Mission Beach in San Diego: Things To Do and See

Do you love the beach? One beach I recommend checking out if you visit San Diego is Mission Beach. Every summer thousands of tourists and locals alike flock to Mission Beach for a day of fun, activity, and relaxation. Of all the beaches in San Diego, this one buzzes with activity as surfers, bikers, and skaters make their way up and down the cement boardwalk. And for all you love birds, it's also a great place for a romantic getaway!

Early mornings at Mission Beach are beautiful, but generally it is overcast with morning mist and fog covering the area. You'll find people running up and down the beach in the early morning. During certain times of the year you will find many sea shells washed up on the shore. It's a great time to pick up shells if you have a collection!

One of the big and unique attractions to Mission Beach is Belmont Park, an amusement center where you can ride the historic Giant Dipper Roller Coaster. Belmont Park is just a few steps from the beach, so you're sure to find something to do. There are also many other rides for the whole family including bumper cars, the Liberty Carousel, and even a video and game arcade. If you're a visitor to San Diego, there are a few gift shops to buy souvenirs at Belmont Park.

Because San Diego is home to a few colleges and universities, you'll also find many of the students that live in the many cottages and apartments in the area surrounding Mission Beach. And where there are students, there are quite a few pubs and bars! Along Mission Boulevard, which is just a block from the beach, you'll find little hangouts to sit, relax, have a couple drinks, and do some people watching.

If you're into outdoor activities and sports, you can play volleyball on the beach, ride your bike, go surfing, roller blade, or skate up and down the boardwalk. There are a few places that offer bikes, surf boards, or rollerblade rentals.

However, if you simply prefer to walk around and go shopping, you can walk up Mission Boulevard where there are locally owned clothing boutiques, cafes, and smoke shops. You can even take a break and enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the coffee shops.

When it's time to grab a bit to eat, there are a few restaurants right Mission beach including Canes Bar & Grill and Wavehouse. However, if you decide to bring your own food, you can enjoy a nice picnic on the grassy areas by the beach. There is also a big park right across the street from Belmont Park where you can lay out a blanket and just enjoy the warm and sunny San Diego weather.

Oh, and what's a beautiful day at the beach without a gorgeous sunset? Watching the sun come down on the horizon is a beautiful sight - not to mention a romantic way to end the day. You'll often see couples walking hand in hand walking along the boardwalk and simply enjoying each other's company.

However, the fun doesn't end when the sun comes down! Belmont Park usually stays open late during the summer. Many of the youngsters hang out while others start to make their way up Mission Boulevard to Pacific Beach, which is only a five minute drive away. However, if you're still in a romantic mood, why not hang out on the beach, have a bonfire and watch the ocean waves roll in? On a clear night the thousands of stars shine bright and the scenery is just breathtaking. You can see all the city lights along the shore all the way up to La Jolla.

As you can see, there is no shortage of things to do at Mission Beach. Whether it's riding the roller coaster, going for a bike ride on the boardwalk, or just enjoying the gorgeous sunset, there's something for everyone!