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Quick Treats in Mission Beach

Looking for some quick treats to grab on the go in Mission Beach? Well, you came to the right place. In my opinion, these are 5 of the best places in Mission Beach to get tasty treats and soak up some sun at the same time.

The Mad Beat

Fruit Bowls at The Mad Beet

Fruit Bowls are refreshing and healthy treats that will satisfy your hunger. At The Mad Beet, you have an option of at least sixteen different types of fruit bowls such as Honeyo, Acaiwol Nation, and the Pitayacat Dolls. The Honeyo is served with granola, peanut butter, Nutella, honey, strawberry, blueberry, and banana. The Acaiwol Nation includes organic acai, granola, honey, strawberry, blueberry, and banana. Pitayacat Dolls consist of organic pitaya, granola, honey, pineapple, honeydew, and banana. Of course, those are not the only items that they serve – they also carry smoothies, juices, salads, and wraps.
Check out The Mad Beet’s website.

The Baked Bear

Ice Cream at The Baked Bear

Looking for cool treats to enjoy while you cool down from a long day atthe beach? The Baked Bear has you covered. At The Baked Bear, you can customize your own ice cream sandwich or ice cream cone with a variety of cookies and ice cream flavors. I remember my first time at The Baked Bear in Pacific Beach. The line was long but the wait was doable. I ordered two red velvet cookies with mint chocolate chip ice cream and let me tell you, it was delicious. Some of the most popular cookie flavors they have are peanut butter, snickerdoodle, and chocolate. You can combine the cookies with any of the various ice cream flavors they carry. Ice cream flavors include salted caramel fudge, bear batter, and rocky road.

Check out The Big Bear’s website.

Juice Wave

Juices at Juice Wave

Looking to clean yourself up after all the food you indulge in and enjoy some tasty and healthy treats Juice Wave has many different cleanse options you can choose from to replenish your system. One option they have on their menu is the “Lettuce Love”, which includes five juices, one smoothie, one almond milk, and one shot. They also have an option called “Turnip the Beet”, which includes four juices, one smoothie, one almond milk and two shots. You can also customize your own cleanse package or order fresh pressed or cold pressed juices.

Check out Juice Wave’s website.

Bao Beach

Bao at Bao Beach

At Bao Beach, you can get different Asian fusion snacks to go, but I recommend getting bao. What is bao, you ask? Bao was originated in Taiwan and is a fluffy steamed bun filled with pecking duck and hoisin sauce; however, at Bao Beach, it is served a little bit differently. Bao at Bao Beach is served with Chinese pork, crispy shrimp, sautéed seasonal vegetables, Japanese fried chicken, Korean marinated beef, or Mexican braised pork. I have tried most of the varieties Bao Beach carries and my favorite so far is the Crispy Shrimp Bao, which tastes sweet, sour, and spicy. They also serve Onigiri, Poke Bowls, Bulgogi Fries, and Chicken Karaage.

Check out Bao Beach’s website.

Pizza at Square Pizza Co.

Square Pizza Co.

Last but not least… Pizza! At Square Pizza Co., there are two traditional pizza styles that the locals are hooked on – “The Squares” and “Detroit Red Top”. Both of these pizzas are made in the most simple and delicious way. The Squares, also known as the “Beach Pizza”, has a thin and crispy crust, a generous portion of signature sauce, premium cheese, and any toppings you desire. The Detroit Red Top is a rectangular pie with golden brown cheese spread on top of organic tomato sauce. If you’re hungry for pizza, stop in Square Pizza Co. and grab a single slice or a whole square pan pizza.

Check Square Pizza Co.’s website.

Are you interested in visiting Mission Beach? Our Mission Beach and Mission Bay vacation rentals come fully stocked with all the necessities you’ll need during your vacation – call us today at 858-488-2550 or check out all of our San Diego Vacation Rentals here.

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/

Balboa Park

 

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/

Torrey Pines

 

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

Mission Beach San Diego

 

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

Seaport Village San Diego

 

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

Old Town San Diego

Looking for events and activities during your San Diego Vacation this July? Read below to learn more about the Top 5 July Events in San Diego!

 

Big Bay Boom San Diego 2017

Big Bay Boom!

