Waterfront Park

Park · County Administration Center

Waterfront Park

Park · County Administration Center

1

1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101

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Waterfront Park by null
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Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
Waterfront Park by null
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Waterfront Park by null
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Highlights

Nestled in the heart of downtown San Diego, Waterfront Park dazzles with expansive lawns, playful fountains, and modern playgrounds for endless family fun.  

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1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101 Get directions

sdparks.org

Information

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1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101 Get directions

+1 619 232 7275
sdparks.org

Features

wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance
parking bike
crowd family friendly

Last updated

Jul 22, 2025

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@afar

"San Diego’s newest public space, the 12-acre Waterfront Park offers a large playground, wide expanses of green grass, jets of water for splashing, and great views of the skyline. Bring an umbrella—there isn’t a lot of shade here—then spread out with a picnic and relax. There’s a fee to leave your car in the garage under this spot, but you can easily get here by taking the Trolley to the Santa Fe Depot. The park is also a short walk from neighborhoods like Downtown, Little Italy, and the East Village."

The Best Things to See and Do in San Diego
View Postcard for Waterfront Park

Mike Kapusta

Google
Great place to finish off our West Coast cruise! Be sure to take in the San Diego Maritime Museum . Several historic ships to tour, as well as the displays and gift shop in the floating museum. And for Just $10 more, take the scenic harbor cruise that goes past several other notable ships, under the breathtaking Coronado Bridge and by some of the most exclusive homes and hotels San Diego has to offer.

Sean Baldino

Google
Very clean and safe for downtown. Grateful for the security and police in the area. Looking forward to the water features to be up and running again.

Helper

Google
Fascinating place. Beautiful sea view, plus the big ships from the Maritime Museum. You can see planes descending to the airport every minute. Plenty of paid parking before 8pm, check pics for details.

Andree Andrade

Google
They had a live music show going on at the county administration building. I got a great view and the screens and laser show and the music … I could actually feel the bass throb through me , all while I was standing across the street on harbor drive on the Embarcadero.

Table 4 One

Google
Came here for a walk after eating at a local spot. Extremely spacious, many places to sit, play basketball, pickleball and a brand new dog park. Highly Recommend this location…It’s not a 5 star because the bathrooms are sketchy and the security guards follow you and stare you down…a little uncomfortable but understating. Great Views. Simply Beautiful.

J • B •

Google
Fantastic blend of urban green space and waterfront views! Minutes away walking distance from the Maritime Museum. Interactive fountains, expansive lawns, and playgrounds - great place for families, ideal spot for relaxation, some sports and recreation.

Darcy Faegre

Google
This is a good place to sit and stare out at the ocean or people watch. There was a gentleman here who is an incredibly good kite flyer and he would sneak up behind people with his kite and surprise them. We had a lot of fun watching him for a few minutes and walking around the place. Very busy on the weekend but still pleasant.

Bryan Aranda

Google
Crssd festival was cool and lineups was well worth the travel alone but let’s talk about the venue. Dead grass so what do they mean by the “beautiful view of the venue will be worth it” Is this the glen helen?. Don’t understand why the no smoke rule but so much beer stands everywhere where lots of people couldn’t handle being well mannered on the drinks; being rude and obnoxious you think this was a insomniac event happening. Why the heckling of volume house when you’re next to the waters.. The ocean will always be an abundance of loud noise so why not have it up a bit louder. The locals won’t mind the music if it’s helping out the city’s tourism for bringing in like minded music fans. Wish fgnrs crssd had more options to do more events at different locations but given the city there probably isn’t much venues to play at unfortunately. Had to give this place a one star for having the waters off at the waterfront! Such false advertising some may say lol 😂😭😒
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Abigail P.

Yelp
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
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M A.

Yelp
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.
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Courtney O.

Yelp
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!
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Nicole S.

Yelp
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.
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Sherry W.

Yelp
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.
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Joel C.

Yelp
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.
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Vuoch L.

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

Yelp
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.
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Gina J.

Yelp
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.
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Kimquyen L.

Yelp
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.
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Tiffany R.

Yelp
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!
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Destany K.

Yelp
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!
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Erika A.

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

Yelp
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.
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Caleb T.

Yelp
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.
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Tank G.

Yelp
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.
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Christopher D.

Yelp
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.
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Erica I.

