Considering that San Diego is know for it's attractive scenery and friendly coastline, it's a true compliment to be known as one of the best beaches in the area. Mission Beach, located in the center of the two-mile area known as The Strand, draws large crowds all year round and its cement boardwalk never seems to be empty of toned runners and suntanned cyclers.

Shops, restaurants, and beach rental operations are abundant in the area, so you'll be all set up for whatever you feel like doing during your visit. Rent a board or simply grab a parasol and the latest mystery novel and settle in for some quality ocean time. There are separate areas for swimming and surfing and lifeguards are on duty most of the time, especially during the summer, so as far as safety goes, Mission Beach is a good place to be.

People-watching is also a fun activity here, as the boardwalk channels a constant flow of tourists and Californians alike right through the heart of the beach. Rollerblading, jogging, walking, and biking all keep people whizzing past, and planned or impromptu beach volleyball games ignite an atmosphere of fun and competition along the accompanying stretches of wide open sand.

Come evening, the party gets going at Belmont Beach, where revelers like to gather for music and socializing. There's also the Big Dipper, of course, Mission's famous roller coaster that dips and drops gleeful guests before a beautiful background of sea, sky, and San Diego. Beach fires are also a common sight; they must be made within designated containers and kept to a pretty tame size, but a few friends and a guitar can make for a wonderful evening made magic by a warm, orange glow.

A magnet for socializing and game-playing, Mission is also a great place to host special events. Weddings and large group activities are commonly held here, as are water sport competitions and musical performances. Free public parking makes things easier, and a ramp makes the beach wheelchair accessible as well. Everyone is welcomed to join in the entertainment here at Mission Beach.

This stretch of scenic coastline has a flavorful history beginning in the 1920's. This is when Tent City was created by a community-planning visionary named J.M. Asher. He made it possible to actually live on the beach, which unsurprisingly, many people found attractive. The original neighborhood survives today, serves as a site for several homes and vacation rentals, and represents a colorful part of San Diego's past.

The great part about vacationing with Mission Beach as your headquarters is that all the spectacular sights of the exciting city of San Diego are right at your doorstep. Choosing a vacation property in this location will leave you with many options as far as staying connected to all that is going on in this chock-full-of-diversions county. Simply venturing to adjacent Mission Bay will hook you up with golf courses, an aquatic center, boating, jet skiing, and other recreational opportunities.

You can't visit San Diego without stopping by Sea World to say hello to Shamu, and don't forget about the world-famous zoo, either. Beautiful weather, great shopping and dining, and plentiful cultural opportunities make this one of California's, and in fact America's, favorite tourist destinations. It's a beachgoer's paradise and so much more, so head down to this jewel of a town if you're looking for a relaxing break from your normal life.