Wow what a great park. We stopped by to check out the out the play ground, and there was also a huge panda event. Which resulted in the playground being loaded with children and families having fun and relaxing in the cool breeze. There are ton of play activities for the kids: blue climbing mountain with slides, cool spaceship looking merry go rounds, swings, climbing, obstacle courses, etc. There are tons of tables, benches, and lots of shady areas for picnics or relaxing while the kids play. It was awesome to find this playground ride down the road from where we were staying. Too bad this is our last full day in San Diego. read more

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This is a big park with a lot of grass area, a fountain, basketball and pickle ball courts, plus an off leash dog park. What more can you ask for? What about great views of the harbor and city skyline on the other side? Yup it has that too. I come here many times with my dogs, as the dog park is a decent size for medium dogs to run around in. The dog area may not have grass, but it has dirt, and is usually kept clean. I actually prefer the dirt compared to artificial turf. Something to note is that there is only one park, so big dogs are combined with small ones. Theres a small obstacle course for dogs to jump and run through. And for the humans, there's also a few benches on the side to sit at. read more

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My friends and I visited this park and it was so nice that afterwards we were thinking to ourselves how much of a utopia San Diego is. We were here after dark, so there was free parking. Lots of lights and there was a security patrolling so we felt safe and huge plus was that we didn't get harassed to leave either. There were still lots of people playing basketball, pickle ball, and tennis, so it wasn't empty or dangerous either. Since we were there at night, everything was closed, but it was nice to see that they have a snack bar, facilities to rent out sports equipment and other items for extracurricular activities, an outdoor washing shower, and much more. I'm sure this is great for the community and youth out there. Park is clean, there's no trash filled trash cans or litter everywhere. The artwork and statues were neat too. The playground is really unique and has a lot of climbing and sliding opportunities for kids. The rock climbing was super interesting, there's a giant climb up nest egg thing, orbs you can sit on, a skateboard balancing thing, a see saw, a mound you can climb up or slide down, swings, and much more. This is great for parents who have kids that need to burn off energy, or adults who are young at heart (though they say there's an age limit on the playground). read more

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This is a great park to begin with, add some awesome Asian food and live music and you have a party. There was so much food, we tried so many different things. This was the first Panda Fest in So Cal and it did not disappoint. I hope they come back next year! It's a wonderful family event with kids performing and so much food! read more

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Seems like an overall good park for families and kids during the daytime and perfect for concerts at nighttime (Obviously not ideal on day of event). Came here for the first time to see Chris Lake and I was excited to see what this venue looks like since it's called "Waterfront" so upon arriving there was check in and then a overhead covering with tables with vendors on the right then the stage is in the front. I enjoyed the sound, vibes and navigation of venue. The view of the bay on the left side was the icing on the cake. I feel like it was dusty though and felt like it was getting kicked up a lot during the concert. I would be interested in going to this park during the day or even playing pickleball here because I see there are pictures of it on their Yelp page. read more

Waterfront Park - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

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San Diego's annual EDM Music Festival "Into the Horizon" took over Waterfront Park again June 21&22 2025 with headliners The Chainsmokers, Alesso, Gryffin, and Sofi Tukker. Vandelux's set, live singing, and supporting saxophone player were a surprise fav performance for me. Compared to last year, I found this year's festival to be less star studded and there were some technical difficulties with audio cutting in and out surprisingly for the Saturday final act. On the plus side there seemed to be a lot more photo opportunities this year and a recharge lounge! read more

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Came here recently for a vegan festival and honestly, the San Diego Waterfront Park did not disappoint. Ocean breeze, city views, jungle gym, and a nice bay view! It's a perfect mix of chill and lively energy. It felt like a mini escape without leaving the city. The festival had everything: vegan tacos, smoothies, cruelty-free goodies, vegan Filipino food whaaaa?? and even vegan tattoos! It was super welcoming vibes all around. Tons of vendors, live music, and happy humans (and dogs). There's a playground nearby for the kiddos and the whole area is super walkable! No excuse for getting extra cardio! Luckily I'm staying 10-15 minutes away, so yes, I'm spoiled. I should be down here every weekend soaking it in. Whether it's a festival or just a casual sunset stroll, this spot is a gem. The Waterfront Park also holds events like music and art festivals, concerts, food truck events, and other festivities. It brings people from all over! read more

