Fiesta Island

Take your dog, friends, or family with you to Fiesta Island for the perfect beach day. You have access to the waters of Mission Bay, or you can just relax in the sun.
Todd Sarouhan
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Why you'll love this beach
Why you'll love this beach
Discover What Fiesta Island has to Offer
Fiesta Island
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

The Road Around Fiesta IslandPeople Camp Out for the Day at Fiesta Island

Life is one big party on Fiesta Island thanks in part to its location on the eastern side of Mission Bay Park, not far from some of San Diego’s favorite attractions. This island park is a favorite with locals, mainly because it’s huge and has lots of open spaces, from sandy beaches to grassy areas. It’s not a natural island, however; all of Mission Bay is man-made, and Fiesta was created out of the dredged sand from the widening of the estuary.

Fiesta Island also offers tons of water sports and other activities, so there’s always something to do. Since it's uninhabited, the natural surroundings and gorgeous views are not blocked by homes or hotels, making it the perfect spot for a day at the beach. Of course, it’s no secret that this island is magical, which is why lots of charity events, such as fun runs, bike rides, and walks take place along the road that loops around the isle.

Things to Do

Beach Volleyball
Beach Volleyball
Bikes Allowed
Bikes Allowed
Jet Skiing
Jet Skiing
Kayaking
Kayaking
Kiteboarding
Kiteboarding
Paddle Boarding
Paddle Boarding
Running
Running
Sunbathing
Sunbathing
Swimming
Swimming
Windsurfing
Windsurfing

Feeling Carefree on Fiesta Island

What can you do when you visit Fiesta Island?

It’s more like what can’t you do when you spend time at this city park. The island itself is one continuous beach, and there’s more than enough room for you to set up a spot for the day. On the east side, the waters are fairly calm, while on the west side, the water may not be as calm.

Great Place to Launch a Boat

Lots of locals take their personal watercraft to Fiesta because it’s easy to launch right from the sand. It is not uncommon to see people riding jet skis or paddling kayaks in the water or kiteboarding and windsurfing. Swimming is safe and enjoyable on the waters around the island as well, especially since there are not any waves.

Picnic on the Beach

People like to bring picnics to the beach, but better yet, you may want to plan an al fresco dinner. You can stick around and watch the sun set, then hang around one of the bonfire rings on the beach and relax into the evening. Just keep in mind that the park does close at night and does not allow overnight camping.

Local Tips
Did You Know?
Did you know that over five million people visit this amazing and unique area anually?

Lots to Do on Fiesta Island

As far as the island itself goes, its 2-mile loop is perfect for biking, running or strolling. Birds of all sorts nest or visit, and you might even see people with binoculars checking out the different species. Why not go horseback riding along the loop or near the water? Since it’s okay to drive on the beach, you can bring your horse trailer, RV, or jet skis right on the sand.

Over the Line Tournament

Several annual events are held on Fiesta Island as well, the most well-known being the Over the Line Tournament. This event has gone on for over sixty years, and people come out to join in the ball games or set up chairs on the sidelines and watch.

Fiesta Island Dog Beach

Another population that adores this area of Mission Bay is man’s best friend. The Fiesta Island Dog Beach is a fantastic option for fun in the sun with your pup. You can leave your leash in the car and let your dog run free and play in the water; just be sure to pick up after your pooch to keep the beach clean for everyone.

Explore SeaWorld and SAVE

SeaWorld San Diego
Visit SeaWorld San Diego
Check out SeaWorld San Diego for exciting rides, marine animal interactions and shows! Admission is included as part of the All-Inclusive Go City pass. Save even more when you bundle with other top attractions like the Birch Aquarium at Scripps!
Buy Now
Local Tips
What activities does the Go City San Diego pass include?

There’s a variety of activities included with the Go City San Diego pass such as: The San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, LEGOLAND, SeaWorld, Hiking Tours, Whale Watching, Museum Tours, Speed Boat Adventures & more!

For the most popular attractions and water-sport rentals as well as the biggest discounts, consider the All-Inclusive Pass.

Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to save an extra 5%!

Popular Activities

San Diego Harbor Cruise
San Diego Harbor Cruise
$36 per person
Buy Now
The World Famous San Diego Zoo
The World Famous San Diego Zoo
Discounts Available
Learn More
Patriot Jet Boat Thrill Ride
Patriot Jet Boat Thrill Ride
$35 per person
Buy Now

How to Get There & Parking

Free Parking
Free Parking
Neighborhood Parking
Neighborhood Parking
Street Parking
Street Parking

Getting to Fiesta Island

San Diego is an easy city to navigate, minus the traffic, and getting to Fiesta Island on Mission Bay is a piece of cake. Just take the Sea World Drive exit off I-5, and then turn onto East Mission Bay Drive. From there, make a left onto Fiesta Island, and park wherever you see a space.

Parking on Fiesta Island

If you don’t find a spot on the road, you can always park right on the beach! It’s not unusual to see people set up their beach spot right next to their vehicle. That makes it even more convenient if you’ve brought gear for water sports with you.

Featured Activity

Gray Whale during Whale Watching Tour in San Diego
Half Day Whale Watching Tour
Enjoy a 3.5 to 4-hour expert led tour departing from beautiful San Diego Bay on a two-story whale watching yacht. Take in the views, enjoy the marine life, dolphin & marvel at the majestic gray whales as they migrate along the coast.
Buy Now

Know Before You Go & Tips

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 Smoking
No Smoking
No Trash Cans
No Trash Cans
Public Transportation
Public Transportation
Shade
Shade
Trash Cans Available
Trash Cans Available

Just the Facts

No Facilities

This is huge to know, so remember this detail if you come to Fiesta Island: there are no public restrooms. During special events, there may be portable toilets available for use, but don’t expect them to be set up or clean every day.

Get Some Exercise

Hiking, walking, biking, and running are easy on the island since it is flat and mostly even.

Fiesta Island Youth Camp and Aquatic Center

The Fiesta Island Youth Camp and Aquatic Center are located here, but it is for use only for youth organizations. The campsites are not open to the public.

Clean Up After Your Dog

At the entrance to the park is a dog bag station; stop there to get bags if you have not brought your own. Please keep the beach clean and sanitary for everyone.

Parking Hours

Parking is not allowed between 10pm and 4am, and the police may enforce the no camping rule at random.

Fiesta Island
is Known For:
Picnicking
Picnicking
Know This:
Boat Launch
Boat Launch
Fire Pits
Fire Pits
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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