San Diego delivers excitement and sunshine with every salty breeze or mountain view, but how do you decide between its classic boardwalk amusement haven, Belmont Park, and the sprawling, immersive animal encounters of San Diego Zoo Safari Park? Each offers unforgettable moments and big-time thrills, but their experiences couldn’t be more different. Want to know which is right for your group—boardwalk rides with a side of funnel cake, or giraffe-spotting in wide-open valleys? Here’s our detailed guide to help you plan your next San Diego adventure.
The lowdown…
Belmont Park
- Historic 1925 amusement park on Mission Beach—free to enter, pay-as-you-go for rides and games
- Famous for the Giant Dipper wooden rollercoaster, classic boardwalk games, plus mini golf, rope courses, arcades and climbing walls
- Steps from the ocean—enjoy the sand, rent bikes or just chill by the waves
- Variety of food options, from tacos and burgers to Dole Whip and decadent funnel cakes
- Family-friendly, with both thrill rides and gentle attractions
San Diego Zoo Safari Park
- 1,800-acre open-range wildlife park in the San Pasqual Valley (about 35 miles NE of downtown San Diego)
- See lions, elephants, rhinos and giraffes in natural habitats—no cages or small pens
- Signature Africa Tram, plus zipline rides, rope bridges, walking trails and behind-the-scenes safaris
- Unique animal encounters: feed lorikeets, watch cheetahs run and meet elephants up close
- Multiple cafes and food courts; plenty of shade, greenery and open space to roam
Sounds great, tell me more...
Sounds great, tell me more...
Belmont Park: beachside fun washed in nostalgia
If your idea of a perfect day includes roller coasters, neon lights and cotton candy, Belmont Park will make you smile from the minute you arrive. The legendary Giant Dipper—a creaky, rattling wooden coaster built in 1925—remains the star attraction, with ocean views from the top that make hands-in-the-air screaming practically mandatory. But there’s more: from bumper cars and the Beach Blaster to laser tag, mini golf, a 7D theater, vintage arcade games, an escape room and even a high-ropes adventure course, Belmont Park packs plenty into a few beachside blocks.
The atmosphere is old-school carnival with a SoCal twist. Everything is pay-per-ride, so you control the pace and budget. Stroll the boardwalk, grab footlong hot dogs or local fish tacos, or take a break on the sand—Mission Beach is steps away. Chill spots like Cannonball for rooftop sushi and Draft for serious burgers add adult appeal, but don’t overlook the ice cream, churros and Dole Whip stands for kid-approved treats. Belmont Park excels for groups who want a classic day at the beach with enough thrill rides and nostalgia to tire out every member of the family.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park: where the wild things are
The Safari Park is in a league all of its own—a true wildlife preserve designed to evoke the sprawling savanna. Hop on the Africa Tram for a guided ride through open-range habitats where giraffes, rhinos, and antelope wander by mere feet from your seat. Choose from a dizzying menu of premium encounters: zipline over herds of grazing animals, join a behind-the-scenes safari in a covered truck, feed a lorikeet or kangaroo, or cross a swaying suspension bridge in the Treetops Adventure.
Exploration is half the fun. Shady walking trails wind through gorilla forests, tiger territories and blooming botanical gardens; wide, stroller-friendly paths make it easy for families. Play areas offer splash pads and rope play zones for kids who need to burn off some midday steam. Many animal habitats include feeding demonstrations, interactive keeper chats and conservation programs that bring animal care to life.
Dining is easy and relaxed: from the open-air Watering Hole at Kijamii Overlook (the view of rhinos and giraffes is spectacular) to sandwich kiosks or the shaded Tiger Trail cafe. There’s always something to watch—parrots swoop overhead, elephants parade past in the sun, and keepers might invite you to an impromptu meet-and-greet. Every visit is different.
Ok, so which is more impressive?
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park claims this prize for sheer size, spectacle, and heart-stopping wow moments. It’s one of the largest, most innovative open-range animal parks on the planet—nothing matches rounding a bend and seeing elephants, rhinos or giraffes roaming valleys that look like they’re in Africa. The tram journey, animal encounters and thrilling zipline create a sense of awe and adventure that leaves kids and grownups goggle-eyed. Even if you’re not usually an animal person, the scale and setting of the Safari Park are simply unforgettable.
Which is more fun?
It comes down to your style! For fast-paced, giggle-filled, ride-all-day fun, Belmont Park is tops. You can spend your morning on the coaster, hit the arcade, zip around bumper cars, conquer the ropes course, and finish with an epic sunset across the sand—no advance planning required. The change of scenery every hour (rides, sand, boardwalk, snacks) means no one ever gets bored, and the energy is always high.
At the Safari Park, fun is about adventure—spotting a lion under acacia trees, feeding a cheeky lorikeet from your hand, or watching a cheetah sprint at top speed. There are rides, thrills and interaction, but your pace is slower, with more time for marveling and wandering. For activity-loving teens or groups seeking beachside buzz, Belmont wins. For explorer families, animal lovers and nature fans, Safari Park is absolute heaven.
Which is more beautiful?
