The Mission Bay area of San Diego is full of attractions, including the quintessential amusement park that is Belmont Park. Add this to the beaches on the bay and oceanfront – where the surf meets the sand – and you have a recipe for endless fun. For those wanting a relaxing bucket-and-spade type of California vacation, the allure of golden sand beaches such as Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach and South Mission Bay Beach is enthralling – book a hotel in Belmont Park nearby on Culture Trip.
The Pearl Hotel
Hotel
The Pearl sits in an ideal location, not only a short distance from beaches but equally close to downtown. The property draws on the glamour of ’60s Palm Springs, marrying it with the groundbreaking design of ’70s Los Angeles and the relaxed ambience of San Diego’s Point Loma. There’s been a re-imagining of mid-century style that means the 23 guest rooms are contemporary in feel – in contrast to the 1960s architecture. Arrayed around the oyster-shaped pool with native plantings, everything flows into the on-site cocktail bar and Charles + Dinorah Restaurant.
Bahia Resort Hotel
Resort
On a 14-acre (6ha) peninsula in Mission Bay, the 313-room Bahia Resort sets itself apart from other properties with its lush tropical gardens, miles of sandy beach and exceptional vistas over the water. The changing colors of the sky as the sun sets over the Pacific form the perfect backdrop for a unique stay in one of its beachfront cottages, studios and large suites. On-site dining includes the Café Bahia, noted for its fresh flavors and international cuisine, and a spacious outdoor patio providing a superb location for bay views. The Tangier Bar whips up delicious cocktails, too.
Catamaran Resort Hotel
Resort, Hotel
This Polynesian-themed resort is just across the street from the ocean in San Diego’s Pacific Beach community, just 1.6mi (2.5km) from Belmont Park and 3mi (5km) from SeaWorld San Diego. Amenities include a relaxing pool, a rejuvenating hot tub that overlooks the bay and opportunities to paddleboard, bike or Segway. There is a casual elegance about the property, with palm trees, lush vegetation, tiki torches, koi ponds, waterfalls and tropical birds adding to the exotic display. Oceana Coastal Kitchen is the on-site upscale eatery offering fresh seafood and a cool ambience.
Pacific Terrace Hotel
Hotel
Perched on the sand overlooking the ocean, this hotel is perfectly located for those beach activities you love – including bike rides on the promenade, lounging on the sand or simply watching a gorgeous sunset from your balcony. Of course, there’s an attractive pool and hot tub on the premises when you tire of the beach, and if you’re around for happy hour, there are reduced prices on cocktails, beer and wine. Sips and snacks can be served poolside or in-room – and feature South of the Border tastes or healthy options such as hummus. Guest rooms have an island feel with dark wood, tropical-style furnishings and plush bathrobes for an extra cozy touch.
The Surfer Beach Hotel
Hotel
Another option in Pacific Beach near Belmont Park, this property is all about being just steps from the beach. This basic 53-room hotel has balconies for many of its guests and will even loan you beach gear such as surfboards and deck chairs. Not only do you have the proximity to surf and sand but also some of the greatest shopping and dining options of Pacific Beach – with restaurants like Chef Jun, Armonia Kitchen and Our Green Affair all popular choices with guests.
Become a Culture Tripper!
Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $300 on our unique trips.
Paradise Point Resort and Spa
Resort, Spa Hotel
There are 44 acres (18ha) for guests to explore in Mission Bay, and this resort has a special secluded spot perfect for a family or couple’s break. With 1mi (1.6km) of sandy bayfront beach, the proximity to the water goes without saying, but there are also five swimming pools, beach bonfire pits and a marina that offers a whole raft of recreation options. The 462 bungalow-style rooms include 73 hotel suites. Five dining venues provide plenty of variety with an international choice of fresh cuisine. But it is the proximity to downtown San Diego, Old Town, Belmont Park and SeaWorld that’s a terrific bonus.
San Diego Mission Bay Resort
Resort
Make this your home base for your beach holiday and you will not be disappointed. The poolside relaxation and water activities on this property are nearly endless, including being near the best beaches for surfing. Dining options are superb, including Covewood for dinner, Plaza del Sol for a cocktail, Mission Joe for coffee or a poolside treat at Solrisa. There’s a first-rate spa here, too, so if the sun and surf take their toll on your hair or body, come to this retreat for a luxurious treatment.
Tower 23 Hotel
Boutique Hotel
There may only be 44 rooms at this bijou property in Pacific Beach, but there’s no shortage of opulence and luxury. This lifestyle boutique hotel is right on the beach, so close that it’s named for the adjacent lifeguard station. The stylish high-end guest rooms offer pristine ocean views and a chance to watch spellbinding sunsets over the water. Meanwhile, JRDN restaurant offers the opportunity to enjoy fresh cuisine just steps from the sand – be sure to try the chili mango margarita.
If you click on a link in this story, we may earn affiliate revenue. All recommendations have been independently sourced by Culture Trip.