South Mission Beach

N. Jetty Road, South Mission Beach, San Diego, California (map)

Beach Highlights

Beach Culture

The beach at South Mission Beach is more subdued than the neighbor beaches to the north. This stretch of sand resides in a residential area with pathways connecting the boardwalk with Mission Blvd, and defining small neighborhoods made up of clusters of small funky cottages, beach condos and rentals. South Mission Beach is frequented by a younger crowd, especially those that play beach volleyball, as well as local residents and tourists vacationing in beach rentals. The beach is defined largely by the boardwalk with funky homes, volleyball courts, wide sand, and secluded atmosphere.

The Strand

This beach in South Mission Beach, along with 3 beaches to the north make up The Strand, 3 1/2 miles long. The other beaches that make up The Strand are Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, and North Pacific Beach. The distance from South Mission Beach inlet to Crystal Pier is 2 1/2 miles.

Extra Wide Beach

South Mission Beach City Beach is one of the widest beach in San Diego. Other wide beaches in the county include Coronado City Beach, in Coronado, South Ponto Beach and South Carlsbad State Beach in Carlsbad, and Harbor Beach in Oceanside.

Activities

Recently, South Mission Beach has become known as a popular place to engage in sports such as beach volleyball and basketball following an extensive refurbishing of the courts. A popular game similar to baseball called "Over-The-Line" is allowed in a portion of this area.

Boardwalk

South Mission Beach marks the southern point of the Ocean Front Mission Beach Boardwalk that stretches north to the beaches past Crystal Pier in Pacific Beach. It's makes for a nice long walk, or better yet, roller blades or bike riding.

The boardwalk from South Mission Beach to Mission beach, a mile-long, is lined by beach houses. In fact, there's not much commerical activity along the beach or nearby Mission Beach Blvd until you get to Mission Beach at Belmont Park and Ventura Place.

Adjacent Park

At the south end of South Mission Beach is a long narrow park with picnic areas and grass. On the sand just north of the park are several volleyball courts. The South Mission Beach Life Guard Station is on the sand in front of the park and beyond that is the jetty, a popular surfing spot.

South of the park is Mission Bay Channel, which separates South Mission Beach from Ocean Beac. Jetties extend from both sides of the channel. Just to the north of the jetty is a popular spot for surfers. Across the channel in Ocean Beach, is Ocean Beach Dog Beach.

Amenities

Public restrooms and showers are located at the foot of San Diego Place, ear the parking lot. Volleyball and basketball courts available.

Regulations

Standard San Diego beach regulations apply, with the following modifications:

Beach Fires

Containers for beach fires are generally provided during summer months and available on a first come, first served basis. The burning of rubbish is prohibited. Only wood, charcoal, or paper products may be used as fuel. Fuel for the fire may not exceed a height of more than twelve inches above the upper edge of the fire container. The fire must be extinguished before leaving the beach. Open beach fires outside containers are prohibited at all San Diego beaches.

Alcohol

No alcohol is allowed on beach.

Water Activity Zones

This beach has separate water areas reserved for swimming and surfing. Check with lifeguards for details.

Other Details

Parking

Extensive free public parking is available at the south end of this beach.This lot fills very quickly on busy summer days and traffic can be heavy at times.

Lifeguards

Lifeguards are staffed daily year round at the main lifeguard station at the foot of Avalon Court. In summer, additional lifeguards are staffed along the beach in seasonal lifeguard towers. Lifeguards are generally on duty from 9am to dusk; but check with lifeguards for specific staff hours.

Contact San Diego Lifeguard Service
2581 Quivira Court, San Diego CA 92109
Urgent Business (619) 221-8800
Business (619) 221-8899
Fax office (619) 221-8858
Fax dispatch (619) 221-8881
Weather (619) 221-8824

Disabled Access

The boardwalk is accessible to wheelchairs and provides an excellent viewpoint of the beach. A special ramp extends from the parking lot onto the beach to allow for wheelchair access.