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Was here this weekend from the walk for life event. It was awesome and held very well for the amount of support that showed up at this event. The field isn't the biggest but it's a great view of some beautiful ships and it's right near the airport. Parking can be tricky especially if you get to an event late, parking about a block down nearer to the airport can save you the time of spinning the block 15 times. Will be back for next year's walk for life read more

Waterfront Park - Walk for life 2025 - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

Entire family took the Coaster train from Carlsbad Village Station to the nearby Sante Fe Depot specifically for the kids to play on the fountains. Just to see there closed for repairs. Security guard said reopening maybe the end of February '26 or March '26. read more

Waterfront Park - Fountains Closed sign - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

The playground at Waterfront Park is so fun! It's very space-agey and minimalist. Not gonna lie, though: There was a persistent smell of piss everywhere. I don't know if it was just especially ripe because it was a hot day, or the rubberized ground needed to be hosed off, or what. But I couldn't get away from the piss smell, and it followed us to the giant metal slide, the monkey bars, and the picnic benches. Oh, San Diego. I love you, but you also always smell like human waste. Other than the smell, this little park is very unique and a great place to play if you're visiting this area of San Diego. It's within walking distance to many restaurants and the USS Midway Museum. There's also a restroom on site, and a small cafe (called Family Deli) that was serving sandwiches, bagels, salads, coffee and other things. There are also fun art sculptures throughout the park, and kids are encouraged to play and interact with them. read more

Here for Boots in the Park 9/14/2024 It's a huge venue with many security guards/ local officers and sheriffs present . read more

Waterfront Park - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

Took a stroll here with my friends and husband. Beautiful scenery. As we got closer to the waterfront, we saw ships and a huge statue. Lots of tourists here taking pictures by the statue ad well. Perfect place for a stroll and picnic! It was a beautiful day but started to get chilly. I was glad I had a light jacket on me. read more

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Nice park overall well-equipped for both kids and adults, and the view is amazing. It's just a 5-minute walk from my apartment, so we come here often. My little one loves the fountains -- it's his favorite part! That said, it's not always perfect. It can get really noisy, especially when they're building temporary stages or setting up for public events. The loud sound systems can be overwhelming, especially for young kids. And when the fountains are turned off (which sadly happens more often than I'd like), it's a real letdown, my kid gets super bummed every time. Great spot when everything's working, but inconsistent and often too noisy for little ones. read more

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Lovely park. I wish I had time to go through the entire park but it's a nice friendly park read more

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Waterfront Park is gorgeous and a quintessential part of San Diego. The County Building is located in the center of the park. There are a few locations you can get your marriage license in San Diego, but this is easily the most beautiful one. Grab your license and take beautiful photos outside of the building. On an average day, you'll find plenty of kids playing in the water fountains or families enjoying time on the lawn. They also host various events and festivals here. I've been to a yoga class on the lawn and seen many a music fest take place here. Parking in the area can be tricky. There is parking below ground if you are frequenting a government building, but if not, you'll have to pay. Great proximity to Little Italy and the restaurants along the water! read more

One of the largest parks you may find that has the widest views of of the Embarcadero and the many shops of the harbor side forvthe main street of of Harbor Drive for the many buses that travel in front of the park. During the summer the park was so busy for the water fountains that would spray across cooking the waiting area near the bridges . Arriving to the Waterfront Park you cancome from the trolley via the little Italy stop the short down the street across the street. With the city administration building that has the largest part of the block for the memorial they have out front. The many buildings along Harbor Drive were many of the historical locations the many areas along along Harbor from the Lane field to the credence companies that were the assembly locations during the war. The Water Front Park is one of the greatest locations for the many buses that you can catch for the many areas of the North County and Escondido with the view of the many boats which dock at the Broadway Puer. For the large water areas that were active seeing the many relaxing keeping cool after the many cuts the water fountains were closed due to the changes of the Administration building. Being a Yelp Elite Reviewer the many places that I've seen for the many years I've been in San Diego Harbor Drive has been one main street that has had the Holiday Bowl Parade. The Waterfront Park is one place that has been the artistic park of Harbor Drive for many to walk through . One of the great artistic parks of San Diego. read more

