Discovering Mission Bay’s Catamaran Resort Hotel

The Catamaran Resort Hotel offers a Polynesian theme and tropical vibes without having to fly to the Hawaiian islands. It’s a popular getaway for families, couples, friends and destination weddings on Mission Bay.

With 27 miles of sandy shoreline and 4,600 acres of aquatic activities from boating and kayaking, paddle boarding and jet skiing, there is plenty of space for fun and social distancing.

During the summer the Polynesian-themed resort hosts Sunset Luaus providing guests with authentic Hawaiian tastes, music and entertainment. Every Tuesday and Friday nights, starting on June 24 to September 2, 2022, guests receive a silk lei, a tropical Mai Tai cocktail, all-you-can-eat buffet, dancing and entertainment by local luau group Pride of Polynesia. Learn how to hula, and watch the fiery torch dancers.

Dine at Oceana Coastal Kitchen

The onsite Oceana Coastal Kitchen, helmed by Executive Chef Steven Riemer, embraces fresh California flavors in his sushi options, small bites and fresh grilled proteins that include seafood from the coast of Baja and the Pacific.

The modern interior dining room is marine-focused in design with an 800-gallon aquarium stocked with colorful tropical fish. Outdoor dining on the covered patio offers panoramic bay views for sipping tropical cocktails, beer and wine with food items.

Bayside Bonfire

In the early evening, watch the sunset and roast s’mores for up to 8 guests per site. Each reservation includes firewood, chairs, and a s’mores kit for a convenient setup on the grass lawn by the beach.

Other resort activities include the unique Catamaran Bird Show. It’s the only hotel in the area that enlightens and educates guests daily about colorful talking macaws and Rita the cockatoo.

Led by bird handler Jackie Kohlman, guests will learn that Rita is an Umbrella Cockatoo, and joined the Catamaran flock in the spring of 2016. She charms guests with her dramatic beauty and intelligence at 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Guests who check-in on Fridays and Saturdays receive complimentary snacks and beverage in the lobby at 3 to 5 p.m. Families who pick up a self-guided scavenger hunt at the Concierge Desk can tour the resort to see and learn more about the property. When the scavenger hunt is completed, take it to Lava Java to redeem it for a free cookie.

Bahia Belle

The resort also offers a classic sternwheeler boat ride onboard the Bahia Belle. Purchase a ticket to take a 45-minute sightseeing cruise along Mission Bay. The 74-foot, 3-story replica of a turn-of-the-century boat offers an outdoor observation deck for fresh air and photo opportunities. Stand outside under the stars and see the lights sparkle on the bay.

Ride around Mission Bay

Right outside the resort is 12 miles of flat, scenic bike paths that meander around Mission Bay. Ride by public parks, Belmont Park, a historic amusement park, plus Sea World and a portion of the San Diego River. Fit City Adventures is a lifestyle concierge experience offering e-bike tours.

Stop for a beverage or ice cream

A fun stop while biking is at the Mission Bay Beach Club for iced coffee, fresh juice and ice cream. It’s San Diego’s newest waterfront destination with picnic tables, fire pits, a small vineyard and hopefully a wood-fired pizza oven and full bar soon.

Rates at the Catamaran Resort Hotel start at $300+ a night during the summer months.