Mission and Pacific Beach offer an incredible variety of date spots, from intimate speakeasies and beachside bonfires to lively bars and unique local experiences. Whether you’re planning a quick outing or an all-day adventure, these spots will help you squeeze in the perfect date, no matter the time or budget. Here’s your complete guide to the best date ideas in the area, perfect for couples looking to explore, relax, and have some fun!
Kick off your date with a classic beachside experience at Beach House in Mission Beach. Rent beach cruisers and ride along the boardwalk, soaking in the vibrant beach scene. After your ride, grab a seat at their beachfront bar, where you can enjoy a refreshing cocktail and some delicious bites while taking in the ocean views. Beach House offers plenty of seating, live music & DJs, and a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for any carefree day or evening.
Locals only tip: a little known fact about this spot is that you don’t even need to go inside to enjoy it. Locals often gather on the boardwalk in front of the Beach House to people-watch, vibe to the music, dance and hang out. It’s a party atmosphere on the boardwalk, especially in the late afternoon as the day cools down and the beach fills up. Join the fun without spending a dime!
Address: 3125 Ocean Front Walk, San Diego, CA 92109
For a more sophisticated evening, head to The Grass Skirt, an upscale tiki-themed speakeasy hidden behind Good Time Poke. Enter through the kitchen and be transported to a tropical paradise, complete with dim lighting, gorgeous tiki drinks, and stunning decor. The Grass Skirt offers a sleek vibe that’s perfect for couples who want to escape into a relaxed yet upbeat atmosphere. Try one of their perfectly mixed cocktails and dive into their small bites menu for the full date night experience.
Right next door, you’ll find Captain’s Quarters, a more intimate and nautical themed speakeasy that’s perfect for a romantic nightcap. The dark, cozy ambiance and premium cocktails make it a great spot to wind down the evening. It’s the perfect balance of fun and refinement, giving you two unique date vibes in one cool spot.
Address: 910 Grand Ave, San Diego, CA 92109
If you and your partner are into games and dancing, Break Point is the perfect place to bring a little energy to your date. This spacious venue features a mix of activities, including bowling lanes, pool tables, and plenty of space for dancing. Break Point hosts regular DJ nights and events, making it a lively spot for a date that’s more on the active side. After a game of bowling, grab a drink at their bar or hit the dance floor to keep the night going.
This versatile space means you can mix and match your evening, starting with some friendly competition and ending with a drink in hand while enjoying the music. It’s a fun, light-hearted way to spend time together.
Address: 945 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109
For a date that blends nostalgia and fun, head over to Belmont Park, San Diego’s iconic beachfront amusement park. Take a ride on the Giant Dipper, an iconic and historic wooden roller coaster, or challenge each other to a round of mini-golf at Tiki Town Adventure Golf. The tiki-themed course offers tropical vibes and fun challenges that are perfect for a little friendly competition.
Afterward, explore the boardwalk and grab a snack from one of the many food stands. Whether you choose to indulge in a funnel cake or share some ice cream, the mix of retro amusement park fun and beachside beauty makes Belmont Park a magical date destination.
Address: 3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
For a more refined yet laid-back date, head to Slowly, a bar and lounge in Pacific Beach. Slowly is known for its relaxed atmosphere, stylish decor, and expertly crafted cocktails. Perfect for couples who want a low-key night out while still enjoying top-notch drinks, this spot has the perfect sophisticated ambiance. With dim lighting, cozy seating, and a variety of unique cocktails, it’s an intimate setting that allows for great conversation and connection.
Whether you’re starting your night here or using it as a place to wind down, Slowly provides a chill, intimate backdrop for your date.
Address: 1520 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109
Beer lovers will enjoy a date at North Park Beer Co. in Crown Point. This relaxed spot is known for its rotating taps of local craft beers, and it offers a cozy, casual atmosphere perfect for winding down or just hanging out. Grab a beer flight and sample a variety of brews, then take a walk along the waterfront at Crown Point for a quiet and scenic end to your evening. It’s a great option for couples who prefer a laid-back, easygoing vibe but still want to enjoy some local flavor and craftsmanship.
Address: 3801 Ingraham St, San Diego, CA 92109
Nothing says romance like a cozy bonfire on the beach. Use one of our trusted partners, the Beach Fire Guy, who takes care of everything from setting up the fire pit to providing chairs, blankets, and even s’mores kits. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a cozy evening under the stars, complete with the warmth of a crackling fire and the peaceful sound of the waves. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to relax and enjoy each other’s company, this is the ultimate beach date experience. Protip: bring along some snacks, drinks, and a playlist to make your evening even more personalized and special.
