Mission Beach is a vibrant gem nestled along two-miles of beautiful San Diego coastline. A lively community built on a sandbar between the Pacific Ocean and Mission Bay, some may compare it to the East Coast’s Atlantic City and Coney Island, but there is a unique ‘Southern California’ vibe here that you can’t find elsewhere.
The community is split into the South and North Mission areas, and the boardwalk offers a stunning beachside stroll along both the bay and ocean sides of Mission Beach. With a jetty at the south end of the beach extending into the glistening blue jewel that is the Pacific Ocean and many beautiful places to walk, there are endless options for taking in the San Diego sunshine.
For those seeking more adrenaline-fueled activities, Belmont Park is the place to go. Visitors can rent rollerblades to zoom up and down the boardwalk, brave the historic 73-foot-tall Giant Dipper rollercoaster, visit the arcade and ride the bumper cars, or try the ‘Chaos’, ‘Tilt-a-Whirl’ and ‘Beach Blaster’ rides, as well as the ‘FlowRider’ artificial wave at the Wave House.
Those interested in sports will have plenty to keep them occupied as Mission Beach is a perfect setting for surfing, boogie boarding, kite boarding and swimming – but remember to check the safety signs for designated areas. Volleyball, Frisbee and skating are also popular outdoor activities, and local skating club “Skate This!” gives an incredible free weekend dancing and trick skating display. With a public recreation center at Santa Clara Place, and the Wave House Athletic Club at the south end of Belmont Park, you’ll never be short of places to enjoy the beautiful San Diego weather. Mission Beach also includes Mariner’s Point, which is the original site of the over-the-line softball-on-the-beach tournament.
After you jog, cycle, roll or stroll along the boardwalk during the day, the sandy shores begin to light up. As the sky darkens the local nightlife takes over with clubs, bars, street performers and plenty of places to eat; whether you prefer hot dogs or fine dining. The carnival atmosphere predominantly attracts a younger crowd but you can expect a diverse array of people. Many of the beachgoers are local university and college students, but tourists and permanent residents are also frequently seen. Mission Beach is a friendly and exciting place to live, study or visit.
The atmosphere is inclusive and offers something for everyone. If you’re seeking a slower pace, the South Mission Beach area offers a more peaceful spot to fish. You can also simply relax and enjoy the afternoon watching boats pass through the Harbor Channel. In addition, just a half-mile off the coast is an artificial reef with a series of shipwrecks.
With a relaxed yet vibrant feel both day and night, San Diego’s Mission Beach offers a unique array of activities. Furthermore, it all takes place alongside relaxing sunbathing spots, a spectacular coastline and Californian sun.
