with sightseeing . “ We ’ re a little quieter on the bay side so we have this wonderful bay walk that basically is right next to our property and traverses the whole Mission Bay ,” Tapp explains . “ The exploring kids can do on our property keeps them entertained and that ’ s great . We try to focus on making sure the kids are happy because then the parents are going to be happy .”
TOP : COURTESY OF BELMONT PARK / SANDIEGO . ORG ; BOTTOM RIGHT : ZAK BENSON
FOODIE FANCIES Food is at the forefront of every good vacation , and it ’ s no different on Mission Bay . The resort chefs make sure that their menus consider children as well , so the whole family can find something delicious to savor . Dockside 1953 , a nautical-themed eatery that serves as the signature restaurant at Bahia , offers fresh fare and a spacious terrace . “ I would recommend sitting on the patio for stunning marina and bay views ,” Lawler notes , adding that the new restaurant also boasts fire pits and a beautiful covered trellis . With a dedication to high-quality ingredients , menu highlights include chilaquiles for breakfast ; fish tacos , an Impossible burger and a selection of flatbreads for lunch ; plus seared scallops , charbroiled rib-eye , seafood cioppino or a house-blended meatloaf plate for dinner .
Tapp says that fun , flavorful food that is easy to eat is the goal for the kids ’ menu at Catamaran . While he cites chicken tenders , the cheeseburger with French fries , the peanut butter and jelly sandwich , and the Little Shells pasta as some of the most ordered items for children , he adds that children can also share flatbreads or sushi with their parents . Seasonal poolside dining is available as well .
According to Tapp , families can also enjoy the luxury of convenient in-room dining . And , on warm , sunny days , Lawler says the area is ideal for an outdoor picnic . “ The Bahia has a secluded beach for our guests so that would be a perfect place for a picnic ,” she says . “ The surrounding Mission Bay Park does have some picnic tables scattered through the area and also bonfire pits , if anyone would like to have a barbecue off property .”
The beachfront Belmont Park is home to rides , restaurants and shopping opportunities .
ENDLESS ENTERTAINMENT At the Bahia , pop culture runs rampant in the summertime , when the resort ’ s family-friendly film showings are the talk of the town . During these warmer months , head to the tropical Palm Terrace for complimentary movie nights — complete with popcorn and a soda . Past movie titles have included animated features like “ Frozen ,” “ The Incredibles ” and “ Despicable Me .”
Those staying at Catamaran will have a chance to see similar films during the property ’ s event , Movies on the Bay . “ We have an oversize inflatable movie screen that we set up on the bay at dusk and we show different kids movies — Pixar movies , animated movies , Disney flicks . They ’ re all family-oriented ,” Tapp says , adding that they also serve popcorn and hot dogs so guests can enjoy a beachside picnic during the films .
For a unique historical experience , these two properties also provide sightseeing cruises around Mission Bay aboard the Bahia Belle , a sternwheeler that resembles a turn-of-the-century riverboat . At night , the boat comes alive with dance floors and drink specials , but , by day , it ’ s one of the most family-oriented activities around . For a few hours in the evening , sailors can enjoy a sightseeing tour . Take advantage of golden hour by heading up to the top deck ( there are three in total ) to enjoy sweeping views of the bay at sunset . g
Family-friendly Movies on the Bay ( bottom ) and poolside dining ( top ) are available at the Catamaran .
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