Yelp
My family loved coming here! The parking can be a pain, but that's expected when heading anywhere downtown! The splash pad is a fun way for the kids to stay cool after playing at the park. The slide they have can be aggressive...meaning kids/adults slide down fairly fast so be careful! My kids did fine with that but I did see some other kiddos get scared/worried when on it. The bathrooms aren't that clean which sucks but again, it's a park and a place a LOT of people have access too. I wish there was more shade but there is plenty of space to have a picnic at, just bring your own shade and you're set!
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Stephanie L.

Yelp
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.
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Sal A.

Yelp
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!!
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HUNGRY F.

Yelp
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.
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K B.

Yelp
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?
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Anne F.

Yelp
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!
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John H.

Yelp
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.
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Gary N.

Yelp
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 :)
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Heliana M.

Yelp
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!
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Joanna M.

Yelp
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!
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Carmen H.

Yelp
Waterfront Park is a nice park to just hang out if you're in the area. It's also a venue for events, so you might end up there. Pretty peaceful spot with benches to sit at. As far as parking, there is metered street parking and potentially free parking further away if you are willing to make a trek. Definitely with a visit if you like parks and checking out the local San Diego scenery.
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Kristin Leigh M.

Yelp
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
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Roger D.

Yelp
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.
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Leo H.

Yelp
I know this is a type of recreation park for the people of San Diego but in the summer, when it is hot, and there are drought conditions...Hmmm. I don't know if this is the best use of clean water. Not sure what the alternative would be but it seems like a lot of water is wasted. Every time I go by I am a bit surprised at the water waste in a city that wants us to cut back.
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Bacong F.

Yelp
We have stayed at the residence in close by to be close to the park. Nice troll and sometimes they have events at the lawn area. There is also a snack bar at the park. Good place to chill.
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Sarah Y.

Yelp
After eating brunch in Little Italy, we decided to walk to Waterfront Park to enjoy the rest of the sunny afternoon. I was surprised to see the park's immaculacy, especially for being in the middle of an urban metropolitan. It's the quintessential park for young families, equipped with a new playground, restrooms, a riveting sculpture and manicured lawns. The playground is currently off-limits due to COVID, but I can imagine it being an excellent place for kids to play and roam around. Nevertheless, the fountain area is still open to the public, and many families were enjoying it. Restrooms were open, and I noticed a security guard walking around the perimeter. I think this park would be a nice place to host a socially-distanced picnic on the grass surrounded by San Diego skyscrapers and overlooking clippers and the water across the street.
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Arnel D.

Yelp
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!
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Hannah N.

Yelp
Waterfront Park is known for holding some incredible events and festivals along with the perfect spot for a picnic in the afternoon. Last night it cooled down enough that I thought I would go enjoy an evening stroll around Little Italy and found myself walking down by the park. It is very well lit at night between the park and the buildings and boats around town and is also pretty quiet for a nice relaxing way to enjoy the evening. Definitely a great spot to stroll around and take in some of the stunning views of San Diego.
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Rexie S.

Yelp
I've been to several events at this location. The most recent Boots in the Park featuring Blake Shelton. This by far was the best event set up for this location. The food and drink lines weren't as long as previous events. Well staffed. Perfect photo background props around the park. We played corn hole, beer pong, and jenga. Great location for concerts!
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Connor L.

Yelp
I've finally been able to enjoy this park! For once I'm back in the city, the park is finished, and it's open. The city did a great job with this park. It has everything! Kid areas, grassy knolls for picnics and pups, and the fantastic water feature that is a tranquil even with the hordes of frolicking children that are always splashing about. There are benches and picnic tables throughout the park and shade trees. I love all of the commissioned art pieces that iconic to San Diego, too. Downtown has needed this neighbourhood park for many years and I am happy that we live close enough to walk the pup to it often.
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Lauren L.

Yelp
When visiting San Diego (from out of state) we go Downtown so our kids can play at Waterfront Park. The views of the water and the city are lovely. The playground is so fun for the kids. There are swings, climbing structures, slides and a big hill! The ground is a softer rubbery type. There are some trees for shade. There is a walk up restaurant that has food and drinks. I had iced coffee. There are restrooms. The restrooms are fine and what's to be expected at a playground. Thankfully, they were clean and working. Next to the playground is the water area. There are big concrete steps leading down to the very shallow water area where the kids can splash around. The spouting fountains are fun. There is also a nice sized field where you can lay our towel or blanket. Security is present. Our six year old actually fell on the steps and they were present to help and offer further assistance if needed. (Fortunately, she was ok. But it was reassuring to know they were there for help.) The park is within easy walking distance of Downtown and the waterfront. We parked in a pay lot about two blocks away.
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Alycia A.

