Sun Setting on Sail Bay
Paddle boarding in San Diego offers a rare opportunity for visitors to tour the coast, get up close and personal with wildlife, and get in a great full-body workout. Not to mention it’s an absolute blast!
There are multiple areas throughout San Diego where visitors can launch their boards and start exploring. Visitors can set out to explore the open ocean, coastline, protected harbors, or freshwater lakes.
Popular paddle board surfing locations in San Diego include: Mission Bay, La Jolla, Coronado Island, Point Loma, Carlsbad Lagoon, and Oceanside Harbor.
It’s not uncommon for paddle boarders to come across dolphins, seals, or even whales when venturing through these areas.
Sail Bay Beach in Front of the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa
Mission Bay Has Some of the Best SUP Opportunities in San Diego
While there is an abundance of options in San Diego, Mission Bay is one of San Diego’s most popular paddle boarding locations!
The area is beautiful, and the water is flat, making it ideal for a relaxing paddle board adventure. With a variety of waterways, inlets, and islets where paddle boarders can launch from, the options are truly boundless.
And if you’d like to stay nearby, The Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa’s beachfront resort will have you out into Mission Bay and paddle boarding within minutes!
This Polynesian-themed resort will have you feeling you are miles away in a tropical paradise. From koi ponds to tiki torches and sunset luaus, this is a luxury experience for everyone who’s ever dreamed of an island escape without the mega plane ticket and hassle.
Make a point to dine at their oceanfront restaurant for award-winning Californian cuisine. Then unwind at the only beachfront spa in San Diego.
Getting to Mission Bay
Located just minutes from Downtown San Diego, this saltwater bay is south of Pacific Beach.
Mission Bay is bordered to the east by the I-5 freeway and East Mission Bay Drive, to the west by Mission Blvd, to the north by Grand Avenue and to the south by West Mission Bay Drive and Sea World Drive.
Looking into the Cove at Bontia Cove
Bonita Cove in Mission Bay
Bonita Cove is next to Belmont Park and is a popular paddle board location that’s protected on three sides, making for calm waters on windy days.
During the warmer months, people love paddle boarding to Bonita Cove, pulling their boards onto the sand, and taking a swim in the water.
Low Tide at Ventura Cove Park
Ventura Cove in Mission Bay
Ventura Cove is near the Belmont Park Amusement Park in Mission Beach.
The water is calm, which makes it a great place for beginners who want to learn Stand Up Paddle Boarding.
Picnic Tables at Bahia Point Beach and Park
Bahia Point in Mission Bay
Bahia Point is a small peninsula that sticks out into Mission Bay and wraps around the Bahia Resort Hotel.
The beach faces north and east toward Ventura Cove and is known for being less busy than both Bonita Cove and Venture Cove.
Relaxing at Fiesta Island
Fiesta Island in Mission Bay
If you want to bring your dog on the adventure, Fiesta Island is the perfect paddle board destination.
Fiesta Island is a large piece of land within Mission Bay that is designated as leash free for dogs.
Now the entire family can enjoy the sandy beach and paddle board adventure!
Sail Bay is the Perfect Place to Sail, Kayak or Paddle Board
Sail Bay in Mission Bay
The Sail Bay portion of Mission Bay is perfect for a relaxing paddle boarding with generally calm waters.
If you want a truly unique San Diego experience, try out a paddle board yoga class, on a paddle board, in the bay!
Coronado Bay Bridge from Coronado
Coronado Island - Our Bonus Pick!
If ocean surfing is your style, head to Coronado Island for the perfect waves, amazing views and a great opportunity to shred the surf. Or you can set out on the San Diego Bay from Coronado as well!
Getting to Coronado Island
Located just 5 minutes over the Coronado Bridge from Downtown San Diego, Coronado is just off the coast.
Be aware, this location can get crowded on weekends!
The Perfect Paddle Length
For placid waters, longer paddles are preferred. For rougher waters or surfing conditions, you're going to want a shorter paddle for quicker maneuverability.