Mission Beach

The seaside resort of Mission Beach first started to attract holiday-makers during the 1920s, when many of its beach-front homes were built. This busy, wealthy village has grown in popularity ever since, but has managed to retain its warm, period atmosphere. Admire the sea rolling in as you stroll along the busy boardwalk which follows the length of the beach. You’ll always find plenty of buskers, street acrobats and other artists plying their trade here, and it's also a popular spot with roller-bladers.If water sports are your thing, then grab a surfboard or a boogie board and head out into the perfect waves breaking towards the shore. Alternatively you could join a game of volleyball, or rent a bike or a set of blades and whizz around the seafront. For a more serene day’s entertainment, head for the pier at the south end of the beach and cast a line. Well away from the rods and hooks, scuba diving is another exciting option. There's a shipwrecked vessel just 800 metres offshore, and the diving companies are very happy to take you down to explore.One of the main attractions of Mission Beach is Belmont Park. This long-established amusement park has been delighting young and old alike for generations. The Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster dates back from the park's first days in the 1920s, and offers a relatively gentle alternative to the high speed of modern attractions. Tilt-a-Whirl is a good option for children, while Vertical Plunge gets the adrenalin pumping for hardy teenagers and other thrill-seekers. Other much-loved rides include old-fashioned amusements such as the bumpers and the Liberty Carousel, an ornate merry-go-round.Restaurants at Mission Beach are informal and welcoming to beach-goers and families. There is high demand for parking though, so come early or you're unlikely to get a space. Toilets and beachside showers are plentiful. Probably the best way to get here is to cycle or to take public transport the short distance from San Diego city centre.