South Mission Beach takes a slower look on life than its northern neighbor, Mission Beach. Its beach is considered the widest in the city and it has recently become known as a popular place for beach volleyball and basketball, since the courts were updated. A popular game similar to baseball called "Over-The-Line" is played here.
The beach ends at South Mission Beach Park by the Mission Bay Channel, where people fish off the jetty.
Beach Information
- Lifeguard Protection:
- 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 9:00 a.m. to dusk; but check with lifeguards for specific staff hours.
- Rip Currents:
- Most California beaches experience strong rip currents. The safety tips section on the government's website provides an explanation of rip currents and some methods of freeing yourself if caught in a rip current. The best advice is to swim near a lifeguard.
- Regulated Water Activity Zones:
- This beach has separate water areas reserved for swimming and surfing. Check with lifeguards for details.
- Surfing:
- Surfing is permitted at this beach in designated areas.
- Scuba:
- This beach is not recommended for scuba diving due to lack of undersea life, heavy water activity, and surf.
- Restrooms and Showers:
- Public restrooms and showers are located at the foot of San Diego Place, near the parking lot.
- Disabled Accessibility:
- 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.
- Beach Fires:
- Containers for beach fires are generally provided during summer months and are 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.
- Regulations:
- Standard San Diego beach regulations apply. Please check the government website for a full regulation list.
