for exclusive parties. On weekends, live entertainment is available for visitors.

The Plunge Mission Beach San Diego

Architect Frank Walter Stevenson played a significant role in designing the Mission Beach Plunge in Belmont Park. Originally called the Natatorium, the swimming pool was opened in May 1925 and measured 60 feet by 175 feet, making it the largest saltwater pool in the world with a capacity of 400,000 gallons. The Plunge was closed in 2016 and underwent extensive renovation before the public reopened. The colossal pool is accessible to everyone, and you can purchase daily or monthly passes to enjoy its facilities.

South Mission Beach

Near the end of the boardwalk at South Mission Beach, anglers can be seen casting their lines while boats pass through the Harbor Channel, making it an excellent spot for observing. On bright days, you can glimpse a series of shipwrecks half a mile off the coast. These wrecks were intentionally placed to create an artificial reef, which is now a popular diving destination. The area is also home to two local favorite beach bars, The Pennant Bar and the Beachcomber, located on Mission Boulevard.

Bahia Belle Cruises

The Bahia Belle is a Mississippi-style boat that operates seasonally and provides a 45-minute sightseeing cruise of Mission Bay. You can board the Bahia Belle from the Bahia Resort Hotel or the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa. You don’t need to be a hotel guest to enjoy a bay cruise, although guests receive a discount: View Mission Beach and the other communities surrounding Mission Bay Park in San Diego.

Parking Mission Beach San Diego

Parking is tricky to come by, with residents taking most of it. Public parking lots are available around Belmont Park, Santa Clara Point, and South Mission Beach Park. Consider renting a bike and enjoying the weather and sites with a closer view. Mission Beach is a 2.5-hour drive from Los Angeles and an hour and a half south of Orange County.

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