Fun Things to Do in Mission Beach & Pacific Beach

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San Diego’s Mission Beach and Pacific Beach are two of the most popular coastal destinations, offering everything from beachfront activities to lively nightlife. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, great dining, or a fun night out, these neighboring beach towns have something for everyone. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Mission Beach and Pacific Beach.

1. Relax on the Beach

Both Mission Beach and Pacific Beach offer wide sandy shores perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and playing beach volleyball.

• Mission Beach: A laid-back, family-friendly spot with gentle waves.

  • Guide to Mission Beach

• Pacific Beach: A lively scene with surfers, beachgoers, and a vibrant boardwalk.

  • Guide to Pacific Beach

• Best Tip: Arrive early to grab a prime beach spot, especially on weekends.

2. Walk or Bike the Oceanfront Boardwalk

The scenic Ocean Front Walk stretches for over 3 miles, connecting Mission Beach to Pacific Beach. Rent a bike, skateboard, or just take a stroll while enjoying the ocean views.

• Bike Rentals: Check out Ray’s Rentals or Boardwalk Electric Rides.

• Pro Tip: Sunset rides along the boardwalk are unforgettable.

Boardwalk in Pacific Beach

3. Experience Belmont Park

Located in Mission Beach, Belmont Park is a historic beachfront amusement park with exciting attractions, such as rides, theme park games, shops, and plenty of food.

• Pro Tip: Visit in the evening to see the park lit up beautifully.

4. Surfing & Water Sports

Mission Beach and Pacific Beach are prime locations for surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

• Best Surf Spots:

  • Tourmaline Surf Park (PB) – Great for beginners and longboarders.

  • South Mission Beach – Less crowded, fun for bodyboarding.

• Rentals & Lessons: 

  • Private Surf Lessons 

  • Group Surf Lessons

  • 5 Day Adult Surf Retreat

• Pro Tip: Early mornings offer the best waves and fewer crowds.

Surfing in Pacific Beach

5. Enjoy the Nightlife & Bars

Pacific Beach is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with beachfront bars and lively clubs.

• Best Bars & Lounges:

  • Mavericks Beach Club – Spacious outdoor area with live music.

  • PB Shore Club – Famous for their Red Bull Vodka Slushies.

  • Waterbar – Oceanfront dining with craft cocktails.

• Pro Tip: Weekday happy hours offer great deals on food and drinks.

6. Explore Crystal Pier

This historic wooden pier in Pacific Beach offers stunning ocean views and a peaceful walk over the water.

• Fun Fact: The pier is home to Crystal Pier Hotel, with charming overwater cottages.

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a quiet, scenic stroll, or sunset to watch the sun go down! It's also fun to watch the surfers from the pier.

7. Play Beach Volleyball

Join a friendly game of volleyball on Mission Beach, where nets are set up for public use.

• Best Spots:

  • South Mission Beach has the most competitive games.

Crystal Pier at Sunset

8. Go Whale Watching

The waters off the San Diego coast are great for spotting dolphins and migrating whales or cruising along the water.

• Best Whale Watching Tours:

  • Group Whale Watching Tour 

  • Private Whale Watching Tour 

• Pro Tip: Winter and spring are the best times for whale watching.

See our Guide to Whale Watching in San Diego for more information on whale watching and wildlife tours in San Diego.

9. Rent a Boat or Take a Sunset Cruise

• Best Boating Tours & Rentals:

  • San Diego Sunset Cruise from Mission Bay

  • 3-hour Mission Bay Cruise

  • Rent Your Own Sailboat or Power Boat

• Pro Tip: Schedule your rental or tour in the first half of the day or in the evening for calmer waters.

Mission Bay Boating

10. Visit Mission Bay Park

Just a short walk from Mission Beach, Mission Bay Park is a great place for paddleboarding, kayaking, and picnicking.

• Top Activities:

  • Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard

    • single, tandem, or clear bottom kayak rentals

  • Have a picnic at Crown Point Park.

  • Try jet skiing at Mission Bay Sportscenter.

  • Snorkel Mission Bay with a Marine Biologist

    • Mission Bay Snorkel Tour

• Best Tip: Mornings are calmest for paddleboarding and kayaking.

See our Guide to Mission Bay for more on visiting the bay.

Mission Bay at Sunrise

Final Thoughts

Mission Beach and Pacific Beach are packed with activities, whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or nightlife. From surfing and biking to delicious eats and lively bars, these iconic San Diego beach towns have something for everyone. Plan your visit, soak up the sun, and enjoy the best of San Diego’s coast!