Mission Bay, San Diego’s water wonderland, offers plenty of awesome activities during the day. But the fun doesn’t stop when the sun sets. The 4,600-acre aquatic playground, the largest of its kind in the world, offers plenty of outdoor and exciting opportunities well into the night.
Before visiting, please check with each point of interest on their operating status based on Covid-19 safety requirements.
1. Have a Family Bonfire
Gather family and firewood for a cozy beach bonfire at one of the many pits along the beaches of Mission Bay and Fiesta Island. Snag a pit early in the day and enjoy the sunshine and calm bay waters. Once the sun begins to set, get the bonfire lit and gather around for a relaxing evening filled with warmth, smiles and plenty of s’mores.
2. SUP into the Night
Paddle into the night on a paddle board tour with Mission Bay Sportcenter using the Nocqua SUP lighting system. With the lights on, you’ll be able to see things you have never seen before like a whole array of wildlife that only comes out at night, while keeping track of your family as they join you on this unique night-time SUP adventures!
3. Kayak with an Underwater View
Paddle out on the peaceful waters of Mission Bay aboard neon-lit 2-person kayaks from See Bottom Kayaking. This one-of-a-kind outdoor experience is complete with the lit up strand, starry night sky, and smell of bonfires on the beach.
4. Tee Off with Nighttime Golf
Golf is a daytime activity almost everywhere in San Diego County. However, when you’re up for a round of golf after the sun has gone down, tee off at Mission Bay Golf Course. The facility is lit for night play, allowing golfers to hit balls at the driving range and play the course until 9:30 PM. The par-58 course, including four par-fours, is short enough that you don’t lose sight of your ball and long enough that it still represents a challenge.
5. Waterfront Dining under the Stars
When in Mission Bay, it doesn’t take long to walk from the water to a restaurant table! Cool off after a day in the sun with delectable dishes, local craft beers and incredible cocktails served on spacious, open-air patios at Oceana Coastal Kitchen, Red Marlin Restaurant Bar & Terraceand Barefoot Bar & Grill just to name a few.
6. Belmont Park
Looking for a little more action? Just a short walk away sits Belmont Park, San Diego’s waterfront amusement center for almost 100 years! Home to 12 thrilling rides, 6 adventurous attractions, and 3 oceanfront dining experiences, families can play well into the warm evenings with extended hours during the weekends.
7. Cruise Mission Bay
The grand tradition of Mississippi riverboats comes to life on Mission Bay aboard Bahia Belle Cruises. The sternwheeler Bahia Belle offers family-friendly sightseeing cruises for hotel guests for $10 per person. With departures from either the Bahia Resort Hotel or its sister property the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa, this relaxing boat cruise is a scenic way to spend an evening with friends or family.