Things to Do in Mission Bay

Thank you, Magen Shaw, for this INCREDIBLE list!!

Hotel Location & Nearby Attractions
When you stay at Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina in San Diego, you’ll be on the waterfront, a 3-minute drive from Mission Bay and 6 minutes from Mission Beach. This 4-star hotel is 7.5 mi (12 km) from San Diego Convention Center and 7.7 mi (12.4 km) from San Diego Zoo.

Popular Hotel Amenities and Features
Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages. You’re sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, which include 3 outdoor swimming pools, a health club, and a waterslide. Additional amenities at this hotel include concierge services, gift shops/newsstands, and wedding services.

Business, Other Amenities
Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Event facilities at this hotel consist of a conference center and meeting rooms. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.

Restaurants, Bars, Lounge & Dining options
Grab a bite to eat at Red Marlin, one of the hotel’s many dining establishments, which include 2 restaurants and a coffee shop/cafe. Relax with your favorite drink at the bar/lounge or the poolside bar. Full breakfasts are available daily from 7:30 AM to noon for a fee.

MISSION BAY

Activities:

Mission Bay Park: Enjoy water activities, picnics, and scenic views at this expansive park.
SeaWorld San Diego: Experience marine life, thrilling rides, and entertaining shows.
Belmont Park: Amusement park with a historic roller coaster and arcade games.
Mission Beach: Relax on the sandy shores, take a bike ride, or stroll along the boardwalk.
Jet Ski Rentals: Explore Mission Bay on a jet ski for an adventurous experience.
Aquatica San Diego: Water park with slides, wave pools, and family-friendly attractions.
Mission Bay Aquatic Center: Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or sailing with rentals and lessons available.
Mission Bay Golf Course: Enjoy a round of golf with scenic views of the bay.

Restaurants:

Oceana Coastal Kitchen: Contemporary seafood restaurant with bay views.
The Fishery: Seafood market and restaurant offering fresh catches and a sushi bar.
Cannonball: Rooftop sushi bar with panoramic ocean views.
PB Shore Club: Casual beachfront spot for drinks, food, and a lively atmosphere.
Saska’s Steak & Seafood: Classic steak and seafood restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.
Kono’s Cafe: Popular breakfast spot known for delicious pancakes and ocean views.
Cafe Bahia: Lakeside restaurant offering a diverse menu with Mediterranean influences.

These activities and restaurants provide a mix of relaxation, entertainment, and culinary delights, making your time near Mission Bay in San Diego enjoyable and memorable.

OLDTOWN

Activities:

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park: Explore historic buildings, museums, and learn about San Diego’s early days.
Heritage Park: Visit Victorian-era homes and gardens for a glimpse into San Diego’s past.
Whaley House Museum: Discover the history and alleged hauntings of this historic house.
Cygnet Theatre: Enjoy live performances in a cozy and intimate setting.
Bazaar del Mundo: Shop for unique crafts, jewelry, and art in this vibrant marketplace.
Presidio Park: Relax in a picturesque park with walking trails and views of the city.

Restaurants:

Cafe Coyote: Popular for its Mexican cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.
Old Town Mexican Cafe: Authentic Mexican dishes in a charming setting.
Cosmopolitan Hotel and Restaurant: Historic venue with a restaurant serving American and Mexican cuisine.
The Whiskey House: A whiskey lover’s paradise with a vast selection and pub-style fare.
Harney Sushi: Contemporary sushi spot with creative rolls and a lively ambiance.
Fred’s Mexican Cafe: Casual eatery offering Mexican classics and ocean views from the rooftop.
Casa Guadalajara: Colorful restaurant featuring a diverse menu of Mexican specialties.

Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, or culinary delights, Old Town in San Diego has a variety of activities and restaurants to offer, providing a rich and enjoyable experience.

DOWNTOWN & SAN DIEGO BAY

Activities:

USS Midway Museum: Explore the historic aircraft carrier and learn about naval aviation.
San Diego Harbor Cruise: Enjoy a scenic cruise around the harbor with stunning views of the city skyline.
Gaslamp Quarter: Experience the vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining in this historic district.
Balboa Park: Visit museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo in this expansive urban park.
Seaport Village: Stroll along the waterfront, shop for unique gifts, and enjoy street performers.
Petco Park: Catch a baseball game or attend events at this modern and iconic stadium.
San Diego Convention Center: Attend conventions, conferences, and events in this waterfront venue.
The New Children’s Museum: Engage in interactive and creative exhibits for kids of all ages.

Restaurants:

Juniper & Ivy: Innovative American cuisine in a stylish setting.
Carnitas’ Snack Shack: Casual eatery known for its delicious pork-centric dishes.
Water Grill: Upscale seafood restaurant offering a variety of fresh catches.
Hodad’s: Iconic burger joint with a laid-back beach vibe.
The Crack Shack: Trendy spot for fried chicken and inventive comfort food.
Puesto: Modern Mexican kitchen with creative tacos and a lively atmosphere.
Cafe 21: Farm-to-table restaurant with a diverse menu of global cuisines.
Bali Hai Restaurant: Polynesian-inspired dining with waterfront views and tiki-themed cocktails.

Downtown San Diego offers a mix of cultural attractions, waterfront activities, and a diverse culinary scene, making it a dynamic and exciting area to explore.

North Park/South Park and Balboa Park

Activities:

San Diego Zoo: Explore one of the most famous zoos in the world, located within Balboa Park.
Balboa Park Museums: Visit numerous museums, including the San Diego Museum of Art, Museum of Photographic Arts, and more.
Botanical Building and Gardens: Admire the stunning botanical collections and the historic building.
Japanese Friendship Garden: Experience the tranquility of this beautiful garden showcasing Japanese flora and design.
Spanish Village Art Center: Browse through art galleries and studios featuring works by local artists.
Balboa Park Trails: Take a leisurely walk or hike on the park’s trails, enjoying nature and scenery.
Spreckels Organ Pavilion: Attend a free organ concert in this outdoor pavilion featuring the world’s largest outdoor pipe organ.
Balboa Park Explorer Pass: Purchase a pass for unlimited access to participating museums and attractions.
Balboa Park Golf Course: Play a round of golf with scenic views of the city.
North Park Main Street: shop for vintage finds, boutique items and unique gifts,.
North Park Observatory: Catch live music performances in this iconic venue.
Ray Street Arts District: Explore galleries and art studios showcasing local talent.

Restaurants:

Prado at Balboa Park: Fine dining in a historic setting, offering a diverse menu with indoor and outdoor seating.
Panama 66: Casual eatery with a creative menu, craft beers, and outdoor seating next to the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park.
The Tea Pavilion: Enjoy traditional Japanese tea and snacks in a serene garden setting overlooking the Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park.
Cafe Mingei: Casual cafe inside the Mingei International Museum, serving sandwiches, salads, and more.
Urban Solace: A popular spot for comfort food with a Southern twist.
Modern Times Flavordome: Brewery with a tasting room offering a variety of craft beers.
Kindred: A vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurant with a unique atmosphere.
Hamilton’s Tavern: A historic bar, known for its craft beer selection and pub-style food.

Balboa Park provides a rich cultural and recreational experience with its museums, gardens, and diverse dining options, making it a must-visit destination in San Diego. North Park and South Park offer a mix of cultural activities, outdoor spaces, and a diverse culinary scene, making them vibrant and enjoyable places to explore in San Diego.