Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Mission Bay Park

    4.4 (329 reviews)
    Open • 4:00 am - 10:00 pm
    Updated over 3 months ago

    Mission Bay Park Photos

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Mission Bay Park

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Basketball court
    Jiansen W.

    It's funday Sunday at Mission Bay Park where there's plenty of sandy beach, bay water, and grass for everyone to enjoy. Plenty of folks are out here under tree-lined bayside beaches, shooting hoops on basketball courts, having picnics on benches/under shaded canopies, playing sports, relaxing on acres of grass, walking dogs, riding bikes, paddling on a board, and zooming through the bay on personal water crafts. Parking is plentiful and accessible.

    View from Bay Park, San Diego above Mission Bay.
    Budd B.

    My absolute favorite spot in San Diego to stay, play and enjoy the outdoors, restaurants and activities!

    Leslie B.

    Mission Bay Park is truly a staple in San Diego. It is like a playground for all ages. Recently, in my training for a marathon, I have been to Mission Bay Park at least twice a week, so I felt it was a good time to write this review. Mission Bay Park is huge, so there are a variety of different areas, with various activities to enjoy. First, I run there all the time. There is one trail that is just over eight miles, and another just over 12 that are both loops, which I much prefer to out and back runs. Fiesta Island, known for the off leash dog area, offers runs of approximately 5 miles or 3 miles. Mission Bay Park is really beautiful, with a variety of vegetation and many different types of birds. I love the wildflowers in late April. They are truly a sight to see! Through the years, I have gone to bonfires, gone windsurfing, floated around on the bay, had several picnics, taken my dog to run loose on Fiesta Island, and simply sat admiring the water and the sky. There are several restaurants and hotels just the other side of the walking/running trail with views of the bay to enjoy. I have been to a few weddings in Mission Bay park, a couple of birthday parties, and have been many times for other functions such as concerts, or alumni events. I sure hope the City of San Diego continues to uphold fire pits for the public as I heard they are trying to remove them. I also do wish they would change the hours when dogs are allowed. After all, how can we really enjoy the outdoors without our best friends? If you are visiting San Diego, I highly recommend you visit Mission Bay Park... and check out various locations of the park. It is one of the very best attractions in San Diego.

    Julia G.

    Went kite flying on a beautiful breezy and sunny Sunday afternoon. People were in the water, kayaking, swimming, BBQing, on boats, walking, strolling, on picnic tables, celebrating, laying on blankets, and sitting in the sun. Then there was me and my friend with smiles on our faces as we got our butterfly kites up high in the air! Yay!

    Post brunch walk
    Miori I.

    Mission Bay holds a lot of nostalgia for my husband and I. When in our dating phase, our first weekend getaway together was here and we had great conversations about our future walking along the paths. We were in town from LA for the weekend, had just had a big brunch nearby, and found our way to the Bay Park. We had only intended on walking a mile or two but we got to reminiscing and talking, just as we did almost 8 years ago. Our brunch walk, turned into a 6 mile walk with a sunset ending. I'm not mad about it at all. Beautiful park and bay with several activities taking place. I had no idea there was a winery/restaurant. We will be back to hang out there next time.

    Cute little crabs  along shore rocks

    This was a great park to hang out on Easter after brunch and enjoy a gorgeous day by the water relaxing and taking in the sun. We spent some good time just taking in the sun and watching the tide splash againt the rocks. It was a great time and super easy to find park and just enjoy a few hours away from crowds at the beach . We caught some cute little crabs crawling up the rocks too. Parking was easy and the water is low enough fo walk in knee deep and also do some paddleboardibg. Had an amazing day Easter weekend.

    Andrew W.

    It's a great place to walk around and getting refreshed!! It's just a beautiful place and you'll definitely enjoy this area! I was here for the sake of SeaWorld and had a great time there! Be there earlier to enjoy to the max! Bring your friends and family and have a great time there! Cheers

    The parking lot looks pretty Western and in need of TLC, but the area is great if you don't mind leaving your car?
    Matthew A.