Which is more beautiful?
This is a close call, but the Safari Park edges ahead by turning San Diego’s rolling hills into a lush, exotic landscape. The sweeping African Plains, lagoons, forested trails and blooming gardens are a feast for the eyes, and there’s a tranquility to the vistas that photos can never quite capture. In spring, wildflowers coat the valleys, while summer transforms lagoons into a giraffe-filled paradise. It’s effortlessly photogenic, sunrise through sunset.
Belmont Park delivers an entirely different—and equally cool—aesthetic: surf, sand, towering palm trees and historic boardwalk architecture. Sunset from the boardalk is a classic San Diego scene, and the neon glow of the midway after dark is all vintage glamour. Both are beautiful, but for wild, natural wonder, Safari Park is hard to top.
Which has better views?
The Safari Park wins for jaw-dropping, panoramic views. From the Africa Tram or Watering Hole café, you see hundreds of acres dotted with animals beneath endless blue skies. Trails open up wide vistas across the San Pasqual Valley. Sunrise and sunset are pure magic—the light glows off the hills and the wildlife fades into unforgettable silhouettes.
Belmont Park’s oceanfront view, especially from the top of the Giant Dipper or Cannonball’s rooftop, is hard to beat if you love sea and sand. But if you want wide-open, wild ‘out of Africa’ moments, Safari Park is the clear winner.
How do I get there?
Belmont Park
By public transit: MTS Bus #8 takes you straight to Mission Boulevard from many central San Diego neighborhoods. From downtown, take the Green Line trolley to Old Town, then transfer to the #8 or #9 bus. You'll get dropped virtually at the park’s doorstep.
By car: Set your navigation for 3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109. There are paid parking lots right next to the park, but they fill fast on weekends and holidays—arrive before 11AM for your best shot at a space. Street parking is also available if you don’t mind a short walk.
On foot or bike: The Ocean Front Walk boardwalk stretches from Pacific Beach right past Belmont. Bike, scooter, skate, or stroll—it's a beautiful, lively approach.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park
By public transit: Take the COASTER train or MTS bus to Escondido Transit Center, then hop on the 371 bus (North County Transit District) directly to the park entrance. Allow two hours from central San Diego, as the park is 35 miles inland.
By car: Enter 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027 in your GPS. There’s a large paid parking lot—with space for strollers, RVs and group buses, so you’ll rarely struggle to find a spot, even on busy days.
Rideshare: Both Uber and Lyft drop off at the main entrance, but make sure you have a signal for pickup at day’s end—service can be spotty in rural San Pasqual Valley.
Best choice for families, couples or friends
Best choice for families, couples or friends
- For families: Safari Park is a winner for multi-generational family groups. Stroller-friendly, shade-dappled walking paths, splash pads and play zones keep kids happy for hours. Interactive animal shows and close-up encounters make for lifelong memories. Even teens are enthralled by the zipline, safaris, and seeing cheetahs sprint up-close. Belmont Park is best for families with active kids and tweens. There’s always something happening—from arcade challenges to spinning rides, plus the chance to hop off the boardwalk for some beach time. If everyone needs to do something different, it’s perfectly easy—some can relax with a snack while others tackle the coaster again!
- For couples: Safari Park makes a wildly original date—walk hand-in-hand through the bamboo forest, split a picnic at the Watering Hole, or share a magical moment feeding Lorikeets. Those panoramic views are sunset-gold for romance. Meanwhile at Belmont Park, it’s all about playful nostalgia. Compete at skee-ball, share a funnel cake, or book a rooftop dinner at Cannonball for cocktails with an ocean view. Sunsets on the sand and neon-lit walks through the midway are movie-scene perfect.
- For friends: Both shine for friend groups, but the choice depends on your crew’s style. If you want full-throttle energy, quick laughs and photos on the rollercoaster, head to Belmont. For a slower pace and stories you’ll reminisce about for years, Safari Park is the right call.
I have fidgety kids - which has more hands-on fun?
Both deliver, but for all-day, always-new adventures, Safari Park has the edge. Here, interactive animal encounters and play areas are the name of the game. The Savanna Cool Zone and Village Playground let kids climb, splash and run wild. Watch lorikeets perch on little arms, let kids feed ducks at the lagoon or explore the Hidden Jungle for bug-hunting, butterfly-watching and hands-on displays. Keeper talks and animal presentations throughout the day keep every young explorer totally engaged.
Belmont Park counters with action-packed, kid-friendly rides, a climbing wall, Sky Ropes, mini-golf and a historic arcade loaded with games and air hockey tables. The entire park is walk-in, walk-out—so kids can run from skee-ball to the carousel to the roller coaster all day. When energy runs low, just hop down to the beach for an instant change of scene.
What’s the accessibility like?
Belmont Park
Most areas, shops and restaurants are accessible and flat, with ramps for entrances and wide walkways. Some older rides (like the Giant Dipper) may have steps and restrictions, but arcade, mini golf and midway games are all accessible. Accessible beach paths and parking are ready for strollers and wheelchairs.