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Really enjoyed this park! It's currently having some construction around it so had to walk around a large fence to get to the actual park. The park is clean, spacious, with a great hill with slides, and numerous climbing structures. There was also a security guard and clean bathrooms. Overall a great park to visit with children! read more

This is an amazing park that has everything from climbing structures, monkey bars, water fountain structures to splash in the water & cool looking sculptures to climb on & play. There's free parking near the pier side of the park & Theresa also a parking structure that you have to pay for. Overall, this is a great place to take the kiddos to get all their energy out. read more

Waterfront Park - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

If you have kids, you can potentially spend multiple hours in this area. There are really fun water features for the kids to splash in, a huge area with playground equipment and swings, and even better, a pretty clean bathroom. If you're in the area on the weekends, there's a fun outdoor market at nearby Lane Field Park with a lot of different food options. You can then take your food and bring it over to waterfront park for a lovely picnic. There is a parking garage right next to the staircase entrance that charges $15 for parking. That's actually not that bad of a deal considering street parking is nearly impossible and other lots charge $25. read more

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While the park in itself is beautiful, I absolutely love this venue for concerts! I have attended numerous events at Waterfront, including CRSSD and Boots in the Park. You get a breathtaking view of the sunset from the sidelines of the extended stage that acts as a beautiful backdrop for the performer. The park as a venue is spacious and easily accommodates numerous vendors. As expected, the price of alcoholic beverages are pretty steep, but at least they offer a wide selection of drinks. Only downside is that service is limited when there is a large crowd, so be prepared to stay by your friend's side or potentially lose them for the entirety of the event. read more

Waterfront Park - Amazing views! Great venue for concerts! - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

I'm usually only here during the Rock n' Roll San Diego Marathon. This park has been used as the venue for both the race expo as well as the post race celebration area. Good thing that San Diego weather is normally really nice as the fields are more dirt than grass these days. It could get rather muddy and messy if it rains. The closest MTS Trolley Station is the County Center/Little Italy Station right across the street. That is pretty convenient if you don't feel like driving. read more

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This park is located across from the San Diego Pier and is very long. It is spans a few individual block sections that are separated by streets. It spans 12 acres and surrounds the San Diego County Administration Center. There are metered street parking, and commercial lots/garages available and the closes option is dependent upon what section of the park you go. It is recomend that you either walk/bike or take public transit here. Both sections have a neat reflection pool that has little walkways over them that you can use. People are allowed to go into the reflection pool, but they must be dressed. I think that is cool, but personally I would be scared to do so, because I would feel I was breaking the rules or something. They also have restroom facilities. One side, which is known as the North Garden, has a huge Serpent Tree sculpture by Niki de St Phalle, some dirt paths, and benches to sit on and relax. You will also find plant species that are not usually seen in urban parks in this area as well. The other side of the park has some colorful sculptures featuring a huge baseball player sculpture, titled Baseball Player #19, also by Niki de St Phalle. This is also the side that you will find a playground. It looked liked a nice one, but unfortunately it was closed for maintenance during my visit. It has new/modern equipment and is on a rubbery surface. The park also has an interactive splash fountains that extends from the building and feeds into the reflection pool. It was not running while I was there either. The park is well maintained and was pretty clean. The park is a great place to host special events, including weddings, festivals, farmers markets. I like this park. It gives you a change of pace from the hustle and bustle of downtown. I am rating this park on what it could be and not how it was during my visit. The playground and fountains really make a difference in the park's utility. I am sure that this is a happening spot in the summer. read more

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Came here for boots in the park on 4.6.2024, was a great venue, easy to get to, loved how close it was to the coaster. They had it set up perfectly, wasn't too crowded. Will definitely be looking for more concerts at this location I liked the ease of getting to it and venue so much! read more

Waterfront Park - Boots in the Park April 6, 2024 - right at the end of the vendors and start of the concert area. - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

