Discover 535 Acres of Outdoor Adventures, Waterfront Dining and Hidden Gems Along San Diego Bay

Stretching along the sun-drenched edge of San Diego Bay, the Chula Vista Bayfront is no longer San Diego’s best-kept secret—it’s the ultimate playground for adventurers, leisurists and staycationers alike. Thanks to a visionary 535-acre redevelopment project between the Port of San Diego and the city of Chula Vista, this waterfront gem is transforming into a world-class destination designed for living, working and—most importantly—playing.

From new public parks and restored wetlands to exciting recreation, shopping, dining, and a stunning new hotel and convention center, the Chula Vista Bayfront is reimagining what it means to enjoy the coast. With scenic bike paths, outdoor art installations, eco-tours and new resorts popping up along the horizon, this revitalized stretch is quickly becoming the go-to spot for locals craving an unforgettable escape without ever leaving town. 

Whether you’re hopping on a paddleboard, indulging in a seaside spa day or stargazing from your premium RV campsite, this Chula Vista Bayfront staycation challenge dares you to do it all—and enjoy every sun-soaked minute of it. Let’s dive in, shall we?

 

Check-in to the All-New Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center

San Diego just got a serious upgrade with the debut of the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center. This $1.3 billion coastal marvel redefining what it means to stay, play and celebrate in Chula Vista. Anchored on the scenic bayfront, just seven miles from downtown, this new West Coast flagship offers sweeping marina views. The amenities are larger than life. Think sun-soaked days at the wave pool and a lazy river through tropical landscaping. The splash zone keeps the kids so entertained they forget all about screen time.

There’s also a full-sized arcade game room and a thrilling waterslide for nonstop fun. Parents can unwind with cocktails at Shallow End Grill—it’s your new favorite vacation orbit. Inside, the magic keeps going with a 75-foot screen at Growlers Sports Bar. Fresh lobster dinners and the vibrant Oeste Atrium Bar are ready to wow your taste buds. In total, there are more than 10 diverse dining destinations on property to explore.

Beyond its bold design and eye-popping amenities, the Gaylord Pacific is making waves as a next-gen hub for both celebration and connection. With 1,600 coastal-chic rooms, 89 elevated suites and nearly half a million square feet of meeting space, this Chula Vista resort is tailor-made for conferences, weddings, galas and everything in between. But don’t let the event-forward layout fool you—this is also a true SoCal escape, where poolside cocktails and modern interiors meet world-class hospitality. Whether you’re checking in for business or bliss, the Gaylord Pacific on San Diego Bay delivers a coastal state of mind with every detail.

 

Picnic, Pedal and Bird-Watch

Looking for the ultimate outdoor adventure on the Chula Vista Bayfront? Start at Sweetwater Park, a 39-acre green space adjacent to the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge and the Living Coast Discovery Center where sweeping bay views, salty breezes and bird sightings abound. Settle into a shady picnic table, then keep your eyes peeled for egrets, herons and hawks gliding overhead. This family-friendly park features 2.5 miles of trails, a nature-themed playground and a can’t-miss 25-foot tall sculptural artwork—“Rigors of Flight”—which is an artist’s tribute to flight along the Pacific flyway of migrating birds.

Once you’ve had your fill of snacks and scenery, hop on a bike and hit the Sweetwater Bike Path & Promenade. Rent a cruiser from the nearby Gaylord Pacific Resort and follow the smooth, winding path through marshes, native gardens and postcard-worthy lookout points. The trail stretches all the way to Chula Vista Bayside Park and links to the larger Bayshore Bikeway, making it easy to turn your leisurely ride into an all-day bayfront adventure.

 

Play on the Bay With R&R Surf Rentals

Ready to make a splash? R&R Surf Rentals turns your average day on the San Diego coast into a next-level water adventure. You can rent a pontoon boat for a DIY bay cruise or hop on one of their Hobie Eclipse elliptical paddle boards—a hybrid watercraft that lets you “walk” on water. But the real magic happens at golden hour. Their sunset tours glide past the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge, giving you front-row seats to Mother Nature’s evening show. Whether you’re navigating by paddle or motor, this is the kind of peaceful thrill that defines a perfect Chula Vista staycation.