Yelp
What a great family area to enjoy! My friends and I walked the short walk from the farmers market to this perfect waterfront park. On a bright sunny day, there isn't too much shade so make sure to wear sunscreen. Our kids loved the kids park, the slide and all of the climbing apparatuses. There is a large grassy area so make sure to bring a blanket and snacks for a picnic! If you don't have snacks, no worries, there is a small snack bar that sells sandwiches, ice cream and more. The ice cream was a perfect treat on a hot day! The water fountains are perfect to get your feet wet in or for your kids to run through and enjoy. They do have a security guard who walks around and reminds you that dogs are not allowed in the water. They frequently hold events at this location. We went when they had the beer and dogs festival. This park has a gorgeous view of the bay and palm trees, I loved just sitting their and reflecting at San Diego's beauty. We will return again soon!
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Wayne K.

Yelp
Overall, this is a really nice park with a lot of activities for kids and it also has a great view of the water. I think the only downside for me is that there are parts of the park that seemed a little more sketchy where I didn't feel I could totally relax with my baby. Maybe I was being paranoid, but since this park is free and in such a central location with lots of parking, you get a pretty diverse crowd of people. Some who looked a bit more "thuggish" than I was expecting I guess. Anyway, overall, it's a nice park, but I probably wouldn't come here again as there are more family friendly places to go in San Diego.
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Jenni H.

Yelp
B-E-A-UTIFUL. It is so crazy to me how San Diego can boast so many different, beyond beautiful views. Downtown Waterfront Park wasn't a destination for us, but we just so happened to stumble upon it. We were pleasantly surprised! I'd without a doubt spend an afternoon here with my kiddos... perhaps have a picnic on the grassy lawn and let them play at the playground or splash around in the fountains. The views are stellar. A must see for an out of towner, such as myself!
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Desmond F.

Yelp
A beautiful location right on the harber and the courthouse in downtown SD. Perfect for a stroll, pictures, a simple wedding at the nearby marriage hut, or just for the kids to cool off in the water display. A really laid back park on the way to some of the other sightseeing places in beautiful San Diego.
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Valerie T.

Yelp
GORGEOUS!! I am so happy with the waterfront park. It's such a serene area with flowing water for kids to play in, luscious grass to have a picnic with family or just enjoy the view, and absolutely gardens with unique artwork. Plus a large kid friendly park. It's an area for anyone to enjoy. As a tourist you can run along the waterfront to seaport to enjoy a nice meal or continue your run all the way to convention center or Padres stadium. You can't forget about the museums on the water to remind us of the past and how fortunate we are. This is such a Senegal location and gorgeous way to spend a day in lovely San Diego. **Tip if you need a place to clear your mind nothing will beat the abundance or people watching it is sure to bring you a smile with the hustle and bustle of visitors and residents.
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Danielle R.

Yelp
I have passed by here so many times and wanted to stop with my kids and finally had the opportunity on a Sunday afternoon. There was some street parking all around the park and there is a parking garage under ground at the park. I found a space across the street at the water near the Star of India. Crossing to get the park was easy and then we were ready to play! We walked by the water fountain areas but the water was sooo cold so I held my son back and we went right to the play area. I noticed right away that this playground is not meant for a 3-year-old at all. This playground has a lot of climbing and bigger structures that my toddler was not the greatest at. The slides are up on a hill that is very steep and hard to climb and the although the slides are fun, they are way too fast. I flew down and off of it and my kid truly went flying and fell right on his face. He went back up a couple of times, but I could tell it was a bit too much for him. Also, the sun was shining pretty strong, and the slides are all metal and it was burning to get on them. We loved to walk around and explore the structures but we didn't do much playing. It just was too big for my son. I liked that there were bathrooms available. I didn't get them out so I am not sure how good of condition they are. There is also a little snack shack there were you can get some lunch and drinks if you are there for a while. Overall, this was pretty nice. There is a lot of grass to play on, I know if it is hot my son would have loved the water fountains, but the playground was just a bit too much for us. I am sure I will re-visit in a few years when my kid is older and have a lot of fun.
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Bradly P.

