De Anza Cove Park

Mission Bay's De Anza Cove Park is perfect for swimming, sunbathing and picnicking. Visit this family-friendly park on your next San Diego trip.
Todd Sarouhan
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Why you'll love this beach
Why you'll love this beach
Swim, Sunbathe or Have a Family Picnic at De Anza Cove Park
De Anza Cove Park
Overview
Things to Do
Explore & Save
Popular Activities
Get There & Parking
Featured Activity
Know Before You Go
Stay Nearby
Similar Beaches

Highlights

Things to Do
Tips
How to get there
Parking
Things to Do
Tips
How to get there
Parking

Overview

Lots of Grassy Areas at De Anza Cove ParkSun Going Down at De Anza Cove Park

Mission Bay Park is a popular destination located just a few minutes from San Diego's bustling downtown. The area is best known for having a wide array of waterways, which both residents and visitors frequent on a regular basis. Along with providing access to ample, water-based recreational activities, Mission Bay is also great for sight-seeing.

Nestled in the northeast corner of Mission Bay Park, De Anza Cove Park features an expansive recreational area perfect for couples, families, and individuals who want to take advantage of the beautiful weather and scenic views of San Diego.

Here are some of the best activities and experiences that De Anza Cove Park has to offer, along with other essential info so you can plan your next trip accordingly.

Things to Do

Bikes Allowed
Bikes Allowed
Jet Skiing
Jet Skiing
Running
Running
Sunbathing
Sunbathing
Swimming
Swimming

Why You Should Visit

Water Activities

Swimmers, boaters, water skiers and jet skiers are all welcome at this beloved park. Enjoy easy access to the water from the conveniently located boat launch, or directly access it for swimming from the beach itself. Sunbathing is another popular activity here, as you can look forward to temperate weather throughout most of the year.

Land Activities & Bonfires

If you're interested in more terrestrial pursuits, there are also plenty of biking, hiking, and walking trails located throughout De Anza Cove Park. If you're in search of outdoor fitness, pick up a quick game at the volleyball or basketball courts, which are conveniently located next to the Mission Bay Park Visitor Center on Clairemont Drive. There is also a comfy picnic area located within the park, complete with bonfire pits for building a fire after dusk.

Local Tips
Perfect Option for Families
This beautiful park offers park benches, jogging and biking areas and also a volleyball area. There is also a boat launch ramp for boats and jet skis. Swimming, boating and water skiing are allowed.

Great for Families

Families are encouraged to check out the play areas and tot lots, which offer hours of fun to kids of all ages. This park also features plenty of restrooms, as well as shower facilities to rinse off after taking a dip in the water. If you'd like to reserve an area of the park for a large gathering or event, please inquire with the park office on securing the appropriate permit.

Bring Your RV

If you're exploring the area via RV, you can also take advantage of the Mission Bay RV Park located on the western shore of the cove. This cozy area provides easy access to all the park's amazing amenities. It's also highly secure, with 24-hour security so you can rest easy for the duration of your stay.

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How to Get There & Parking

Free Parking
Free Parking
Lot Parking
Lot Parking
Street Parking
Street Parking

Getting to De Anza Cove Park

De Anza Cove Park is located at 3000 East Mission Bay Dr., at the corner of N Mission Bay Dr. and De Anza Rd. It can be found right across the street from Mission Bay Golf Course. The park is easily accessible from different areas of San Diego, with the freeway off ramp is located less than a half of a mile from De Anza Cove Park.

You can also use public transportation to access the park from different parts of the city. The Metropolitan Transportation System's route 30 bus line makes numerous stops near the park for easy commuter access.

Parking at De Anza Cove Park

There are two large parking lots located off of N Mission Bay Dr. These lots usually do not fill up but on busy weekends or holidays it is a good idea to arrive early.

Featured Activity

Kids next to gorilla statue at the San Diego Zoo
The World Famous San Diego Zoo
Spend the day at the iconic San Diego Zoo! Featuring over 3,500 animals and 650 species, this zoo is the heart of Balboa Park. There are multiple exhibits & experiences for all ages to learn about animals and their habitats.
Learn More

Know Before You Go & Tips

Boardwalk
Boardwalk
Boat Launch
Boat Launch
Firepits
Firepits
Large Group Gatherings
Large Group Gatherings
No Alcohol
No Alcohol
No Camping
No Camping
No Glass Containers
No Glass Containers
No Motorized Vehicles
No Motorized Vehicles
No Smoking
No Smoking
No Trash Cans
No Trash Cans
Picnic Tables
Picnic Tables
Public Transportation
Public Transportation
Restrooms
Restrooms
Shade
Shade
Trash Cans Available
Trash Cans Available

What to Know

Seasonal Lifeguards

The park is open from 4 am to 2 am all year long, so early risers take note. Be aware that the beach is only patrolled by lifeguards from April (the start of spring break) to October when planning your trip. If you're visiting during the offseason, it's best to stay out of the water if you're not completely confident in your swimming ability.

Dogs Permitted with Restricted

Dogs are permitted to be walked inside the park, but times vary depending on the season. From the months of April to October, leashed canines are allowed within the park before 9 am and after 6 pm. From November to March, leashed dogs are also allowed in the before 9 am, but can enter the park after 4 pm.

Great for Picnics but No Alcohol Allowed

While visitors are encouraged to take advantage of the many picnic tables for outdoor dining, please be mindful of what kind of items you bring with you during your trip. Alcohol is not permitted in this park, nor are glass containers of any kind. Please clean up any mess left after eating so that other visitors can enjoy the same pleasant experience.

Lots of Parking

Along with free private lots, ample parking is available on many streets around De Anza Cove Park. If you're visiting on the weekend, it's best to arrive early to ensure you find a place to park. While it is in close proximity to the freeway, this park has a quiet, isolated feel and does not get as crowded as other parks in the area.

Safe & Well Maintained

As a San Diego City Park, visitors can expect a safe, well-maintained environment all year long. The city takes great pride in its outdoor recreation areas and beaches, which is why so many visitors flock to these locations throughout the year.

De Anza Cove Park
is Known For:
Swimming
Swimming
Know This:
Boardwalk
Boardwalk
Boat Access Only
Boat Access Only
Fire Pits
Fire Pits
Lifeguards
Lifeguards
This Month's Forecast
56°F / 73°F
Sunny in November
Dec
51°F / 68°F
Sunny in December
Jan
51°F / 67°F
Sunny in January
Feb
53°F / 68°F
Sunny in February

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