Safari Park
Designed with accessibility in mind—rent scooters or wheelchairs at the entrance, ride the Africa Tram with ease, and use gentle ramps for almost every destination. Signs clearly mark accessible paths, and every shuttle or transport ride is ADA compliant. Shaded benches and rest areas are frequent. If any member of your group has mobility needs, Safari Park staff are on-hand and proactive in making your day smooth.
Best lunch spots nearby?
Best lunch spots nearby?
Belmont Park
- Beach House Grill: On the sand, surf-friendly, casual eats—crispy fish tacos and burgers. Family-friendly, always a lively crowd.
- Cannonball: Rooftop sushi and Asian fusion with panoramic Pacific views. The sashimi and creative rolls are standouts.
- Sweet Shoppe: Loads of candy, ice cream, Dole Whip and churros—a perfect midday treat.
- Draft: Hearty burgers, pub fare and 60+ beers on tap. Patio with ocean views, HDTVs, and a locals-meet-tourists vibe.
Safari Park
- Watering Hole at Kijamii Overlook: Sit and eat burgers, wraps and salads while giraffes and rhinos wander just beyond the terrace.
- Mombasa Cooker: Cafeteria-style comfort food—slow-cooked chicken, mac and cheese, sandwiches, and fruit cups for little adventurers.
- Tiger Trail Café: Asian-style rice bowls, bahn mi and noodle stir fries in a sun-dappled forest clearing.
- Okavango Outpost: Deli sandwiches and healthy snacks with covered patio seating.
Where can I find the best photo ops?
Belmont Park
- Top of the Giant Dipper for sweeping ocean views and mid-scream selfies.
- Beach shots with neon-lit rides as your sunset backdrop.
- In front of classic midway signs or with a towering ice cream cone by the boardwalk.
Safari Park
- On the Africa Tram: panoramic shots of giraffes, rhinos and zebras against wild hills.
- Walkways through the aviary or Tiger Trail: up-close action shots of animals (and awestruck faces).
- On the zipline for a GoPro-ready, soaring overhead view.
- Sunset at the Watering Hole: the golden light and animal silhouettes are photogenic perfection.
We’re finished and thirsty – any good bars nearby?
Near Belmont Park
- Miss B’s Coconut Club: Laid-back tropical bar a short stroll north. Sip a rum-forward Painkiller or try local craft brews in caramel-lit, beachy surroundings.
- Amplified Ale Works: Microbrewery with rooftop views, Mediterranean-inspired small plates and a chill, music-loving crowd.
- PB Shore Club: Beachside sports bar known for its Red Bull slushies and happy-hour crowd. It’s always lively right off the sand.
Near Safari Park (Escondido & San Pasqual)
- Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens: World-class beer, rustic-luxe garden patio and creative appetizers. The house IPAs and bistro pretzels are a must.
- Plan 9 Alehouse: Quirky downtown spot with rotating craft taps and good people-watching in Old Escondido.
- Puesto at The Headquarters: This designer taqueria next to Escondido’s transit hub shakes up margaritas and fresh sangria. The chill patio is perfect after a long safari hike.
Any other good stuff nearby?
Any other good stuff nearby?
Near Belmont Park
- Mission Beach Boardwalk: Miles of biking, skating, or strolling—grab a rental for sunset rides.
- Mission Bay Aquatic Center: Book a paddleboard, kayak or windsurfing lesson right on the calm bay.
- SeaWorld San Diego: Only a 5-minute drive—a hometown star for animal lovers and thrill-ride hunters.
- South Mission Beach: Quieter stretches of sand for volleyball, kite flying or bonfires in the evening.
Near Safari Park
- Orfila Vineyards & Winery: Just down the road—enjoy estate tastings, cheese boards and mountain views (kid-friendly lawns, too).
- Queen Califia’s Magical Circle in Kit Carson Park: A whimsical public sculpture garden designed by French artist Niki de Saint Phalle. Great for photos and letting the kids run wild after animal encounters.
- Escondido’s California Center for the Arts: Catch a concert, art show or craft festival if you want a dose of culture post-safari.
- Lake Hodges: Hiking, birdwatching and peaceful lakeside picnic spots. Bring your binoculars for ospreys and hawks.
In summary…
Whether you crave the pulse-pounding excitement of the Giant Dipper and beach games at Belmont Park, or the awe-inspiring thrill of spotting rhinos, giraffes and cheetahs at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, San Diego serves up adventure for every taste. Both attractions deliver unforgettable memories, whether you’re high-fiving after a particularly hairy rollercoaster ride or sharing wide-eyed wonder at a lion’s roar on the savanna. Add in unique food, drink and side-trip options, and you’ve got all the ingredients for the best day in Southern California.
The beauty of exploring San Diego with Go City® is that you don’t have to choose just one world—you can ride the waves, stroll the ocean boardwalk and set out on safari all in the same trip, all while saving time and money. Mix and match your adventures, discover new favorites, and enjoy the magic of a San Diego that really does have it all.
Looking for more things to do in and around San Diego? Check out some of our favourite Balboa Park museums, and weigh up the various pros and cons of a Petco Park tour vs a Gaslamp ghost hunt.
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