Fun Things to Do Using the New Chula Vista–Downtown Ferry

Chula Vista–Downtown Ferry approaching the Chula Vista Landing
June 4, 2026 | Posted in Guides

San Diego's new ferry service between Chula Vista and the Convention Center isn't just a way to get from Point A to Point B—it's an adventure in itself.

The 45-minute ride offers spectacular views of the downtown skyline, the Coronado Bridge, Naval Base San Diego, the NASSCO shipyards, the National City Marine Terminal, the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge, and the new Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center.

For locals, it provides a fun excuse to spend time on the water while avoiding the hassle of driving. The free parking at the Chula Vista terminal makes it easy to leave the car behind and enjoy the journey.

One of the best ways to use the ferry is as part of a day of exploration. Here are some ideas to inspire your next adventure.

Ferry from Chula Vista to Downtown San Diego

With Kids: Picnic, Play, and a Historic Carousel

The ferry arrives right next to Fifth Avenue Landing Park, a waterfront green space with plenty of room to spread out a blanket and enjoy a picnic lunch.

After lunch, take a leisurely walk north along the bay to Seaport Village, where kids can explore the shops and ride the beloved Historic Carousel. Hand-carved in 1895, the carousel features 54 beautifully restored animals and two horse-drawn chariots. More than a century later, it's still delighting visitors of all ages.

Between the boat ride, waterfront views, and carousel ride, you've got the makings of a memorable family outing.

For Couples: A Date Night That Starts on the Water

Skip the traffic and start date night with a cruise across San Diego Bay.

Board in Chula Vista and enjoy a relaxing ride beneath the Coronado Bridge while taking in views of the skyline and waterfront. Once downtown, you're just steps from the Gaslamp Quarter, the Embarcadero, and countless restaurants and cocktail bars.

If you time it right, you'll enjoy sunset views from the water before heading off for dinner and drinks.

For History Buffs: Explore San Diego's Maritime Heritage

The ferry ride itself is a fascinating look at San Diego's maritime history and military presence.

Along the route you'll pass Naval Base San Diego, one of the largest naval installations in the Pacific, as well as the NASSCO shipyards, where commercial and military vessels are built and repaired.

After arriving downtown, continue your nautical journey with a visit to the USS Midway Museum, one of San Diego's most popular attractions. The combination makes for a full day of exploring the region's rich maritime heritage.

For Sports Fans: Sail to the Ballpark

Nobody enjoys game-day traffic or paying for downtown parking.

Instead, park for free in Chula Vista, hop aboard the ferry, and enjoy a scenic ride to the Convention Center. From there, it's an easy walk to Petco Park for a Padres game.

It's hard to imagine a better pregame experience than cruising across San Diego Bay.

Ferry from Downtown San Diego to Chula Vista

With Kids: Explore Bayside Park

The Chula Vista Bayfront is quickly becoming one of the South Bay's most exciting destinations.

Families can enjoy Chula Vista Bayside Park, featuring colorful playground equipment, picnic areas, public art, and plenty of open space to run around and enjoy the waterfront.

Pack a lunch, enjoy the bay views, and let the kids burn off some energy.

For Couples: Dinner on the Bay

Catch an afternoon or evening ferry and enjoy dinner along Chula Vista's revitalized waterfront.

For a classic local experience, try The Galley at the Marina, a longtime South Bay favorite known for its relaxed atmosphere and waterfront views.

Looking for something more upscale? The new Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center offers several dining options, including Marzul Coastal Cuisine and Old Hickory Steakhouse, both showcasing the resort's stunning bayfront setting.

The ferry ride adds a unique touch to what might otherwise be an ordinary dinner date.

For Nature Lovers: Explore Sweetwater Park

Just a short walk from the waterfront, Sweetwater Park offers a completely different side of San Diego Bay.

Unlike most bayfront parks, this 39-acre open space was designed to showcase the region's natural habitat. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, bird watching, biking, public art installations, and spectacular views of the South Bay.

It's one of the best places in the county to experience the area's unique coastal ecosystem.

For Water Park Fans: A Resort Day Without the Hotel Stay

The new Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center isn't just for overnight guests.

Subject to availability, visitors can purchase day passes to enjoy the resort's massive 4.25-acre pool and water park complex. Attractions include multiple pools, a lazy river, waterslides, and a wave pool, making it an exciting option for families looking for a summer adventure.

Passes are limited and typically become available only a few days in advance, so planning ahead is recommended.

Mix Ferry and Trolley for the Ultimate Bay Adventure

One of the smartest ways to enjoy the ferry is to combine it with San Diego's public transit system.

Take the ferry one direction and ride the San Diego Trolley the other.

The trolley is faster, less expensive, operates more frequently, and runs well into the evening. That flexibility makes it easy to spend a full day exploring without worrying about matching your plans to the ferry schedule.

Getting between the Chula Vista waterfront and the trolley is easy thanks to the free Chula Vista Bayfront Shuttle, which connects the ferry landing and bayfront attractions with nearby transit connections. The shuttle even includes a real-time tracker so you can see exactly when the next vehicle will arrive.

The Journey Is Part of the Experience

Whether you're planning a family outing, date night, Padres game, museum visit, or waterfront adventure, the new ferry offers a unique way to experience San Diego Bay.

Sometimes the destination is only part of the fun. With skyline views, maritime history, wildlife, and waterfront attractions all along the route, the journey itself becomes an experience worth enjoying.

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