More Info: Beach Fire Guy
Spend an afternoon browsing through Pangea Outpost, a vibrant, massive marketplace filled with unique goods from local artists and makers. The shop is a true treasure trove of one-of-a-kind items, from jewelry and art to home decor and beachy souvenirs and so much more (seriously!). It’s the perfect spot for couples who enjoy discovering local crafts and supporting small businesses. Take your time exploring the eclectic mix of products, and if something catches your eye, pick it up as a special reminder of your date and trip to San Diego.
Address: 909 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109
For dessert lovers, a date to Handel’s Ice Cream is a must. Famous for its creamy and flavorful scoops, Handel’s offers a four-scoop sampler that’s perfect for sharing. Choose a mix of your favorite flavors and enjoy the ice cream while walking along the beach. This sweet treat is the perfect way to end your date.
With over 100 flavors, they have something for every kind of sweet tooth. Whether you’re craving indulgent classics like Oreo or Rocky Road, or more adventurous picks, they’ve got you covered. We love their Birthday Cake and Cotton Candy for that extra sugar hit, but it’s hard to resist their signature flavors like Graham Central Station with graham cracker swirls, or Buckeye, a rich peanut butter and chocolate combo. If you’re after something fruity, the Blueberry Cobbler is a standout, while the Salty Caramel Truffle gives the perfect sweet-and-salty balance. Enjoy all of the delicious options with your date!
Address: 4475 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
For a casual mid-afternoon date, Trident Coffee offers a wide selection of organic, single-origin craft cold brews and functional espresso drinks. Trident also lets you sample multiple flavors with their cold brew flights, perfect for all coffee lovers. Their menu includes functional drinks like the Cognitive Mushrooms latte and Adaptogen latte, which blend wellness benefits like grass fed collagen, activated charcoal and organic MCT oil. Plus, if you’re in the area between 2:00 and 4:00 PM, don’t miss their daily happy hour, where you can enjoy 20% off drinks and double rewards points. Trident Coffee transforms a simple coffee date into a refreshing and fun experience. Protip: walk along the boardwalk with your delicious cold brew in hand.
Address: 4462 Mission Blvd Suite 102, San Diego, CA 92109
For couples who love to laugh, Don’t Tell Comedy offers secret, pop-up comedy shows in unique venues throughout San Diego, including Pacific and Mission Beach. The catch? You won’t know the location or lineup until just before the show, adding an exciting element of surprise to your date. These intimate shows feature up-and-coming comedians and always provide a fun, relaxed atmosphere perfect for a lighthearted evening. We can really vouch for this one- these lineups are consistently hilarious and sure to deliver busting, side-splitting laughter to your date!
More Info: Don’t Tell Comedy
If you’re looking for a lively date of dancing, house music, tequila and fun, Pacific Beach is home to some of the best bars in the area. Plan a bar-hopping adventure starting at Mavericks Beach Club, where you can enjoy happy hour drinks and live music. From there, head over to Firehouse for rooftop cocktails with ocean views, and then make your way to Shore Club or The Local for a night of dancing and late-night fun. With so many great spots in one area, you can create a perfect bar-hopping route that suits your mood, whether you’re into laid-back beachside bars or high-energy nightlife.
Mavericks Beach Club: 860 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109
Firehouse: 722 Grand Ave, San Diego, CA 92109
Shore Club: 4343 Ocean Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
The Local Pacific Beach: 809 Thomas Ave, San Diego, CA 92109
Mission and Pacific Beach strike the perfect balance between stunning coastal views and lively energy, making it the best part of San Diego for a fun date! Whether you’re cozying up by a beach bonfire, enjoying a nostalgic day at Belmont Park, or sipping cocktails with live music, this guide has you covered for a sweet date near the beach. What really sets these spots apart is how easily they blend fun with romance. Sometimes it’s the smallest moments that are most important to savor, like sharing ice cream on the beach, laughing at a comedy show, or stumbling upon a hidden speakeasy, that make for the most unforgettable memories. With endless options to suit any schedule or budget, Mission and Pacific Beach are the perfect playgrounds for love, adventure, and spontaneous fun together!
Dreaming of a romantic San Diego getaway? Explore our top-rated vacation rentals and find the perfect place to call home during your visit!
Welcome to Mission Beach, a vibrant coastal community in San Diego where the sun shines year-round and the waves beckon both surfers and sunbathers alike. If you’re staying with Mission Sands Vacation Rentals, you’re already off to a great start! Our prime locations and cozy accommodations set the perfect stage for an unforgettable vacation. But how can you make your visit truly special? By experiencing Mission Beach like a local, of course! Here’s your ultimate guide to living like a Mission Beach resident during your stay.