    Lunchtime and much needed nature immersion! Today took me too this park right off the 805 Freeway. I just needed some sunshine and really wanted a moment to recharge with my Vons Onion Hoagie, homemade vegan Tomato soup, and crunchy baby carrots! Best unpaid 30 minutes, I've had in a while! Anyway, when the sun is out and there is a cool breeze, this place shimmers, with a quaint presentation of the rippling and calming Bay. If you want to experience another area most do not know. This is definitely a lucky break, but I say most may not know, because the parking area was empty midday. (Possibly the fact I went during a weekday) Unfortunately my smile went away when I was forced to catch a whiff mid-bite of smoke. Ehh.. it happens, so, not a mood-ruined moment. I was a little on the weary side, only because I was over dressed due to being in at work. So, I spent the better part of my meal and soaking of sun calming my nerves and occasionally checking my car. It doesn't hurt to be cautious. There plenty of space to run, walk, fly a kite, throw a frisbee, picnic, ramp for your water vessels, and bathrooms that are attended by the city park attendants. Places like these are great, but a caution to the tell, they are widely used, but if you're there for a positive experience, you're able to make one. Be weary the roads and parking lot, they appear to be in disrepair, a little old and worn with softball deep size pot holes. But if you are smart and lucky, you're able to traverse without too much trouble and the sunshine and green grass will erase any irritation or discomfort. Oh just remember the pot holes are still there when you're leaving too.

    I'm blessed to live across the street from Bay park! My doggo appreciates fiesta island too! Sometimes I just hop in jeep with tea and cruise the island see what everyone's doing.

    No sun, no problem
    Arnel D.

    Worth the price of admission! Free99... With tons of parking and clean restrooms, it's an ideal spot to have a relaxing bbq. You can easily see baby showers, birthday parties and even small weddings here on any given day. With the water as a beautiful backdrop, it's easy to see why it is such a popular spot for locals to tourists to visit. I used to frequent this place often as a child when my uncle had his boat. It's nice to see people enjoying their water sports including kayaks and paddle boards. If the water isn't for you but you still want to put in a workout, you can easily walk jog or even rode a bike here on their paved walkways. I plan to visit more often now that I have my own children. Maybe I'll see you there!?

    Kiddos having a blast
    Heliana M.

    What a beautiful park. In SD for a short vacation and enjoying all the lovely places we are experiencing. This park is simply gorgeous. Beautiful landscape and so well designed for the little ones. Ample slides, swings, climbing opportunities, pretend play, green grass areas and of course the beach. Spoiled for choice. Bathrooms quite clean and there is an area with sinks to wash the Lil ones afterwards and change them. Had a great time. Our children had an amazing time playing non stop. Beautiful. Recommend for all kids to visit :)

    Eva G.

    Love this place. Can get crowded but that's not surprising. The view is beautiful and tranquil. A great place to have a BBQ and hang out with friends. I like this place to take nice long walks and soak up the sun and the views of the water. It's a pet friendly place too.

    Dulce R.

    Amazing peaceful serene views? Then you have come to the right place! This was my go-to when I first moved to San Diego back in 2007, I would come here as my stress-reliever. You will see people running, biking, roller blading, walking and playing in the sand to flying kites. You can also release your boat at the dock. Parking can be somewhat tricky during the summer months but today was a perfect 80 degrees for February and while somewhat busy - it is not half as busy as it would be on a Saturday in June. The great thing is you can come here anytime of year and it is beautiful with hotels nearby, PB nearby and best of all - this is free - so bring your friends for a BBQ, bring your family for some fun or come here by yourself to get away from it all! You can also get a permit for larger events and groups to reserve the area around Mission Bay Park. If you haven't been here and you've visited or lived in San Diego, you are missing out!

    See all

    5 months ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 3
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Karla D.
    279
    4041
    24587

    2 months ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 2
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 19
    Thanks 7
    Love this 25
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 2
    Love this 3
    Oh no 1
    Photo of John S.
    890
    3004
    4462

    1 year ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 5
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Miori I.
    1731
    607
    13905

    2 years ago

    Helpful 13
    Thanks 3
    Love this 12
    Oh no 1

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jan T.
    0
    23
    0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Andrew W.
    138
    1263
    20170

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kevin B.
    66
    4900
    480

    10 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 1
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 2
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Eva G.
    213
    1236
    12178

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Dulce R.
    1268
    1025
    10690

    4 years ago

    Helpful 27
    Thanks 2
    Love this 27
    Oh no 1

    6 years ago

    Helpful 12
    Thanks 0
    Love this 12
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Sergio D.
    5
    635
    1528

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 5
    Oh no 1

    4 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1
    Photo of John H.
    159
    1792
    9179

    5 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 1

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jimmy J.
    89
    145
    74

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ben A.
    4995
    1742
    5089

    9 years ago

    Helpful 9
    Thanks 0
    Love this 7
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Amber D.
    164
    105
    289

    5 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 1
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 9

    Ask the Community - Mission Bay Park

    Do they gave fire pits to grill already at the park or do i have to bring my own?

