How do I access Mission Bay - South Shores?

Mission Bay - South Shores is a public boat ramp in California. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Mission Bay - South Shores?

Mission Bay - South Shores supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Mission Bay - South Shores?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Mission Bay - South Shores?

The best time to paddle at Mission Bay - South Shores is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round

What are the water conditions at Mission Bay - South Shores?

Water conditions at Mission Bay - South Shores include sheltered, tidal.

Is Mission Bay - South Shores good for beginners?

Yes, Mission Bay - South Shores is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

A couple of ducks floating on top of a lake

Photo by Juliana Uribbe on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingSUPSea KayakingBeginner

Conditions

BayShelteredTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall Winter

Mission Bay - South Shores

San Diego, CA · Boat Ramp · Public

Mission Bay - South Shores is a public boat ramp on Mission Bay near San Diego, California. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, paddleboarding, sea kayaking. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.

At a Glance

Water Body

Bay

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, SUP, Sea Kayaking

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Bay access at Mission Bay - South Shores near San Diego, California. Good for kayaking and sup.

Paddlers looking for protected waters in California can launch from Mission Bay - South Shores into Mission Bay.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. Stand-up paddleboarding is popular here when winds are light, especially in the morning hours.

You can expect sheltered and tidal water when paddling here. The recommended season runs Year-round. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 5 min from San Diego, Mission Bay - South Shores is a convenient option for San Diego-area paddlers.

Planning a trip? Read our complete paddler's guide to San Diego.

Launch points, tips, and local conditions →

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm bay waters make Mission Bay - South Shores ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Check for any no-paddle zones or restricted areas near ports.
•Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions.
•Watch for boat traffic, especially in narrow channels and near marinas.
•Explore the shoreline for hidden coves and calm side channels.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Mission Bay - South Shores?: Mission Bay - South Shores is a public boat ramp in California. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Mission Bay - South Shores?: Mission Bay - South Shores supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Mission Bay - South Shores?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Mission Bay - South Shores?: The best time to paddle at Mission Bay - South Shores is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Mission Bay - South Shores?: Water conditions at Mission Bay - South Shores include sheltered, tidal.
Is Mission Bay - South Shores good for beginners?: Yes, Mission Bay - South Shores is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 32.7641, -117.2178