1. Start Your Day with a Beachside Coffee
Locals know that there’s nothing like starting the day with a cup of coffee by the ocean. Head to The Mission on Mission Boulevard for a laid-back vibe and an amazing breakfast. Try their signature Chino-Latino cuisine, and don’t miss out on the soy chorizo breakfast burrito. For coffee purists, Better Buzz Coffee Roasters offers a fantastic brew and a great spot to people-watch.
2. Bike Along the Boardwalk
One of the best ways to see Mission Beach is on two wheels. Rent a bike from Cheap Rentals and cruise along the Ocean Front Walk. This scenic path stretches from the Mission Bay jetty to Pacific Beach, providing stunning ocean views and a peek into the daily lives of locals and tourists alike. Be sure to make a stop at Belmont Park, a historic amusement park with the famous Giant Dipper roller coaster.
3. Dive into Water Activities
Living like a local means embracing the ocean. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner, Mission Beach has waves for everyone. Rent a surfboard or take a lesson from Mission Beach Surfing School. For a more relaxed experience, try paddleboarding or kayaking in Mission Bay. Local favorite Aqua Adventures offers rentals and tours that cater to all skill levels.
4. Enjoy Fresh, Local Eats
Mission Beach is a food lover’s paradise. For lunch, grab a fish taco from Oscars Mexican Seafood on Mission Boulevard—locals rave about their fresh, flavorful fare. If you’re in the mood for something more upscale, JRDN at Tower23 Hotel offers delicious meals with a stunning ocean view. And don’t miss The Baked Bear for a custom ice cream sandwich dessert.
5. Catch a Sunset at Sunset Cliffs
No visit to Mission Beach is complete without experiencing a Pacific sunset. Head to Sunset Cliffs Natural Park for an unparalleled view. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and perhaps a bottle of wine, and join the locals who gather here to end their day with nature’s most beautiful show.
6. Experience the Nightlife
As the sun sets, Mission Beach comes alive with nightlife. Start with a craft cocktail at The Grass Skirt, a tiki-inspired hideaway with a fun, tropical vibe. For live music and a vibrant scene, Moonshine Beach is a local favorite. And if you’re looking for a laid-back spot to end the night, Beachcomber offers a classic dive bar atmosphere.
7. Shop Local
For a unique souvenir, visit the Mission Beach Boardwalk shops. You’ll find everything from beachwear to local art. For a more eclectic mix, head to nearby Ocean Beach and explore the vintage stores, antique shops, and local boutiques.
8. Relax and Recharge
After a day full of activities, nothing beats returning to the comfort of your Mission Sands vacation rental. Whether you’re unwinding on the patio, soaking in the hot tub, or enjoying a quiet evening with a book, your home away from home is the perfect place to recharge for another day of adventure.
Final Thoughts
Living like a local in Mission Beach means embracing the relaxed, adventurous spirit of this beautiful coastal community. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant local culture, and endless activities, Mission Beach offers something for everyone. At Mission Sands Vacation Rentals, we’re here to make sure your stay is comfortable, convenient, and filled with unforgettable memories.
So grab your sunscreen, put on your flip-flops, and get ready to experience Mission Beach like a true local. We can’t wait to welcome you!
San Diego Attractions
Are you looking for some fun San Diego attractions during your vacation? Here are the top 5 San Diego attractions you should explore while you are here!
1. Balboa Park
You can enjoy the whole day at Balboa Park by actively exploring activities such as performing arts, dance classes, gardens, museums, and much more. Balboa Park is among the most popular San Diego attractions and has seventeen museums you can see. A few of them include The Museum of Photographic Arts, The San Diego Natural History Museum, and The Fleet Science Center. If that doesn’t catch your interest, maybe the performing arts will. You can watch a variety of musical performances, listen to live music, or laugh your heart out with the comedy shows. If that doesn’t do it for you, join their dance classes! It consists of dancing genres from swing to line dancing. There is even folk and cultural music for those of you who wants to explore the cultural side of San Diego. After all that fun, there is plenty of room to relax by having a picnic at the Balboa Park botanical gardens and enjoying a nice lunch with a view.
