Mission Bay, United States
Right on Mission Bay, with a sandy beach
Private marina features a restored turn-of-the-century cruise ship
Many rooms have views of the bay
Huge outdoor pool and hot tub are popular among families
Restaurant and bar have a terrace for outdoor dining
Two outdoor tennis courts on-site
Fitness center includes free weights and cardio machines
Free Wi-Fi
Some rooms are on the small side
No on-site spa (though guests have access to the one at the sister property)
Hourly fees for watersports and beach chairs
While showing some age, Bahia Resort Hotel still has a lot of character and nice extras. A beautifully restored sternwheeler ship offers free cruises around Mission Bay for guests, and kids like watching the rescued seals kept in an enclosure on the well-maintained grounds. The rooms are a little bland, but the property is an ideal spot for families who want to take advantage of the calm bay waters and the sandy beach. While located on quiet peninsulas stretching into the bay like other hotels, the Bahia tends to have lower rates than its competitors.
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Scene
Relaxed, family-friendly property
The Bahia is fronted a by a large rectangular building partially covered by green, that's flanked by roadways, a strip of sand, and the blue waters of Mission Bay. The hotel's peninsular vibe grants it lovely views of the bay, as well as an isolated resort feeling; the grounds consist of lush, palm-filled gardens. Its origins in the 1950s show through in the low angled roofs of the buildings and their boxy picture windows, which face small patios and quiet cabana chairs on the beach beyond. The slightly retro lobby area is done up in darker earth tones with clustered cushioned seating and a long reception desk.
Location
Near an array of popular city attractions
Right on West Mission Bay Drive on a secluded peninsula, the hotel is close to SeaWorld -- just a five-minute drive away -- and a quick drive to other major city attractions as well, including the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and downtown San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, all southeast of the property. The Bahia is also across the street from Bonita Cove Park and within easy walking distance to both Belmont Park and Mission Beach. And it's only a 15-minute drive to San Diego International Airport (on a good traffic day).
Rooms
Garden or bay view rooms with patios
The Bahia's 314 guest units are split between bay-front or garden views, most with floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors that open to small balconies or patios. Rooms offer contemporary decor with dark-stained wood furniture and a bland, inoffensive neutral palate of sand-colored carpets and cream walls. Small desks accompany standard coffeemakers and mini-fridges. Larger studio-style units have sitting areas with couches as well as kitchenettes with breakfast bars, while suites have full kitchens and dining tables. Partially tiled bathrooms are outfitted with basic shower/tub combos.
Features
Water sports, rescued seals, Olympic-sized outdoor pool, and boat cruises
The hotel's 14 acres provide plenty of opportunity for peaceful strolls and quiet places to enjoy views of the bay. There's a small sanctuary for rescued seals, similar to a zoo enclosure, where seals that are deemed too high-risk for release are kept and cared for. The property’s outdoor junior Olympic-sized swimming pool is heated and there's also a massive 30-person whirlpool. There are two lighted tennis courts with rackets and tennis balls, all free to use, as well as fitness rooms with aging treadmills. Even though there's no spa here, guests can book treatments at the sister hotel, The Catamaran. Water sports can be booked at the marina, with sailboats, kayaks, and paddle boards all available for rent, but even beach chairs require an hourly fee. For a better deal, guests can board the Bahia Bell for free. The beautifully restored Mississippi-style wheel boat tours on the bay nine months out of the year, cruising to the sister hotel and back with live music and a full bar. Back on dry land, the hotel's Café Bahia serves California- and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, with the Tangier Lounge providing fireside cocktails and a live piano.
