Mission Bay
Located just minutes from downtown is San Diego’s water wonderland, Mission Bay Park. The 4,600-acre aquatic playground is the largest of its kind in the world. Surrounded by 27 miles of meandering shoreline, with a variety of waterways, inlets and islets to explore, Mission Bay is bordered by several beach communities, each with its own distinct vibe. You will quickly discover that this bustling bay area is action-packed from sun up to sundown.
Here you can enjoy water sports activities of every kind. From sailing lessons, kite surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding, to jet skiing, wakeboarding and everything in between, there’s something for every age and skill level to enjoy in the water. You can also take a moonlit cruise on Bahia Belle, a sternwheeler fashioned after a Mississippi riverboat that often features live music. On land, families can rent bikes, picnic, and barbecue or celebrate with bonfires right next to the water. Accommodations in the area are plentiful, from high-end luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels. Mission Bay is also home to SeaWorld San Diego, the world-famous marine life adventure park. With awe-inspiring shows, thrilling rides and unforgettable face-to-face animal encounters, kids of all ages will enjoy exploring the wonders and adventures of the sea. If sportfishing is your passion, a number of operators depart from Mission Bay with options for half-day, full-day and multi-day trips. During the twice-yearly seasons, many of these same boats also offer whale watching tours.