If Los Angeles has its Venice Beach, San Diego has Mission Beach. Mission Beach is a seaside community located on the western side of the mid-coastal region of the city of San Diego, California. It is bordered by the Pacific Beach in the north, Mission Bay in the east, the San Diego River and Ocean Beach in the south and the Pacific Ocean in the west.
Mission Beach is also at the heart of a wide stretch of beach, popularly known as the Strand and is the most popular beach area in the entire San Diego District. In fact, it is one of the most popular destinations particularly during the summer months. Each year, thousands of locals and tourists come to Mission Beach to enjoy a variety of water activities such as jet skiing, surfing and wake boarding, or to simply bask in the summer sun and work on their tan as they watch the people passing by.
The Boardwalk located in Mission Beach is lined with numerous shops, restaurants and beach rental outfits where locals and tourists are able to find everything that they are looking for. Walking, biking and other activities are usually done here, amidst different attractions and mini-shows done by the locals.
During the night time, young people gather on the beach where they would be able to enjoy the cool night air as they hold numerous bonfire parties. Bonfires are only permitted on certain areas of the beach. In order to ensure the conservation of the entire beach and safety of those holding the bonfire, certain restrictions are strictly enforced by lifeguards.