Hotels near Mission Beach and Belmont Park

Mission Beach is San Diego's classic beach strip, a narrow sandbar between the Pacific and Mission Bay with a 5 km (3 mile) concrete boardwalk lined with surf shops, taco stands and beach houses. San Diego in October is one of the best times for the beach here: the summer crowds have gone, parking is easier and the water is often warmer than in June.

Belmont Park, at the southern end, has been running since 1925, and its wooden Giant Dipper roller coaster is a National Historic Landmark. Rides are paid individually, the beach and boardwalk are free, and Belmont Park usually joins Kids Free San Diego in October. On the bay side, calm water suits paddleboarding and kayaking, while lifeguards still staff the ocean towers.

Pro Tip: Rent a beach cruiser and ride the boardwalk north to Crystal Pier in Pacific Beach in the morning, before the sea breeze picks up, and swim near a staffed tower, as rip currents are common.