    They have some but their condition is questionable. I'd bring my own.

    Do they have Pickelball?

    No I have not seen any! Only those that set up volleyball on the sand.

    Are the restrooms still open despite our current COVID situation?

    Can you have a bbq over there?

    Yes, you may BBQ at Mission Bay Park, please dispose of coals at one of the hot coal containers provided at many of the picnic areas. Practice safe distancing and weat a mask when visiting the park. Keep your gathering limited to household family… 

    How early should I go save a spot for a birthday party?

    If it's on the weekend, I'd say by 9am of you want the chance of any tables

    Can you bring a raft?

    Yes, rafts are allowed at Mission Bay

    Does anyone know if you can do long term RV parking here?

    No overnight camping or parking allowed at Mission Bay Park, strictly enforced. Most parking lots close at 10pm daily.

    View All 11 Questions

    Review Highlights - Mission Bay Park

    “Plenty of parking on both sides of the bridge, and great grassy spots to put up tents and set up BBQs.”

    Mentioned in 9 reviews

    Read more highlights

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Parks 8,650 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Balboa Park - Outside the Botanical Garden

    Balboa Park

    4.8(2.9k reviews)
    5.4 mi•Balboa Park

    My wife wanted to stopped by here the moment we arrived to San Diego. We been here before like five…read moreyears ago when we first started dating. There different parking lot you can park at but I chose the parking lot near the Organ Pavilion area. Since we came before lunch time, I was able to find a good spot and you'll have to pay for parking here. My wife wanted to check out the Botanical Garden building first and then we went to the Art Center so my wife can shop over there. We also saw a long line of people looking to buy plants at Casa Del Prado. We didn't stay long because the sun was starting to come out and our daughter was getting fussy.

    Balboa Park is one of my favorite places to visit in San Diego. Every time I come down here to…read morevisit my daughter who is studying in San Diego, I try to stop by if I have some free time just to walk around and relax. This place is more than just a park. I really enjoy the beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and unique Spanish style architecture. The area around the California Tower is especially beautiful. Walking around here and taking in the peaceful atmosphere is always a nice experience. I usually park in one of the parking lots inside the park (around $10). If you are lucky, you may find free parking in the surrounding areas, but honestly, parking can be difficult, especially on busy days. What I like most about Balboa Park is that you don't need to visit all the museums to enjoy this place. You can simply walk around, enjoy the gardens, take pictures, and relax. One thing to keep in mind is that the park is very large. If you don't plan ahead, you may end up walking more than expected. But that is also what makes this place special , every visit gives you a chance to see something different.

    Photos
    Balboa Park - Wedding at Balboa Park

    Wedding at Balboa Park

    Balboa Park - Nativity Display

    Nativity Display

    Balboa Park - PostSecrets (artist invited people to write secrets on post cards, you could submit yours at the end too!)

    See all

    PostSecrets (artist invited people to write secrets on post cards, you could submit yours at the end too!)

    La Jolla Shores - Thanksgiving '25

    La Jolla Shores

    4.4(572 reviews)
    5.3 mi•La Jolla Shores, La Jolla

    This beach along with the adjacent Kellogg Park made for a lovely stop during our recent visit to…read moreSan Diego and La Jolla. The parking lot did not have space available on a Monday afternoon, but we found free street parking in the neighborhood a couple blocks away. Restrooms and wash stations were located near the playground and grassy field, and lifeguards were on duty with the beach crowd stretching for miles on this warm summer afternoon. We walked toward the sand castle house and settled where it was a little more secluded from all the loud families with kids near the main park. And the water was nice and warm with gentle waves as we swam and waded along the shore to cool off from the humidity and heat of the sun. We also relaxed and napped on our beach mat while picnicking in the sand under the shade of an umbrella we brought, a life saver with the sunshine beaming from above. The La Jolla Underwater Park and Ecological Reserve are cool features to this beach area as well, though snorkeling gear is helpful for exploring in more depth. They seem to offer kayak rentals on site too, with plenty of visitors enjoying watersports while we were there. The place was more congested than we had hoped on a weekday, but all in all, we still had a good time.