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I have not been at the Waterfront Park recently but have taken my grand kids on numerous occasions in the past couple years. This place has pretty much everything. I would say, parking can be challenging but somehow or another, I have been lucky in finding parking stalls right in front of grass area. At the most, I have stayed with my grandkids at this park, no longer than 2-3 hours. They have so much fun running through the water fountains and splashing around whenever the water fountain jets out. There's plenty of grass area where I have picnicked before. There are seats available as well, including the ones right around the fountain area. There's a snack shop nearby, along with tables and chairs for your dining needs. It's nice to see that prices are fair and not so gouging. My grandkids have yet to utilize the playground. I think they would like it but are more committed to the water portion of the park. Note, the water park is going through reconstruction. We are looking forward to returning after its completion. Can't wait. read more

Holy crap, this place is gorgeous! With two young kids that each have a penchant for running around, enjoying a good playground, I've got a fair number of nice parks under my belt. Their favorites tend to be the closest or whichever one we're going to at the moment; I'm a fan of parks that give everyone something to do. And man, oh, man does Waterfront have something for everybody. There's a huge amount of beautiful grounds with enough room to spread out, host shows and concerts, and allow space between different groups. There's a huge playground with climbing walls, swings, bars, and a central mound kids can walk up and slide down along all sides of it. There's a large water park to help the masses of kids stay cool during the hotter months. And there's the stunning view of San Diego Bay and the large, wooden ships docked right next to the park. I like to think that a large park should be a center of pride and beauty for a city. With Waterfront Park right next door to City Hall embodying everything a glorious park should be, San Diego is well represented and I look forward to any chance to coming back down here in the future. read more

This is SUCH a fun place! We take the trip down sometimes and the kids always have a good time. The bathrooms are clean, the fountain water actually tastes decent and the food and drink shop attached is reasonably priced! Parking isn't hard to find during the week (we haven't come during the weekend). There's plenty of trees around with shaded area for the parents to sit or kids to rest. The playground equipment is UTD and well structured. Despite the slides being metal, my children have not complained about it being too hot. As of a few days ago, parking along the water was $7.50 for 3 hours. There's also a few tables on the sidewalk of the corner of Harbor with cute miscellaneous items being sold. An excellent way to get your kids energy out and enjoy beautiful San Diego! read more

Great place to take the little ones and enjoy a scenic view. It has a small vending station and clean restrooms. read more

Waterfront Park - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

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Waterfront park is a pretty interesting place, it's just getting really run down and it's hard to keep an eye on little ones because of the big hill, they just disappear from sight. The equipment is pretty scary, it's all metal, the slides are insanely steep and it's a mix bigger kids and little ones. So it's always a risk if your toddler is gonna get slammed by a kid coming down the slide at 80mph. Again, it's hard to keep an eye on the kids when the climb the hill to the slides so you either need to free range your kids or go up and down yourself. I hope you have good knees. That said this place is very close to the Coaster so you can take public transit and my kid always has a blast when we go. So far no ER trips. There's always next time. read more

In San Diego, money is rarely needed to take care of one's own wellness. You can run, sleep, meditate, play solitaire, or bask in the sun. This is what I do on days when my thoughts that try to interfere with my sunshine. Free. Beauty. Sunshine. Low key. My own Cabana. Want to join? read more

Waterfront Park - Everyday is a day of gratitude to rejuvenate. - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

What a dream. You've got city views and the bay. Plenty of space for kids to run around and there are even playgrounds and a water installation for them. For adults there's lots of room for a picnic and plenty of wonderful people watching. There are usually food trucks nearby and you're steps away from some of SD's best restaurants. Even if you aren't planning to spend the afternoon here, it's worth driving by for the views of the city & bay. It's also where a lot of the large outdoor events happen in SD, so you may want to check the calendar before making your plans to head downtown. Parking is already tough and event days make them way harder. It's worth the hunt to enjoy the park though! read more

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Great place to bring the family and chill for a few hours. Generally clean. Security on premises. A little cafe you can buy food. Splash pad type fountains and recently redone playground with a water view. Never too crowded. Parking underground for like 15 on the weekends. read more

