Mission Bay

Mission Bay is the largest facility of its kind in the world at 4,600 acres and offers many free recreational activities for visitors, locals and serves as a refuge for wildlife in seven wildlife preserves.

The early explorer, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo named Mission Bay “False Bay” in 1542, when he discovered a vast tidal marsh that would sometimes confuse sailors into believing it was the larger San Diego Bay to the south.

There are quite a few water activities on Mission Bay Park’s 27 miles of bayfront and 17 miles of oceanfront beaches. There is are separate designated areas for fishing, swimming, sailing and power boating. Free sporting events at Mission Bay include professional volleyball, jetski, over-the-line, and waterski competitions and exhibitions. Rent a sailboat and cruise the bay or bicycle around the bay on bike paths that wind for miles.

Vacation rentals are available in all 3 communities with more laid back accommodations in Mission Beach and Pacific Beach. Moderately priced and luxury accommodations are found in Mission Bay.

Attractions

The famous SeaWorld San Diego theme park resides at Mission Park and offers a number of attractions like San Diego’s Killer Whale family, the Dolphin Discovery, Sea Lion and Otter Show, R.L. Stine’s Haunted Lighthouse, Forbidden Reef, Tide Pols, Rockey Point Preserve and Se Lion Feeder Pool.

Parking

Mission Bay has picnic shelters, barbecues, showers, and public restrooms. Lifeguards are only seasonal and watch between spring and November. There is lots of free parking at Mission Bay and will fill up quickly during the summer, so it’s best to come early.

Directions

From the North or South, Take I-5 to East Mission Bay Drive, Grand Avenue, Clairemont Drive or Sea World Exits.

Tips

Mission Bay offers some of the best riding in San Diego. There are miles of paved bike paths, accessible from many of the parking lots. If you want to rent a bicycle or surfboard, check out Cheap Rentals at 3685 Mission Boulevard and offer competitive rental prices year around.

Families can enjoy the calm and protected waters of Mission Bay. Children can splash around without the danger of ocean surf. Mission Bay offers miles of sandy beaches.