    Had to squeeze one last beach trip in before heading to the airport! I was visiting early August…read moreand read that this time of year friendly leopard sharks come up to shallow water for breeding season so I had to check it out! I heard a good spot was near the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club near The Marine Room and this turned out to be true! Took my snorkel gear and saw a ton of leopard sharks and stingrays so close to the beach! There was plenty of people around and lots of groups trying to catch a glimpse of the leopard sharks as well. The beach had a ton of people but it was very safe. There was a long wall where people were leaving some belongings while they were in the water so I also left my towel, shoes, etc there and I had no issues with my stuff even though I was by myself so I didn't have anyone to watch it. I also lucked out and got a parking spot right in front of the beach even though cars were circling quite a bit to find spots. I actually was going straight from the beach to the airport so I had my suitcase and all my belongings in the trunk of my car and it was safe while I was at the beach all day (a miracle for someone coming from the Bay Area LOL). The beach also had lots of rinse of stations so I was able to rinse off, get dry, change, and head to the airport!

    Photos
    La Jolla Shores - La Jolla Shores

    La Jolla Shores

    La Jolla Shores - La Jolla Shores

    La Jolla Shores

    La Jolla Shores - La Jolla Shores

    See all

    La Jolla Shores

    Black's Beach - Cliffs down to the beach

    Black's Beach

    4.4(492 reviews)
    7.2 mi•La Jolla Shores

    TikTok took me to Blacks Beach for a hike and I had no idea what I signed up for…read more The hike itself was actually scary but so fun. We took the route that involved a little rock climbing, super slippery paths, and at one point we literally crossed a narrow plank with ropes and I was questioning my life choices lol. But once we finally got down to the beach... wow. I was SO excited. All that hard work actually paid off. The beach was beautiful and it felt so rewarding getting there. Then we started walking further down and suddenly... I realized there were a bunch of completely naked people everywhere. I had NO idea Blacks Beach was a nude beach. I was shocked for like 2 seconds and then started laughing because out of all the things I expected after surviving that hike... that was not one of them. 10/10 experience. Scary, fun, unexpected, and definitely memorable.

    A great place to be on a sunny day. The hike down the cliff is a bit of a hike but well worth it…read moreand actually its a fantastic leg workout. The beach is really clean with most beach goers carrying there picnic trash back up. Volley ball games usually take place in the summer. The views are not to be missed. The sun reflecting on the water in the late afternoons is mesmerizing so bring your best sun glasses & suntan lotions. For the shy person the RIGHT side as you climb down the cliff facing the water is for those who prefer bathing suits, Speedos & bikinis. To the LEFT side of the beach facing the water is clothing optional. Usually its a bit farther. Great that nobody bothers you & its a safe space for that all over tan. Sometimes beverages are sold on the beach discreetly, however, I'd recommend bringing your own & lots of water. Its a good idea toto bring food, snacks, fruit and sandwiches... insect repellant if needed. *True, sometimes it is a bit overcast so its best to check the weather report before leaving. *Free parking is available above the beach. Please be considerate while parking in an organized fashion in consideration of others. Thanks. Enjoy the beach & surf!!

    Photos
    Black's Beach - Gliders over the beach

    Gliders over the beach

    Black's Beach - Cliffs overlooking the beach

    Cliffs overlooking the beach

    Black's Beach

    See all

    Windansea Beach

    Windansea Beach

    4.7(231 reviews)
    5.0 mi•La Jolla

    Sandy beach La Jolla…read moreHidden gem Small parking Residential area Small beach Waves crashing rocks Step by rip No restrooms No trash cans Walking with views on top Sun bathing beach and rocks Lifeguards durin

    I visited Windansea Beach for a friend's go away party, and it completely lived up to its…read morereputation. I even conducted a survey at a Super Bowl party, and Windansea Beach came out on top as the most-loved beach among the locals. I truly enjoyed strolling along the coastline and taking in the beauty of Windansea Beach. While sitting on a bench, I had the pleasure of meeting a lovely couple, and we struck up a wonderful conversation. We all shared the same feeling -- this beach has something truly special about it. It's the kind of place that creates a connection, not just with nature, but also with the people who appreciate its unique charm. Unlike many traditional sandy beaches, Windansea's rocky shoreline gives it a unique character. Walking along the coast, watching waves crash against the rocks, and seeing surfers embrace the powerful ocean made the experience unforgettable. I've visited countless beaches around the world, and Windansea Beach easily ranks among my top 10 favorites. From the moment I arrived, I could feel a different kind of energy. I feel lucky that I can drive to this beautiful beach any day. Counting my blessings. I took off one star because the parking situation was not ideal. Finding a spot can be challenging. The traffic is also a problem. It is all worth it though.

    Photos
    Windansea Beach - My daughters & Goddaughter enjoying that SD beach life

    My daughters & Goddaughter enjoying that SD beach life

    Windansea Beach
    Windansea Beach - Enjoy life

    See all

    Enjoy life

    Mission Bay Park - parks - Updated September 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...