Yelp
Woo-hoo as good as it gets! This is literally the spot for kids to get loose and have a awesome time! This family favorite is located Downtown San Diego off of either Pacific Highway or Harbor Drive in between Ash and Grape St! So what are you waiting for? Hurry up pack your snacks, packs your lawn chairs, and pack your kids to visit one of the best public city parks the States has to offer in the beautifully known city as the Americas Finest city San Diego! This park literally has everything a child could want in a park ranging from slides, monkey bars and even a huge water park that sprays water out! The park is built very well in that keeping in mind for the small kids who need safety swings, or equipment they can get on and still have a good time. They have 2 huge big slides in which 1 goes straight down while another has a couple humps in it. They have monkey bars, swings, and also alot of different style of trapezes such as a sphere. They also have a 4 person sea saw whe any kid would have a blast on as well as a huge sitting swing where you can fit multiple people on and have a wonderful time. The most beautiful thing I personally believe is the view of Downtown San Diego in the back with the beautiful waterfront bay you get while visiting here. For runners you can run circles around here non stop and not get tired by the ambience and good vibes you get by other runners. The park also offers a waterpark where they spray water out for kids to get loose and wet while enjoying a beautiful day. The water doesnt come to high but maybe 2 -4 inches as where kids and also adults can get a relief of the shining sun San Diego has to offer. There's plenty of grassy green area to throw a football or baseball or even have a picnic in the lawn as where I see a lot of families do. During the weekends I see a lot of yoga activities being held here as well as a lot of community activist get together since the main building there is the San Diego county clerk office. This is a absolute family favorite when deciding to soak in some sun while enjoying the fresh air breeze and spending time with family or friends. Hands down one of the best parks the city has to offer and you can absolutely come here and spend a dime for rest and relaxation! Please come to San Diego's Waterfront Park to have a great time and still keep the pockets heavy!
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David H.

Yelp
It's a park. I personally have a weird feeling about the water part. I've let me kids play there because if I don't I feel like I'm making my kids miss out on San Diego native stuff, but at the same time I cringe at the thought that in the past year I've seen bums take a leak there. I let about a year pass since I saw that event, but I don't even know if the city has a disinfectant or a water purifier in place so I figured and hoped that it had been cleaned since then... it probably hasn't... anyway. The playground is always crazy crowded, the slide is dangerously exciting for my kids, they like it, but they're also afraid of it, so it's okay I guess. The other play areas are so-so. They could be maintained better as I've seen piles of poo on the floor. I can't tell if it's a dog or a human pop sometimes. The bathrooms are disgusting! I take my kids there if they can't hold it, but I rather walk to a nearby business, spend $15 bucks on the cheapest thing they have just so they can pee there. Bring a Hazmat Suit. Call me sensitive, weak or whatever, but they are gross and nasty. The grass area is okay as well. Just be ready to have your kids ask what that smell is ... Weed. I don't partake, but people please be respectful!!! I have personally seen people be rude about it. Yeah "Merica" whatever you wanna say, just keep your skunk ass smoke in your area, you freaking closet Olivia Rodrigo / Lord Huron listening hipsters!
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Arlene P.

Yelp
Covid review #79 When I first heard they were putting in the waterfront park, I didn't really care. But over the years, I've walked the park, played on the playground... it's actually a pretty fun workout. Ive witnessed kids smiling, families gathering, couples strolling and this year, I'd never have thought it, but it has become the backdrop of so many peaceful protests. I posted two of the most recent that someone sent me. So there is something for everyone. On a sunny day or even if it's a little overcast, check out this unique feature southwest of Little Italy and northwest of downtown. What was once a new park is now becoming a San Diego staple landmark.
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Huey B.

Yelp
San Diego Waterfront park is right next to the San Diego Administration building between Harbor Drive and the PCH in beautiful downtown SD. Location: In the heart of downtown San Diego tugged in between the Wyndham and the Courthouse. Plenty of street parking but be prepared to pay at the meter. Atmosphere: For sure one of the best places to be while in beautiful SD. Make sure you stop by and check out the historic Courthouse. It's a fun place to be and to watch all the activity here. If you have kids make sure you take them to the huge playground, they will love it!! Enjoy.
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Annemarie P.

Yelp
Parking is troublesome but the park is very large with lots of room for different activities - water fountains and playgrounds for kids to play in, chess tables, bocce ball area, large grass lawn, food hut, and sculptures