 

Embark on a Paddle Birding Eco Tour With CV Watersports

If the idea of combining wildlife-watching with a killer arm workout appeals to you, don’t miss the Paddle Birding Eco Tour with CV Watersports. This two-hour guided adventure lets you explore the Chula Vista Wetlands via stand-up paddleboard or kayak, with sightings of bat rays, sea turtles and endangered birds like the Least Tern. You’ll glide through serene channels where every ripple reveals something new—so keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready. CV Watersports also offers paddle board lessons, which is another great way to enjoy the bay.

Local Insight: Stop by the Kayak Cafe! This mobile coffee bike operates next to CV Watersports and is the perfect spot to grab a refreshing drink or a pastry.

 

Meet a Sea Turtle at the Living Coast Discovery Center

Just down the bay, the Living Coast Discovery Center offers a more personal look at San Diego Bay’s coastal creatures. Schedule a sea turtle meet-and-greet for a behind-the-scenes encounter with Emerald, Living Coast’s charismatic resident green sea turtle. This 15-minute private experience includes sea turtle enrichment activities that are perfect for families or anyone wild about animals. Set on a protected wildlife refuge, the Living Coast also features exhibits on native marine life, raptors, desert critters and more—all designed to inspire conservation and connection to the coastal environment.

 

Refresh Your Body and Mind at Relâche Spa

After a day of sun and sea, there’s no better place to unwind than Relâche Spa at the brand-new Gaylord Pacific Resort. This luxurious wellness sanctuary offers a full menu of massages, body wraps, facials and more—all housed within the resort’s ultra-modern sanctuary with separate lounges for men and women, and steam rooms. Whether you’re detoxing with a paraffin hand treatment or indulging in a couples massage, Relâche is your reset button in spa form.

 

Glamp on the Coast at Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay

For an overnight stay that feels like summer camp meets boutique resort, Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay delivers. Pull in with your RV or rent one of their fully appointed vacation cottages. This upscale RV resort offers full hookups and landscaped pads—all minutes from the bay. With activities, amenities and that salty ocean air, it’s the perfect basecamp for your staycation adventures.

 

Enjoy a Golden Hour Dinner + Live Music at Galley at the Marina

No Chula Vista Bayfront staycation is complete without a golden hour dinner by the water. Galley at the Marina delivers with breezy waterfront views, hearty comfort food and a vibrant local vibe. Start with fresh ceviche or the crispy Coco Cabana Shrimp,. Then dig into house favorites like the Ribeye Steak Gorgonzola or their World Famous Fish & Chips. Pair these with a strong Mai Tai or Marina Mule.

As the sun sets, live bands bring the patio to life on weekends, creating the perfect backdrop for alfresco dining and dancing under the stars. Feeling brave? Head back on Thursdays for karaoke night, where locals steal the spotlight. And if you’re arriving by boat, their dock-and-dine slips let you float right into the fun.

 

Explore the Port’s Chula Vista Art Walking Tour

End your San Diego staycation on a creative note with the Chula Vista Art Walking Tour, a self-guided stroll that weaves through a collection of outdoor sculptures and installations that bring the bayfront to life. These pieces offer a moment of reflection and a sense of place. The tour showcases both bold statement works and subtle surprises tucked into parks and promenades. It thoroughly proves that art doesn’t just belong in galleries.

 

Can You Do It All?

The Chula Vista Bayfront staycation challenge isn’t just a bucket list. It’s a bold invitation to rediscover your own backyard in the most adventurous (and indulgent) way possible. Whether you check off all nine activities in one weekend or spread them out over summer, both work. There’s no wrong way to explore this vibrant coastal hub of the San Diego region.