Sometimes a truly rewarding wander starts with a coffee, floats on the bay, and wraps up with a brunch that’ll leave you blissfully stuffed. If you’re in San Diego, Mission Bay is calling your name! Paddleboarding, sunshine, sea lions, and croissants—this wander has it all.
Step 1: Fuel Up (Because You’ll Need It)
Let’s be real: no one is their best self when they’re hangry. So, start your day at The Point Creperie located at 4651
Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109 in Pacific Beach. This spot is an absolute gem, a family-owned café just a block from the ocean. Their coffee? Fabulous. Their crepes? Sweet, savory, or stuffed with whatever your heart desires. Not to mention, their pastry case is basically a treasure chest of goodies. I went with a Nutella and banana crepe because, honestly, life’s too short to skip Nutella.Are you ready? You’ll need fuel for what’s about to come.
Step 2: Gear Up for Paddleboarding
Now, if you’re newer to paddleboarding or just don’t have the space for those massive hardboards, let me put you onto something: inflatable paddleboards. My FunWater Board from Amazon is a game-changer.
It’s lightweight, easy to store, and super simple to inflate (especially with the FunWater pump that plugs into your car). Seriously, it’s so easy it almost feels like cheating.
Before you hit the water, here are some tips to keep your board afloat in style:
- Put the fins on after you inflate (you’re welcome).
- Make sure the air nozzle is up and locked before screwing on the cap to avoid a sinking board situation. Yes, I learned this the hard way.
- Stand on your board on dry land first to test if it supports your weight. No one wants an unexpected dip in the bay right off the bat.
- Make sure you have a dry bag that is attached to the board for all your goodies. You don’t want to have to go diving for dollars or your car keys!
Step 3: Let’s Hit the Bay
Once you’re all geared up, it’s time to head to Bonita Cove Park 1100 W Mission Bay Dr, San Diego, CA 92109. Trust me, this spot is where it’s at. Park in the south lot near the brown restroom (because proximity matters when hauling a paddle board). If you get here before 11 a.m., you’ll score parking. Get here before 8 a.m. if you want glassy, wind-free water that makes you feel like a paddle boarding pro.
Bonita Cove is a dream—calm, protected, and perfect for beginners or anyone who just wants to take it slow. My sister and I paddled out, soaking in the cool water, warm sun, and the postcard-perfect views of charming bay houses and people enjoying their day. The sky was a brilliant blue, and the vibe? Absolutely perfect.
But we didn’t stop there. Oh no, we crossed the channel to Quivira Basin. This inlet is next-level cool, with a floating pier in the middle and sea lions lounging like they’re on vacation. A fishing boat was unloading its catch, and let me tell you, the sea lions were living their best lives catching scraps that fell overboard.
We paddled, floated, snapped photos, and just soaked it all in. It was one of those “I want to stay here forever” kind of moments. We eventually, turned around and leisurely paddled back to Bonita Bay. Someone may have fallen in once or twice, but hey, the water felt so refreshing!
Step 4: Brunch Like You Mean It
After all that paddling, we were starving. So, we dried off, packed up, and made a beeline for The French Gourmet located at 960 Turquoise St, San Diego, CA 92109.
They've been in business for over forty years, and they sure know how to deliver on taste and service. This spot is a vibe—outdoor dining, a full bar, and a menu that’ll make your taste buds sing. They have reservations on OpenTable which makes it all easy to roll up and roll on in. We got cozy on the shaded patio, and our server Antonio made sure we had everything we needed for a fine and fabulous time.
Here’s what we ordered because, obviously, we don’t mess around when it comes to food:
- Egg white breakfast burrito with tomatillo sauce and jalapeños. Light, zesty, and absolutely delicious.
- Croque Madame on a croissant—just imagine buttery, flaky perfection topped with béchamel sauce, ham, and a fried egg.
- French Toast because dessert for breakfast is always a good idea. They drizzel it with chocolate sauce, because, CHOCOLATE! Soooooo yummy!!
And let’s not forget the French bread with butter. I could’ve eaten an entire loaf on my own. Everything was perfection, including the fact they brew a terrific cup of coffee served with fresh cream.
Step 5: Bask in Your Perfect Day
Mission Bay / Pacific Beach in San Diego gave us everything we needed: adventure, sunshine, wildlife, and a brunch that dreams are made of. Whether you’re a paddle boarding newbie or a seasoned pro, this is the kind of wander that fills your soul (and your stomach).
So, grab your board, your bestie, and your appetite, and get out there. Mission Bay is waiting to show you the time of your life. Until next time, happy wandering!
Eat well. Move well. Wander Well.
Lyn, WanderLynTravel
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