Many people love the great outdoors on the water for vacationing. Mission Bay has so much to offer that it is known as the “Aquatic Playground. If you love watersports, recreational activities & enjoy a coastal tropical vibe, then there’s something here for everyone at this world-class destination!
The best “bayfront” properties are the BAHIA RESORT & THE CATAMARAN RESORT HOTEL & SPA, both overlooking the water on private beaches, both with distinct & unique amenities. At the BAHIA RESORT, vacationers can enjoy the newly remodeled guest rooms & suites, as well as enjoy the signature, on-site restaurant DOCKSIDE 1953 while dining overlooking the water for breakfast, lunch or dinner. A favorite seafood dish is cioppino, an Italian American fish stew that originated in San Francisco, served with artisan bread which is ideal for dipping. There is also a full wine list to enjoy while sitting by the firepit overlooking the bay. In the evening, just outside your hotel room on the beach, is the BAYSIDE BONFIRES, complete with s’mores and concierge service. The private beach is well-groomed featuring beach chairs, large umbrellas and covered chaise lounge chair cabanas.
Across the bay is the Polynesian-inspired CATAMARAN RESORT HOTEL & SPA which is a tropical paradise with white sandy beaches, large guest rooms and suites which is conveniently located next to the Pacific Beach strand on the ocean. Guests are enthralled at the bird shows on property, featuring Chadwick the cockatoo & his five feathered friends, including colorful talkative parrots. The guest rooms are large to accommodate families with numerous amenities.
Also at the resort is The Catamaran Spa, San Diego’s only beachfront spa where “guests can indulge in a variety of therapies infused with ingredients sourced from beneath the waves”….including the Organic Seaweed Leaf Ritual treatment. My luxury spa day included a full-body aromatherapy relaxing body massage by Todd who indulged me with a guided meditation to enhance my overall wellbeing. Truly a unique experience with lasting affects!
At night guests can enjoy the Sunset Luaus & Hawaiian Buffet for a special entertaining experience. For exceptional on-site dining, visit OCEANA COASTAL KITCHEN which includes outdoor patio dining & provides impeccable services. According to Executive Chef Steven Riemer, “there’s a demand for ocean-oriented dishes. We strive to highlight the ingredients available here in Southern California…being certain that the seafood is sourced as locally and in-season as possible. “
Both resorts offer private white sandy beaches, luxury room service, sparkling pools, exotic common areas, poolside dining, jacuzzis and bell captain service. The picturesque scenery and year-round temperate weather creates the ideal environment for outdoor exercise in this Iconic waterfront city. www.bahiahotel.com , www.catamaranresort.com
A “must-see” attraction is a sight-seeing cruise on the BAHIA BELLE throughout the bay, inspired by turn-of-the century Mississippi style sternwheelers. Guests love the family hour & cocktails on board. www.bahiabelle.com
For more adventurous activities, both resorts feature ACTION SPORT RENTALS which allows you the ultimate “on-the-water” experiences! My new favorite activity is the Solar-powered FUN-CAT electric catamaran to cruise around the bay! With the flick of your fingers, you pilot the vessel to maneuver around the bay, feeling the fresh air & ocean breeze. Also available are motorboats, sailboats and party-deck boats with waterslides. Super fun! Other rentals include beach cruisers, bikes, e-bikes, children’s bikes, paddle boards & kayaks. All bike rentals include a lock & helmet. www.actionsportrentals.com
A “blast from the past” is the BELMONT AMUSEMENT PARK on the Oceanfront boardwalk which has been thrilling visitors since 1925. Come ride the Giant Dipper, a historic wooden roller coaster that ranks as one of the oldest in the United States. You may also remember the Krazy Kars, a classic bumper car ride from your past. As you stroll down the boardwalk, there are many neighboring local award-winning breweries & entertainment facilities. Mission Bay Park is the largest man-made park of its kind in the country, sprawling across more than 4,600 acres of roughly equal parts land and water.
So be adventurous and make memories for you & your loved ones at Mission Bay!