Waterfront Park - Splash pad type fountain - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

It is a modern looking park split into two sections separated by a municipal building. One side has a children-centered playground and sprinklers while the other side has open lawn. The greatest feature is the proximity to the bay with a cityscape. It is across the street from the port. It is a pretty park but unless you are with kids, it feels like it is more for looks than recreation. I wish it had more features. On this day, there was a food truck so it can be nice for a lunch break. It is minutes from Little Italy. There is metered parking, but since it's downtown spaces can be hard to find. Note that the port spaces charge seven days a week. read more

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I've been coming to this park for the past eight years. It was my daughters firs real baby swing! Did my son's fourth birthday party there and he got to have Batman show up and do all the activities with him. It was one of the most memorable birthdays he's ever had so far even Batman himself was impressed and said to us that this is the funnest he's ever had at a birthday. Waterfront Park is very sentimental to my family and I'm always happy to go back so please let's keep it clean, safe & fun for children always!! read more

Waterfront Park - Fourth of July - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

What a lovely spot in the heart of San Diego! It was 80-something degrees when I was on my run going past here - tons of kids playing in the water.. fountain? Structure? Not sure what to call it, but the kids were loving it. (Are you supposed to play in it?) It was so hot I was tempted to join them! Very cool looking water display that photographs well - nice little scenic sight near downtown! 2021: 15/100 read more

Waterfront Park - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

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OMG! My sister who lives in San Diego brought us here with the kids to the splash park! This place is amazing for children. I can't recommend this enough. Where to start? So much to do, endless water play - kiddos literally couldn't get enough of it. And then a huge playground with so much to explore. Absolutely lovely. Get there early, find parking and plan to have sandos on the lawns or grab food nearby. Brilliant day outing. Can't wait to visit again when we are back to SD! read more

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This is such a cool park for kids. Right across from the harbor with an epic looking pirate ship looming over the skyline. My four year old son loved the water area and ran across all three little pools back and forth for maybe an hour, while my baby delighted in the people watching. Portal Coffee across the street served up some clutch delicious iced coffees on a hot morning. My only complaint is the lack of shade over the play area and some of the equipment was too hot to use, and it was only 85 degrees or so. Putting some artificial shade or opting for a heat tolerant surface would make it a five star place, but maybe I was tired of hearing my kid complaining about the heat on our summer vacation. Regardless, awesome city park and another reason why San Diego is fun to visit with kids as there is a lot for them to enjoy-and craft beer and coffee for the parents! read more

Definitely worth the price of admission. If you love San Diego and the beautiful bay, this is the place to be to enjoy the views and water. With a clean restroom and endless amounts of water, it's ideal to relax and fill down. There is also a small snack spot and security guard. This place is safe, easily accessible and has ample parking. I'll be back for sure when in the area. Gotta love San Diego! read more

Waterfront Park - Beautiful - Parks Near Me - San Diego, California

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A great space for a day exploring downtown San Diego, perfect for any occasions, family gathering, or just your kid and dogs enjoy the water fountain and playground. I have been here so many times for different events, CSRD music festival, Taco Fest, Rock N Roll Marathon back in 2017 and again of this year 2023. Next to the San Diego courthouse and across from Star of India ship which is the most picked for people who got their wedding photo taken, I did in 2012 ;) The parking was just bad around here, if you want to pay for it, that's fine, plenty of them range between $15 to $25 to $35 and more depends on what kind of events happening around the area. During the marathon, the streets got shut down so you have to plan ahead for either take the trolley, uber, or come early like me and find street parking about 3 blocks down on Pacific Hwy, if it's a Sunday, you're lucky as all the parkings are free, if not try your best to not getting a tickets :) read more

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Perfect place to bring the dogs and/or kids to hang out for some fun in the sun! Enjoy the water jets & of course the waterfront, complete with a jungle gym to run around. They have benches there or just spread a blanket out & indulge in a nice picnic, complete with adult beverages #BYOB Parking can be tricky but such is life in Downtown Sun Diego. read more

Horrible venue management, VIP was completely overrun by GA ticket holders. Completely ruined the one and only time I'll be able to see Sublime live. read more