Review - San Diego Mission Bay Resort

Rating: 3.5/5

I recently stayed at the Mission Bay Resort near San Diego. This resort offers a mixed bag of experiences, and whether it's the right fit for you depends on your priorities

Starting with the positives, the bay facing rooms provide a great view of the SeaWorld fireworks, which can be quite spectacular. The rooms themselves are large and feature modern beach decor, with balconies to enhance your experience. The resort boasts a spacious pool area with multiple hot tubs, creating a true resort feel. Additionally, the location is ideal for those who want to enjoy a beach vacation with easy access to San Diego attractions, without being in the bustling downtown area. It's also conveniently close to SeaWorld.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Surprisingly, the family resort lacks tubs in the rooms, which may be disappointing for some. Another issue is the noise that can be heard from rooms above, which might be bothersome for light sleepers. Additionally, the pricing during peak times does not necessarily match the value provided when compared to other Southern California resort offerings.

The resort's attention to detail could use some improvement. During my stay, I noticed rust in the bathroom, a damaged lampshade, unscrewed light fixtures, and mismatched light bulb colors. Furthermore, there was a missed housekeeping service on the first day with no indication, and when we called, there was no offer to make up for it.

Be aware that parking at the resort comes at a cost, and unfortunately, there is no valet option available. The quality of poolside drinks and food did not meet resort standards and left much to be desired, with either bland or unpleasant tastes.
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Additionally, it's worth noting that the included Wi-Fi at the Mission Bay Resort was often slow, which can be frustrating for guests who rely on a reliable internet connection. In some cases, staying connected to the cell network might have been a more practical option.

Here are some tips to enhance your stay: 

• Ask for a room with a view of the fireworks.
• Call for late checkout; they may offer a complimentary extension, even if they initially suggest a paid option.
• Ensure your privacy sign is off the door early if you want housekeeping service.
• Book spa appointments prior to your stay, especially during peak times, as availability may be limited.
• Consider bringing your own water bottles, as the ones in the room are priced at $6 each.

We would recommend the Mission Bay Resort for some clients, but with a few caveats. While it offers beautiful views, spacious rooms, and a resort ambiance, there are areas where it falls short. Careful consideration of your priorities and expectations is advised before we make your reservation.

Who It's For

The Mission Bay Resort is well-suited for various types of travelers seeking specific experiences:

1. Families seeking a beach getaway: If you're a family looking for a beach vacation without the need to venture outside the resort, the Mission Bay Resort can be a good choice. It offers comprehensive amenities and activities that cater to families, including spacious rooms and a large pool area.

2. Upscale seekers near SeaWorld: For those who desire an upscale experience near SeaWorld, the resort provides a more elevated option. With its modern beach decor and spacious rooms, it offers a touch of luxury while being in close proximity to the popular attraction.

3. Beachfront enthusiasts with access to San Diego: If you prefer a beachfront property outside of the bustling downtown San Diego area, the Mission Bay Resort offers a convenient solution. It allows you to enjoy a waterfront location while retaining easy access to all the attractions and offerings that San Diego has to offer.