Best Parks in San diego | Alison Hatch Photo
Looking for the perfect park to take the kids and enjoy a beautiful day out? San Diego has so many fantastic options, and I’ve put together a list of some of the best parks in the area. From hidden treasures to classic favorites, there’s something here for everyone!
1. Bonita Cove Park
Address: 1100 W Mission Bay Dr, San Diego, CA 92109
Parking: There’s a large, free parking lot nearby. Arriving early on weekends is a good idea, as it can fill up fast!
Why It’s Great: Bonita Cove is located right by Mission Bay, offering both a big grassy area and a sandy beach. This is a great spot for families with young kids who want to play on the playground and then cool off by the water. There are also picnic tables, barbecue spots, and paved paths for biking or strolling.
Unique Feature: The peaceful bay waters and spacious, green fields make it ideal for family picnics and outdoor games. You’ll feel like you’re on a little escape right in the city.
2. San Diego Botanic Garden
Address: 300 Quail Gardens Dr, Encinitas, CA 92024
Parking: There’s a convenient on-site parking lot, free for members. A small fee applies for non-members.
Why It’s Great: This 37-acre garden is full of themed gardens—from desert landscapes to lush tropical areas. It’s a lovely, peaceful retreat with plenty of places to explore. The Children’s Garden features interactive sculptures, a treehouse, and play spaces that spark kids' imagination.
Unique Feature: The Fairy Forest and Bamboo Garden are both enchanting, making it feel like you’re stepping into another world. It’s a spot where kids and adults alike can let their imaginations run wild!
3. La Mesa “Trash Truck” Park
Address: 4860 Memorial Dr, La Mesa, CA 91942
Parking: Free street parking nearby, with a small lot that can fill up quickly on weekends.
Why It’s Great: Known to locals as “Trash Truck Park,” this place is a hit with kids thanks to the life-size trash truck play structure. Officially named La Mesita Park, it has a playground, skate park, tennis courts, and picnic areas.
Unique Feature: The trash truck play structure! Kids love climbing and pretending they’re part of a real trash truck team, making this a unique and memorable spot for any child who loves vehicles.
4. Children’s Park Downtown San Diego
Address: 200 W Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Parking: Paid street parking or nearby lots are available, with weekends tending to be busier.
Why It’s Great: This small but scenic park is a quiet green escape right in the heart of downtown. With a pond, grassy areas, and pathways lined by trees, it’s a relaxing oasis in the middle of the city.
Unique Feature: The park’s large pond and surrounding trees provide a calming atmosphere perfect for a leisurely day out. The mix of urban energy and natural beauty is uniquely San Diego!
5. Grape Day Park, Escondido
Address: 321 N Broadway, Escondido, CA 92025
Parking: Free parking right by the park, making it easy and accessible.
Why It’s Great: Grape Day Park is packed with charm! It has old train cars, historical murals, a playground, and lots of picnic areas. This park combines history with play, so kids can explore and learn while having a great time.
Unique Feature: The historic train cars and unique art installations make this a fun and educational spot that’s also great for families to enjoy together.
6. Waterfront Park Downtown San Diego
Address: 1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101
Parking: Paid street parking and nearby lots. It’s often easier to find a spot during weekdays.
Why It’s Great: Located right by the harbor, this expansive park has beautiful open lawns, splash fountains for the kids, and stunning views of the city skyline. The interactive water features are a hit with kids on warm days!
Unique Feature: The interactive water fountains make Waterfront Park a splash zone paradise! There’s also a beautiful view of the harbor and cityscape, making it a uniquely scenic place to unwind.
7. Kit Carson Park, Escondido
Address: 3333 Bear Valley Pkwy, Escondido, CA 92025
Parking: Multiple lots throughout the park provide ample free parking.
Why It’s Great: This expansive park has it all—trails, ponds, playgrounds, sports fields, and even an amphitheater. There’s plenty to do, and it’s a perfect spot for kids to explore nature or play with friends.
Unique Feature: Queen Califia’s Magical Circle, a whimsical sculpture garden, is a hidden gem within the park. The colorful mosaics and sculptures add an artistic touch that’s fun and memorable.
8. Lake Poway Park
Address: 14644 Lake Poway Rd, Poway, CA 92064
Parking: Free for Poway residents; a small fee applies for non-residents.
Why It’s Great: Nestled beside Lake Poway, this park is a beautiful retreat with hiking trails, a playground, and picnic areas. Families can rent paddleboats or kayaks to explore the lake, or relax on the shore and enjoy the view.
Unique Feature: The lake itself is a serene focal point. Kids can run around the open grassy areas, and there’s something peaceful and relaxing about spending a day by the water.
Ready to Create Some Memories?
There’s no shortage of fantastic parks to explore in San Diego! These places are perfect for family fun, and if you’d like to capture memories of your family enjoying these beautiful spots, I’d love to help. Reach out to me, Alison Hatch, and let’s make some magic happen!
Hi! I’m Alison Hatch
If you're looking for a photographer who knows San Diego's best spots and truly understands how to capture family moments, I’d love to help! I’m a San Diego-based photographer with a passion for capturing authentic, joyful family memories. My work has been published and featured in various publications like Heartful Magazine, Front Steps Project, 35 mm, and more. With years of experience and a deep love for what I do, I’m here to create beautiful, lasting memories for you and your family. Let’s make some magic together!