July 4 9:00 pm – 10:00 pm Free

We are about to observe one of America’s oldest holidays, Independence Day. But what is Independence Day without any fireworks? San Diego is hosting Big Bay Boom once again this year and it is known to be the largest fireworks show in the county. You can watch the 17 minute choreographed show at Shelter Island, Harbor Island, North Embarcadero, Marina District, Seaport Village/South Embarcadero, or Coronado Ferry Landing. San Diego has set up free parking lots with shuttle service to Harbor Island and Shelter Island to accommodate everyone that wants to watch it. The San Diego fireworks will be simulcast live on The Mighty 1090 AM and Max FM 105.7.

 

Festival of the Bells

Festival of the Bells

July 15 -16  Free

Everyone is invited to celebrate the 248th Anniversary of the Founding of Mission San Diego de Alcala. There will be food booths, live entertainment, games and bounce houses, and a full bar cantina. Experience the Blessing of the Bells where they ring all five Mission bells, including the original bell dating back to 1802. Check the schedule of the times and events.

 

Del Mar Racing

Del Mar Racing

July 19 – September 4 Admission

Saddle up and come watch Del Mar horse races at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. But if horses and betting isn’t your thing, check out the annual Hat Contest where people can enter to show off their creative hats and win prize money. But for the ultimate experience of live entertainment, drinks, and horse racing action, head over to The Party on Opening Day. There are many more races and events on other days so be sure to check out the calendar if you are planning to go.

 

San Diego Comic Con

San Diego Comic-Con International

July 20 – 23 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

San Diego Comic-Con is by far one of the largest conventions for comic lovers and pop culture and definitely makes the cut for the Top 5 July Events in San Diego. This event brings together comic creators, film and television directors, sci-fi and fantasy authors, producers, writers and creators from all over the world. The event is sold out each year but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the events and festivities outside in the downtown area around the convention center.

 

Gourmet Food Truck Festival

Gourmet Food Truck Festival

July 29 Noon – 6 pm  

If you’re a foodie, then you should head over to the 7th annual Gourmet Food Truck Festival in Del Mar. This where you can satisfy your appetite with the best food from at least 40 of the hottest food trucks in the SoCal area. So come hungry because most items here are $6-10 dollars!

 

So if you’re going to be here in San Diego, be sure to visit these Top 5 July Events in San Diego!

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.

The view more of our properties, please click here.

Rockaway Cottage - Mission Sands Vacation Rentals


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

490x270-rock-n-roll-san-diego1

The 2015 San Diego Rock’n’Roll Marathon is one of the city’s best events of the year, supports a great cause and allows visitors another chance to vacation in sunny San Diego. There are on average 20,000 runners total and 100,000 spectators.

Established in 1998, the race has since raised over $100 million for various charities. This year the race will benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

The entire event will be held from May 29-31, with the 5k being held on Saturday, May 30, while the 2-person half marathon rely, half marathon and marathon being held on Sunday, May 31.

The 5k course is a bit different than the others. It begins on 6th Avenue and Palm Street and ends on Balboa Drive @ Olive Street. The other three races begin on 6th and Quince at Balboa Park and end at PETCO Park, the home of the San Diego Padres.

Additionally, each race has bands playing near the entrance and at the finish line. The marathon also boasts a post-race concert.

While attending the race, you and your family or friends can stay at one of Mission Sands’ luxurious properties in Mission Beach. All of our properties are a 10-15 minute drive from downtown or the race entrance.

Day at the Docks

Do you love sportfishing? Are you interested in learning more about the sport or looking for something interesting to do this spring? Mission Sands highly suggests venturing down to the sportfishing landings in Point Loma, for the official start of Southern California’s spring saltwater fishing season.

There are multiple events such as seminars to improve your angling skills, children’s fishing adventures, catch, prep and cook demos, casting contests, boat rides around the bay and plenty of great food to enjoy.

Additionally, attendees will be able to tour multiple boats, including a U.S. Coast Guard Special Purpose Craft, Harbor Police Fire Boat, Vessel Assist and Sea Tow towboats, plus smaller fishing kayaks.

Finally, there will be a main stage with live music and raffles. Raffles will be held at noon, 2:30 and 4:15. Prizes include fishing trips, tickets to local attractions, tackle and more.

The event will be held Sunday, April 19, from 9 am until 5 pm. Admission is free. Be sure to stop by the beautiful Point Loma landings and enjoy the event.

Belmont Park
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.

SD Beer Capital

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.