For more information visit: https://www.balboapark.org/
2. Torrey Pines State Reserve
Torrey Pines State Reserve will get you off your feet. Here, you can enjoy some nice hiking trails that leads you straight down to the beach. Head down before sunrise and walk along the Three-Fourth Mile Beach Trail that overlooks the stunning view of La Jolla Shores. You can also take the Guy Fleming Trail that offers panoramic views and a variety of plants and flowers. There are plenty of activities and restaurants that can keep you busy all day here at the Torrey Pines State Reserve.
For more information visit: https://torreypine.org/reserveinfo/
3. Mission Beach
Want some fun in the sun? Then Mission Beach is where you want to be if you are wanting to play some water-sports or simply just spending time with your loved ones. Here, you can surf the wave, go boogie boarding, swim, surf, volleyball, sport fishing, scuba diving, you name it. Mission Beach also has a boardwalk that stretches nearly 2 miles if you are fond of biking, walking, or even jogging. Along the Mission Beach Strip, there is an amusement park called Belmont Park for all ages. It has bumpers cars, rock climbing, an arcade, and their infamous roller coaster, The Big Dipper. After a long day, you can relax and let loose by visiting the local restaurants and bars that is known for their friendly and upbeat ambiance.
For more information visit: https://www.sandiego.gov/lifeguards/beaches/mb
4. Seaport Village
Seaport Village is the center of entertainment on a fourteen-acre waterfront. You can grab some ice cream from Ben and Jerry and shop in some of the most interesting boutiques that can’t be found anywhere else. This waterfront has fifty-four shops to find whatever you like, seventeen restaurants from casual to fine dining. You can also enjoy a drink or two and watch the sunset with an incredible view.
For more information visit: http://www.seaportvillage.com
5. Old Town San Diego
My last recommendation is Old Town San Diego otherwise known as the Old Town State Historical Park. If you want to go back in time then this is the place to go. This historical park dates back from 1821 to 1872 and is known for their museums, shops, and restaurants. The shops in this area are based on the lifestyles of the Native Americans, Spanish, and Mexicans that you shouldn’t miss out on. Here, you get the opportunity to see a big part of San Diego’s culture and history. If you don’t like exploring on your own, they have a guided walk tour that gives you the opportunity to relive the historical sites in San Diego.
For more information visit: http://www.oldtownsandiegoguide.com
Rockaway Cottage
3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
This cozy, homely, 890 square foot cottage sits bay side near Northern Mission Beach. Recently redecorated and updated, the 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms are perfect for a family getaway any time of year. Located only a few steps from the bay, this property also has a private outdoor patio surrounded by a wooden fence, allowing guests to enjoy the privacy of the home.
A wooden gate stands between the local court-side neighborhood and the comfort of this home. Upon passing through the gate, a private patio emerges with outdoor furniture, a gas grill and the main entrance to the cottage.
The cottage opens into a well equipped kitchen with informal seating at a table that also is capable of expanding for a more formal dining experience. A full kitchen is installed in the home, along with a dishwasher.
Next, the bright and comforting living room holds two couches and a smaller chair. Recently redesigned and decorated, the room is nautical themed and also has a fireplace to relax next to in the winter.
The spacious master bedroom is home to a queen a queen bed, a private bathroom and patio access in the back of the house.
The second bedroom contains a queen bed and a private closet along with a window facing towards the bay.
Finally, the third bedroom is perfect for kids, as it has a twin bunk bed with a pull out trundle bed.
Rockaway cottage is the perfect location for a private getaway near the bay. Also, it is within walking distance (2-3 blocks) of restaurants, shopping, surf shops, bars and the Mission Bay Aquatic Center.
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San Gabriel Delight
3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms
This beautiful, 1,300 square foot ocean side vacation rental is located in South Mission Beach, one property off the ocean boardwalk and two blocks from the bay.
A downstairs patio with a grill and patio chairs opens into the entrance way, housing the front door which leads up a handful of stairs into the bright and airy living room. Large windows encompass the living and dining room area, allowing sunlight to illuminate the entire first floor. Modern furniture and bright accent pieces make the room feel vibrant and fresh.
The kitchen bends around the corner of the main entrance and living/dining room area and also features a four-chair bar. There is plenty of space to serve a few cocktails and make a family-style dinner.
All three bedrooms are located upstairs. The master contains a queen bed that faces a large window which opens up towards the ocean. A side hallway leads to the master bathroom and closet.
The second bedroom is located across the hall from the master, featuring a queen and its own bathroom and closet as well.
Lastly, the third bedroom is a den which connects the master and second bedroom. It has multiple long windows facing the ocean and contains a twin-sized fold-out couch.
Finally, the spacious two-car garage is attached below the house, but there is no door leading from the garage to the house.
