I absolutely adore San Diego. From beach to city, mountains to the sea, everything is spitting distance away. If I were ever planning to move out of Florida, I think it’s the first place I would consider.
San Diego is known for its beaches; it has 70 miles of them, after all. It doesn’t hurt that the weather in San Diego is nearly perfect year round. Not too hot, not too cold, and perfect for a day at the beach.
Carlsbad, Solana, and Point Loma are all great, but Mission Beach is one of my favorite spots. Mission Beach is such a cute little community. The drive over from downtown is drop-dead gorgeous, and there’s a big open field for picnics, frisbee, or other activities.
Belmont Park in Mission Beach
Belmont Park is an old-fashioned beachside amusement park, like the ones I used to visit in Myrtle Beach as a child. It is dominated by a huge wooden roller coaster (the best kind of coaster, if I may say so!) called The Giant Dipper. It’s a blast to ride and gives you great views…if you keep your eyes open, that is.
All in all, Belmont Park has about a dozen different amusement park rides. There’s also putt-putt, laser tag, a rock-climbing wall, a zipline, and other adventure activities.
If you’re in the mood for a bite or liquid refreshments, there are several restaurants to choose from. I’m a beer fanatic, so I like Draft. It has about 100 beers to choose from, including many drafts on tap.
However, if you love sushi, I have a better suggestion…
Mizu Sushi
My husband and I love a little restaurant called Mizu Sushi that looks right out over the green field with the roller coaster in the background. We picked up a couple of rolls last time we were in town together and they were yummy. It’s not a fancy place like you’ll find downtown, but the perfect mix of casual and delicious.
The flavors are spot-on and the fish, as you would expect, tastes deliciously fresh. And the serving staff was really nice as well.
If you’re spending time in San Diego, check out this list of things to do in San Diego. Several are close by, especially Sea World, which you’ll pass as you drive over to Mission Beach.
SeaWorld
OK I know I’m from Florida and I live an hour’s drive from Orlando, but I’m still a sucker for theme parks. And SeaWorld San Diego – which is in Mission Beach – was the very first SeaWorld! The original Shamu was the first killer whale brought to the parks way back in 1965. I know there’s a lot of debate over the ethics of marine-based mammals in captivity, but SeaWorld does a ton of work with conservation that makes me proud to support them…in California or Florida (or Texas or Abu Dhabi should I ever get there!)
Water Sports in Mission Bay
In Mission Bay you’re sure to find a water sport that draws your attention! If you want a thrill, try jet-skiing. Or for the more fitness-oriented, stand-up paddleboarding is loads of fun. You can even take sailing lessons! The angler in your family is sure to enjoy fishing charters, too.
Of course, San Diego itself has plenty to offer! So if, like me, you’re not local to the area, make sure to check out some of San Diego’s tourist attractions as well.
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