
In addition to kayaking, surfing, jet ski rentals and SUPs (stand-up paddle boards), there is a plethora of ways to experience San Diego from the water. Rent a Duffy boat, pontoon or pedal boat, take a harbor cruise or an educational tour on a historic sailing ship. Here are some of the best ways to experience San Diego water adventures with kids.
Bahia Belle Cruises
www.bahiahotel.com/bahia-belle
Relax on a sunset cruise or have a blast on a seasonal themed cruise (such as the summertime Sunday Fun & Games Cruise or the holiday Jingle Belle Family Cruise) aboard a three-story sternwheeler on Mission Bay.
Carlsbad Lagoon
4215 Harrison St., Carlsbad
www.carlsbadlagoon.com
Rent kayaks, waverunners and swan pedalboats while spending the day at Carlsbad Lagoon.
City Cruises by Hornblower
Downtown San Diego
www.cityexperiences.com/san-diego
Harbor sightseeing tours, brunch cruises, whale & dolphin watching adventures and more.
Coronado Ferry
Broadway Pier, 990 N. Harbor Dr., Downtown SD
www.flagshipsd.com/cruises/coronado-ferry
Cruise across the bay between Coronado Ferry Landing and Broadway Pier in downtown San Diego.
Eco Boat Rentals
www.ecoboatrentals.com
Rent a pink Duffy boat, a dog-friendly pedal boat or choose a nighttime glow boat experience on San Diego Bay.
Flagship Cruises
www.flagshipsd.com
Take a San Diego Harbor sightseeing tour or experience a high-speed thrill ride on a Patriot Jet Boat.
HydroBikes SD
Mission Bay or San Diego Bay
www.cycleonthewater.com
Ride a single or pontoon bicycle on Mission Bay! Ages 5–8 can ride with adults. Ask about Twofer Tuesdays. Closed on Mondays.
Lake San Marcos
www.thelakehouseresort.com/san-diego-sailing-club
Rent pontoon, Duffy or pedal boats, kayaks and stand up paddle boards at this hidden gem in San Marcos.
Maritime Museum of San Diego
1492 N. Harbor Dr., Downtown SD
ww.sdmaritime.org/visit/on-the-water-adventures
Explore San Diego Bay on a historic tall ship, a high-speed Navy Swift Boat or the majestic San Salvador.
San Diego SEAL Tours
Seaport Village, 789 West Harbor Dr., Downtown SD
www.sealtours.com/san-diego
Take a narrated tour of San Diego’s downtown area and the San Diego Bay in one amphibious land-and-sea vehicle!
Santee Lakes
www.santeelakes.com/boating
Take a spin around Santee Lake 5 in a ducky, swan, dragon or standard pedal boat.
Sea Monkey Sailing Adventures
www.seamonkeyadventures.com
Private daytime or sunset sailing tours (up to 12 people) designed specifically for families.
What’s your favorite way to experience San Diego in or on the water? Email
Photo courtesy of @SanDiegoFamilyAdventures
Lisa Gipson is the managing editor of San Diego Family Media.
_________________________________