Mission Beach spans nearly 2 miles of ocean between Mission Bay to the east and Pacific Beach to the north. Filled with upscale, pastel-colored homes and condos, with a measure of old-style cottages and beach apartments, it’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

The boardwalk at Mission Beach offers some of the best people watching in all of San Diego! Joggers, bicyclists, roller bladers, and casual strollers contrast with the local flavor, which features lots of tattoos, piercings, and exotic pets.

This place is a real scene most weekends. Locals in particular enjoy this beach, which teems with both land and water activities.

Getting There
Take Highway 8 west and follow the signs to West Mission Bay Drive.

More serious bike riders can begin at Mission Beach on the boardwalk and continue all the way to La Jolla. (Although the boardwalk ends at the north end of Pacific Beach, you can follow the bike route all the way to downtown La Jolla.)

For more information about local bike routes, visit the San Diego Bicycle Education and Advocacy Group. For surfboard, bicycle, or other gear rentals at Mission Beach, we recommend Cheap Rentals at 3685 Mission Boulevard. They offer the most competitive rental prices around without sacrificing service.

Considering its modest size, the Big Dipper rollercoaster is not for the faint of heart. Severe gyrations and turns followed by rapid descents make for a hair-raising ride — it’s not advised for anyone with physical limitations that would be aggravated by sudden and severe movement.

Mission Boulevard (two blocks east of the beach) has taco shops, coffee houses, fast food chains, breakfast joints, and some ethnic food. You’ll find plenty of options for breakfast, lunch, and casual dinner here.

San Diego travel
    guide

San Diego

Getting around and info

Cafes, restaurants

Nightlife

Anza-Borrego Desert
Balboa Park

San Diego Zoo (coming soon)

Downtown and Coronado
Hillcrest, Ocean Beach, Point Loma

Mission bay, Pacific Beach, Mission Beach, La Jolla

Old Town and Presidio
Tijuana

La Jolla Beaches

San Diego golf

San Diego Museums

Mission Beach
Surfing, Kayaking
Kids
Travel practicalities

Hotels in San Diego

Travelodge

Days Inn - Get our guaranteed best available rates in San Diego

Ramada - Best rates available in San Diego


Vacation rental