🌴 Things to Do in San Diego

Most guests are staying at the Bahia Resort Hotel, which is right in the heart of Mission Bay—steps from the sand and close to so many of our favorite spots.

🎡 Across the Street: Belmont Park

Just a quick walk from the Bahia, Belmont Park is a beachfront amusement park with classic boardwalk vibes, rides (including the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster), arcades, casual eats, and ocean views.

Distance: ~5-minute walk

🚲 More Ideas Nearby:

Bike or Walk the Mission Beach Boardwalk – A lively path stretching from Mission Beach to Pacific Beach.

Distance: Directly accessible from the hotel (walking or biking)

Sunset Cliffs – A stunning oceanfront spot for dramatic views (and selfies).

Distance: ~15 minutes by car (In Ocean Beach—where the ceremony will be held and where Marta & Tim call home!)

Kayaking or Paddle boarding on Mission Bay – Rentals available right near the hotel.

Distance: Walking distance from the Bahia

Old Town San Diego – Explore the birthplace of California with historic buildings, great Mexican food, and colorful shops.

Distance: ~10 minutes by car

🌳 Balboa Park

Balboa Park is a must-visit cultural destination with stunning Spanish architecture, more than a dozen museums, botanical gardens, art installations, and seasonal performances. Great for a relaxing walk, a picnic, or museum hopping.

Distance: ~15–20 minutes by car

🦓 San Diego Zoo

Located in Balboa Park, it’s home to over 12,000 animals and lush botanical gardens. No visit to San Diego is complete without a trip to the world-famous San Diego Zoo.

Distance: ~15–20 minutes by car

⚓ Cabrillo National Monument

This historic site offers breathtaking panoramic views of San Diego Bay, downtown, and (on clear days) Mexico. Explore tide pools, walk the coastal trails, and visit the historic Old Point Loma Lighthouse. History buffs will love seeing the retired coastal defense guns from World War II that once protected the bay.

Distance: ~25 minutes by car

🦜 Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary

Don’t miss the Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary, a rescue center dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of exotic birds. Located in Del Mar, it’s a peaceful, interactive spot to meet parrots, cockatoos, and other beautiful birds.

Distance: ~25 minutes by car (14 miles)

🌊 La Jolla Cove & Sea Lions

Head up the coast to La Jolla, where you can watch sea lions sunbathe on the rocks at La Jolla Cove. The area also has beautiful beaches, tide pools, boutique shopping, and oceanfront restaurants—perfect for a scenic afternoon.

Distance: ~20 minutes by car