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Parks

Tecolote Shores

4.7 · 1,596 reviews
Active, family-oriented, and breezy
Tecolote Shores, 1740 E Mission Bay Dr., San Diego, CA 92109, United States
Interesting facts
1

The park features a popular, multi-level playground structure designed to resemble nautical and sea-life themes.

2

The area is a frequent gathering point for local kite-flying enthusiasts due to consistent bay breezes.

3

Tecolote Shores is part of the larger Mission Bay Park, which is the largest aquatic park of its kind in the United States.

4

The fire rings at Tecolote Shores allow visitors to host beach bonfires, which are a regulated tradition in San Diego coastal parks.

Overview

Tecolote Shores is a dedicated waterfront recreation area located on the eastern shore of Mission Bay in San Diego. It is specifically divided into North and South sections, featuring expansive grassy lawns and sandy beach access. The park is home to a large, modern playground designed for children of various ages. Picnic tables, barbecues, and dedicated fire rings are available for public use throughout the park. The site offers unobstructed views of Mission Bay and the surrounding coastal landscape. It serves as a popular trailhead for the extensive Mission Bay bicycle and pedestrian path system. The park provides public restroom facilities and ample parking areas along East Mission Bay Drive.

Photo spot

The grassy shoreline at sunset, looking west across Mission Bay toward the distant hills and watercraft.

Insider tips

Bring a blanket or beach chairs to secure a spot on the grass, as picnic tables fill up early on weekends.

Pack a light windbreaker even in summer, as the bay breeze can become quite brisk in the late afternoon.

Use the dedicated public fire rings rather than bringing portable pits, which are prohibited.

What to avoid

Attempting to park on holiday weekends without arriving very early, as the lot reaches capacity quickly.

Etiquette

Leashed pets are allowed on paved paths but prohibited on the sand; observe quiet hours for beach fire activities.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-4 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings or late afternoons for quieter conditions and optimal parking access.
Address
Tecolote Shores, 1740 E Mission Bay Dr., San Diego, CA 92109, United States
32.775, -117.210
Get directions
Details
FacilitiesLarge modern playground, fire rings, picnic tables, and bike paths
AccessibilityFlat, paved paths throughout with accessible beach entry points

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-4 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings or late afternoons for quieter conditions and optimal parking access..

The grassy shoreline at sunset, looking west across Mission Bay toward the distant hills and watercraft.

Close by you'll find SeaWorld San Diego, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, Tecolote Canyon Natural Park and Nature Center.