can enjoy boardwalk-themed thrills at Belmont Park . The historic amusement park first opened in the 1920s and has since been expanded to offer even more excitement . One of the main attractions is the Giant Dipper , a wooden roller coaster that has been in place since the park ’ s early days . Reaching heights of 75 feet , children will love the twists , turns and drops , while parents can delight in sprawling coastal views . Other thrill rides , like Beach Blaster and Control Freak , will keep teens entertained , and younger children can enjoy a Tilt-A-Whirl , Liberty Carousel and Belmont Express mini train .
Aside from rides , this breezy beachfront spot is home to upscale and casual eateries , souvenir shops and attractions like
Paddleboarding offshore at Bahia Resort Hotel .
laser tag , a rock climbing wall , miniature golf , a zip line and a 7D Theater .
THE GREAT OUTDOORS When staying along the water at Mission Bay , it ’ s a must to get outdoors and explore . One of the best ways to stay active and soak up the sun at the same time is through Action Sport Rentals , a conveniently located rental company that has plenty to offer those staying at Catamaran and Bahia .
Bicycles are a great way to discover the area , as Mission Bay is home to miles of scenic bike paths . Action Sport Rentals ’ bikes for kids come with helmets , while the electric bikes are perfect for those who prefer not to pedal as much . Another option is the surrey rentals , which can accommodate families of up to six .
Or , explore by water on a variety of different vessels , as Action Sport Rentals offers pontoons , speedboats and sailboats for use on the bay . Propel yourself and get a workout at the same time with stand-up paddleboard and kayak rentals , or jump all the way in with surfboards and body boards . No matter which option you choose , you ’ re sure to enjoy time spent on the water in sunny San Diego .
In the spring and summer months , both resorts offer special seasonal activities to keep children entertained . “ During spring , you can enjoy scavenger hunts , shuffleboard and corn hole on the beach ,” Lawler says of Bahia ’ s programming . “ In the summer , you can enjoy movies at Palm Terrace .” According to Tapp , the Catamaran has similar offerings , with Hawaiian-themed poolside arts and crafts that include everything from learning the hula dance to making a lei . In addition , he says an arcade is located just off to the side , giving kids a chance to play video games year-round . And , in the evenings , both the Bahia and the Catamaran host Bayside Bonfires , complete with the chance to make s ’ mores .
The hotel properties themselves have family-friendly appeal as well . In 2019 , Bahia opened a new playground , providing a place for children to slip down slides , climb rope ladders , cross a bridge and more . Located near the tennis courts and surrounded by tropical plants , it ’ s a wonderful hideaway where kids can play while their parents indulge in some court time .
Bahia isn ’ t the only place offering lush , tropical scenery . At Catamaran , the island-inspired property encourages exploration . “ Our grounds are really very safe , relaxing and they ’ re fun ,” Tapp says , noting the many grassy areas for kids to play . Throughout , you ’ ll also find koi ponds with enormous , colorful fish as well as a large waterfall . A variety of ducks call the property home , but Catamaran also has some birds of its own , hosting an outdoor bird show throughout the year . And , along the water , guests can take advantage of a walking path for some exercise paired
26 MISSION : BEACH !