Family Guide to San Diego’s Seaport Village with kids – Where to eat, stay & play

Imagine a place where you can have the best of both worlds; the laid-back beauty of a coastal beach town with excitement of a bustling metropolitan city. Well, you don’t have to imagine it, because it exists. The lovely Seaport Village is a waterfront hub of shops, restaurants and entertainment, linking San Diego Bay with Downtown. Its breathtaking views and convenient location to San Diego attractions makes Seaport Village with kids a perfect day-trip for families.

Where to stay in San Diego near Seaport Village:

When you are visiting Seaport Village you are in the heart of San Diego, providing you endless options for accommodations. When choosing where to stay near Seaport Village, I prefer to pick hotels that offer bay views.

One of my favorites is the Wyndham San Diego Bayside. When traveling with kids, I like hotels that are closest to the attractions I am visiting and this hotel has a great location along with fantastic views.

Mission Bay RV Resort is also nearby. So, if you are making San Diego a part of your road trip itinerary, this is a great spot to park. For more details about this RV Resort, check out my post HERE.

Where to Eat with Kids in Seaport Village:

When I am visiting Seaport Village, I like to see the water at all times. Although there are plenty of quick-service and casual dining options, when choosing a place to eat, I always opt for bay view. Here are my choices of where to eat at Seaport Village.

Buster’s Beach House & Longboard Bar:

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, but my favorite time to visit is during Happy Hour! Happy Hour is good on the patio, which is a bonus for me since I love to be on patios. Buster’s actually looks like a beach cottage, which I love! You’ll feel like you are on a tropical getaway! It is casual; it is tropical and it great for dining with kids.

Edgewater Grill:

This restaurant has great views of the bay, Sunday Brunch and Happy Hour. This restaurant is more elegant, but kids are totally welcomed. It just depends on the dining experience you want while visiting Seaport Village with kids. I don’t usually mind taking the kids to elegant restaurants, as they have of experience dining out. So, if you are brave, try it. Kids can surprise you.

Harbor House:

I love the cozy atmosphere and the fresh daily oysters! There is also a covered patio warmed with heaters for comfortable nights joining the bay. Casual dining room is up stairs while the more formal dining room is downstairs. If dining with kids, the upstairs will be more comfortable for most. Oh and yes there is Happy Hour too!

San Diego Pier Cafe:

This is one of my favorite restaurants on the bay. First, my parents used to take me here as a child, so there is a sentimental attachment. Second, it is right on the water! You couldn’t get closer the water if jumped in the bay. The restaurant is on stilts. It is great for dining with kids, because they will love the views and the kids’ menu has tons of options. I love the fresh seafood variety and the Happy Hour. Best way to watch the sunset.

Places to Grab a Drink:

We all need little libations and when traveling with kids, it is necessary. HotMama’s got your back. Check out where to drink at Seaport Village.

Margaritas Kitchen & Cantina

This is great for casual dining, but I go there for the drinks! Their margaritas and beer are HUGE and inexpensive. We ordered our jumbo beers first thing at the take-out window and then walked out Seaport Village with a cold one in hand!

Also, check out the many Happy Hours at the various restaurants listed above. Even when I’m visiting Seaport Village with kids, I always make sure to factor my fun too and that means enjoying affordable drinks with a bay view!

Fun Things to do in Seaport Village:

Although I am thrilled to just walk around, eat and drink, my little one’s require a little more stimulation. Don’t worry. There are plenty of things to do in Seaport Village with kids.

Historic Carousel:

When visiting Seaport Village with kids, you have check out the historical carousel. It was built in 1895 and is hard-carved. It is $3 a ride, just one of those things you have to do.

Street Entertainers:

Some of the best Seaport Village attractions are the ones you stumble upon long the bay walk. We love to stroll along San Diego Bay and just take in the gorgeous views, but sometimes you’ll get more than just a view.

One time a bird-man offered to let my nephew “hold” his birds for a tip. It made for an interesting experience, so we went for it.

Ever see those people who look like statues and then bust into a robot dance? Well, while visiting Seaport Village, there was a man painted silver. He stood completely still for a long time until FireCracker felt safe enough to approach him. Once she touched him, he moved his hand and sent her running in fear. Luckily, HotDaddy got the whole thing on camera!! We laughed forever about this one.

What kids doesn’t like sweet treats? There are a few different sweet shops, but Frost Me Gourmet Cupcakes has an aroma that will lure you in.

That’s a Wrap!

Fun little shops, yummy restaurants and quirky entertainment, make Seaport Village with kids a fun daytrip for the whole family. It is close enough to Downtown and other San Diego attractions that makes it convenient to spend a couple ours enjoying a meal or stroll along the bay without too much effort. When traveling with kids we love anything with minimal effort! So, the next time you visit San Diego, pop by Seaport Village and have fun!

Have you ever visited Seaport Village? Tell me about your favorite things to there.

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