Overall, San Gabriel Delight is the perfect property to vacation at during the summer. It blends bright spacious rooms with the hint of salt water in the air. Within walking distance of small shops, restaurants and bars, it is also close to Belmont Park and provides access to plenty activities for a family.
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Supporting local family farms is an important part of the San Diego community and agriculture industry. There are over 6,000 farmers in the San Diego area and their produce results in a $1.5 billion dollar market. Farmer’s markets are a great opportunity to boost the San Diego economy while purchasing healthy locally grown produce, plants, crafts and supporting local businesses and vendors.
There are more than 25 certified farmer’s markets in San Diego County. Basically, a certified farmer’s market means that the state of California has approved it and also ensures the produce is grown locally, sold by the grower and meets state quality standards.
Where are the local farmer’s markets to visit while vacationing at one of our properties and what day are they set up?
Pacific Beach Certified Farmer’s Market
Saturday: 8 am – Noon
4150 Mission Blvd between Reed & Pacific Beach Blvd
Pacific Beach, CA 92109
Phone: (760) 741-3763
Pacific Beach Tuesday Certified Farmers Market
Tuesday: 2:00 to 7:00 PM
Bayard St. from Garnet Ave. to Hornblend St.
Pacific Beach, CA 92109
Ocean Beach Certified Farmers Market and Wednesday Night Out
Wednesday: 4:00 to 7:00 PM (October – March)
Wednesday: 5:00 to 8:00 PM (April – December)
4900 block of Newport between Cable & Bacon
Ocean Beach, CA 92107
San Diego County Farmer’s Markets
Jamaica Retreat
4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
This beautiful, 1,450 square foot, second-floor vacation rental is located court side in central Mission Beach, around eight houses from the ocean boardwalk and two blocks from Belmont Park.
The vacation rental is newly remodeled, vibrant and the perfect location for a large family getaway. While the property does have four bedrooms, it can sleep eight comfortably. The master and second bedroom both have a queen size bed. However, the remaining two rooms each have a pair of twin beds.
An open kitchen, dining and living room provide plenty of space for a family to relax without feeling cramped and crowded. The carpet is new, as are most of the appliances and furniture.
Additionally, the property has a dishwasher, stove top and oven, washer, dryer and two car garage.
Finally, while the vacation rental does not have air conditioning, the upstairs patio provides plenty of breeze and each room has a newly installed ceiling fan. The balcony overlooks Jamaica Court and also has a nice view of the ocean and boardwalk.
If you are looking for a vacation rental in San Diego, this beautiful large property offers plenty of space, sleeping room and is less than two blocks from the ocean, bay, Belmont Park, shopping, dining and other fun activities.
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Mission Beach’s Belmont Park, is one of the area’s premier attractions for those staying with Mission Sands. Having been open since 1925, the park is home to multiple restaurants, bars, shops and rides. However, the main draw is the Giant Dipper Rollercoaster.
The 2,600 foot wooden track runs with two 18-passenger trains along the beautiful beach. Because the park and coaster were so popular and historic, the Giant Dipper was recognized as a National Historic Landmark on July 4, 1990.
Additionally, Belmont Park is home to a giant swimming pool (under construction), two wave riding areas, climbing walls, athletic club, laser tag, an arcade and more.
Looking for a cold beer on the beach, ice cream or lunch/dinner? Take a look at the restaurants the park has to offer. Cannonball, the largest oceanfront rooftop sushi bar in San Diego is perfect for dinner, while North Shore Café is known for breakfast.
Finally, the park is the perfect place for birthday parties, private events and even cabanas to enjoy a romantic sunset.
Looking to pair a sunny vacation along with great locally brewed beer? San Diego, often refereed to as the the “Craft Beer Capital of America,” would be the perfect choice.
Spanning 70 miles of coast line and over 100 licensed breweries, San Diego is home to some of the best beer in the country. Karl Strauss, which opened in 1989, is likely the most familiar name. However, there are plenty of other great breweries such as AleSmith Brewing Co., Ballast Point Brewing & Spirits, Pizza Port and St. Archer Brewing Co.
In fact, 11 different San Diego breweries took home medals from the 2014 Great American Beer Festival in Denver, Colorado.
Interested in touring multiple breweries at once? There are plenty of public and private tours available throughout the city.
Additionally, there are multiple festivals through out the course of the year, such as the San Diego Festival of Beer, San Diego Beer Week and the San Diego International Beer Festival, which is the largest beer festival on the West Coast.
If you are unable to schedule a trip during one of the city’s many beer festivals, be sure to check out some of the popular breweries below.