Ready for some San Diego sun?  Let’s go explore Mission Beach and Belmont Park.

Mission Beach is a 2 mile band of land between the Pacific and Mission Bay.  The boardwalk is a nice place to take in the sights along the Pacific or do some waterfront shopping.  It’s relatively flat, so if you want to bike, roller blade or simply take an easy stroll, the boardwalk will do you just fine.

Belmont Park

If you’re looking for a classic amusement park, Belmont Park is the place to go.  This is where the Big Dipper roller coaster is located.  This coaster was originally built in 1925, but thankfully, has been restored since.  It’s apparently a big deal because it’s protected under the National Register of Historic Places, it’s a California Historical Landmark and a San Diego Historic Landmark.  It is one of two beachfront roller coasters still operating on the west coast.  The other being its sister coaster on the Santa Cruz Beach boardwalk.  Belmont has all the typical amusement park attractions that you’d expect to find…bumper cars, carousel, arcade games, laser tag, you get it.  They also have escape rooms with 3 different themes for you to see how slick you really are.  There’s zip lining, a rock wall, mini golf and sky ropes.  Needless to say, you’ll find all the shops and restaurants that go along with an amusement park.  Best thing?  Parking is free!

Mission Beach

Now if you go to Mission Beach get your water activity on you’ve got lots to choose from.  You’ve got surf lessons, jetskiing, kite surfing, stand up paddle boarding, wake boarding and probably lots more that you haven’t thought of but might like to try.

If you read my March post about whale watching you’ll know that San Diego is another California city that’s a good jumping off point to see the whales during their migration.  Many of the boat operators stationed along Mission Beach will offer whale watching tours during the migration season.  Be sure to check it out for timing.

Mission Bay

SeaWorld San Diego is located in Mission Bay.  I have personal issue with SeaWorld, but I wouldn’t be doing you justice if I didn’t make you aware that Mission Bay is where you’ll find it.

For my golfers, I’m directing you to the Mission Bay Golf Course and Practice Center .  It’s an 18 hole executive course and the only one in San Diego with night lighting.  And oh by the way, it’s where Tiger Woods won a junior world title.  Just thought you might like to know.

If you’re not comfortable with open water swimming, Mission Beach has got you covered.  Check out The Plunge San Diego. It’s the largest heated fresh water pool in Southern California.  It has everything you could possibly want in an indoor luxury swimming area.  When I say everything, I mean things like water obstacle courses, lap lanes, sauna, water polo cages, water aerobics, things like that.  If being in water is heaven to you, put The Plunge on your need to visit list.

Mission Beach is easily an all day adventure.  Go have some fun, soak up some sun, try and leave the sand at the beach.  Easier said than done!  You and I both know it’s going to get in your luggage, but it’s a small price to pay for a fantastic trip to San Diego.

Until next time,

May the road rise to meet you and the wind be at your back.