From the sun-soaked shores of La Jolla Cove to the family-friendly splashes at LEGOLAND Water Park in Carlsbad, San Diego’s water attractions offer year-round adventures. Mission Bay’s calm waters provide perfect conditions for jetpacking, parasailing, and kayaking through the Pacific.
Maritime enthusiasts can explore historic vessels at the Maritime Museum along the Embarcadero, while thrill-seekers head to The Wave Water Park in Vista. Campland on the Bay delivers classic SoCal beach camping experiences with easy access to water sports rentals.
Dive into SoCal’s ultimate water recreation guide below!
Featured Water Activities in San Diego
- La Jolla Cove
- Maritime Museum of San Diego
- Jetpack America
- LEGOLAND Water Park (Carlsbad)
- Everyday California
- The Wave Water Park (Vista)
- Mission Bay Sportcenter
- Campland on the Bay
- San Diego Parasailing Adventures
- Action Sport Rentals
Boating in San Diego
Action Sport Rentals
What to Expect
Multiple rental locations across San Diego
Description
Action Sport Rentals offers a wide range of water-based activities in San Diego, including powerboats, sailboats, kayaks, paddleboards, and body boards. Located at multiple sites across Mission Bay and San Diego Bay, it provides equipment for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts. The variety of rentals caters to different group sizes and preferences, making it ideal for families and groups seeking water-based recreation.
Where: San Diego | More Info: Action Sport Rentals
Everyday California
What to Expect
Guided kayak tours through La Jolla Sea Caves
Description
Everyday California offers a variety of water-based activities, including kayak tours through La Jolla's Seven Sea Caves and snorkeling in the La Jolla Ecological Reserve. They provide surf camps and lessons, as well as rentals for kayaks, surfboards, and stand-up paddleboards. Their tours are suitable for all ages and skill levels, with experienced guides ensuring safety and fun.
Where: San Diego | More Info: Everyday California
Swimming in San Diego
LEGOLAND Water Park (Carlsbad)
What to Expect
LEGO-themed water slides
Description
LEGOLAND Water Park offers a variety of interactive water attractions, including Riptide Racers, Pirate Reef, and Build-a-Raft River. It features unique experiences like DUPLO Splash Safari for younger children and cabana rentals for a VIP experience. The park is located within LEGOLAND California Resort and requires same-day admission to the main theme park. Features over 10 million gallons of water for endless fun.
Where: Carlsbad | More Info: LEGOLAND Water Park
The Wave Water Park (Vista)
What to Expect
Flow Rider and Rip Tide Slide
Description
The Wave Water Park offers a variety of water attractions, including a slide tower with four slides, a flow rider, a rip tide slide, a lazy river, and a spray park. It also features a competition pool and a large open pool area. The park is recognized for its safety measures and offers amenities like cabanas, picnic tables, and a grill restaurant. It provides swim lessons and summer camps, making it an ideal spot for families and water enthusiasts.
Where: Vista | More Info: The Wave Water Park
Water Sports in San Diego
Jetpack America
What to Expect
Hydro-flight jetpacks and jetboards
Description
Jetpack America offers hydro-flight experiences with water jetpacks and jetboards, providing a unique blend of thrill and skill-building. Participants can choose from various flight packages, including tandem flights for children. The experience combines elements of jet skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving, making it a standout in water-based recreation. Jetpack America emphasizes safety with extensive training and a high staff-to-pilot ratio.
Where: San Diego | More Info: Jetpack America
Mission Bay Sportcenter
What to Expect
Extensive Water Sports Facility
Description
Mission Bay Sportcenter offers a wide range of water-based activities including boating, jet skiing, sailing, wakeboarding, and stand-up paddleboarding. Located on Mission Bay, it provides a serene atmosphere and professional staff for a safe and enjoyable experience. The facility also hosts summer camps for kids, focusing on various water sports and activities.
Where: San Diego | More Info: Mission Bay Sportcenter
San Diego Parasailing Adventures
What to Expect
Winch-direct parasailing technology
Description
San Diego Parasailing Adventures offers a thrilling combination of offshore powerboat rides and parasailing, providing scenic views over Mission Bay. Participants take off and land from onboard the boat using state-of-the-art winch-direct parasailing technology. The experience includes two flight options: the Cloudhopper and the SkyRider, each offering different altitudes and airtime durations. It is particularly well-suited for water-based recreation enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline-packed adventure with stunning ocean views. San Diego Parasailing Adventures features certified captains and emphasizes safety, making it an ideal choice for family outings or group events.
Where: San Diego | More Info: San Diego Parasailing Adventures
Diving and Snorkeling in San Diego
La Jolla Cove
What to Expect
Crystal-clear waters and marine life
Description
La Jolla Cove is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. The cove is surrounded by sandstone cliffs, providing a stunning backdrop for photos and sunsets. It is home to a colony of California sea lions and harbor seals, offering visitors a chance to observe these marine mammals up close. The area is perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics, with nearby Ellen Browning Scripps Park offering additional scenic views.
Where: San Diego | More Info: La Jolla Cove
Other Water Activities in San Diego
Campland on the Bay
What to Expect
Waterfront RV resort with marina
Description
Campland on the Bay offers a comprehensive waterfront experience with amenities like pools, spas, and a marina for water sports rentals. It features a dog-friendly environment and various campsites, making it ideal for family vacations. The resort provides access to Mission Bay for activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
Where: San Diego | More Info: Campland on the Bay
Maritime Museum of San Diego
What to Expect
Historic ship collection
Description
The Maritime Museum of San Diego offers a unique blend of maritime history and interactive experiences. Visitors can explore historic ships like the Star of India, the world's oldest active sailing ship, and replicas such as the San Salvador. The museum provides hands-on sailing experiences aboard these vessels and offers narrated bay cruises, including a Naval History Tour on a Swift Boat. It is an excellent destination for those interested in maritime history and hands-on water-based activities.
Where: San Diego | More Info: Maritime Museum of San Diego
Site Language: