Imagine skimming across San Diego Bay aboard a sleek, brand-new Sea-Doo jet ski, with the iconic skyline shimmering behind you. For around $119 per group, you’ll get approximately one hour of high-speed fun, starting from the vibrant Coronado Ferry Landing. The staff, including friendly and professional guides like Paul, walk you through safety and operation in a thorough briefing, ensuring everyone from beginners to seasoned thrill-seekers can enjoy the ride. It’s an experience that combines beautiful scenery, adrenaline, and the chance to see local wildlife like seals and dolphins—if you’re lucky.
What we love most? First, the prime location in Coronado offers some of the best views of downtown San Diego and the Coronado Bridge, making every moment on the water picture-perfect. Second, the new 2023 Sea-Doo jet skis promise both power and reliability, adding to the thrill and peace of mind. A possible consideration? Since the activity is weather-dependent, poor conditions can lead to cancellations or rescheduling, so checking the forecast is wise. This adventure suits travelers who enjoy water sports, scenic vistas, and a dash of adventure—especially those looking for a memorable way to explore San Diego’s iconic bay.
Key Points
- Location: In Coronado, with unmatched views of San Diego’s skyline and iconic bridges.
- Equipment: Brand-new Sea-Doo jet skis from 2023, reliable and powerful.
- Safety: Detailed safety briefing included, with strict rules against alcohol and drugs.
- Experience: Approximately one hour of high-speed riding, with the chance to see seals and dolphins.
- Accessibility: Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness; drivers must be 18+ with a valid license.
- Value: Competitive pricing for a memorable, scenic adventure on the water.
Exploring the Experience
Starting at the Coronado Ferry Landing, the location itself is a highlight—easy to access, with shops, restaurants, and free parking on-site. It’s the kind of place that already feels like a mini-vacation, with a lively atmosphere and stunning views of the San Diego skyline. Once checked in, you’ll meet your guides who will give a comprehensive safety briefing—an essential step, especially if this is your first time jet skiing. They explain how to operate the jet skis, safety regulations, and restrictions, all delivered with a friendly, professional tone.
The jet skis themselves are state-of-the-art—newly purchased in 2024, according to reviews. You’ll be given a chance to familiarize yourself with the controls during the briefing and will be provided with safety gear. The staff is praised repeatedly for their helpfulness and expertise, which makes all the difference in feeling confident and excited.
Once you’re on the water, the fun really begins. With speeds reaching up to 65 mph, you can explore the bay at a pace that suits your comfort level. Our favorite part? The stunning vistas of downtown San Diego, the Coronado Bridge, the navy base, and even the historic Midway aircraft carrier museum. If luck is on your side, you might catch a glimpse of seals lounging on rocks or dolphins weaving through the wakes of passing boats—some reviews even mention this as a highlight.
The guides often recommend a route that includes viewing the big ships docked at the navy base or playing in the wakes of other boats, offering a playful and scenic ride. The frequent praise from customers about the helpful staff, easy rental process, and fun rides suggests this is one of the best ways to see the bay.
Planning more time in San Diego? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
The adventure begins at the Coronado Ferry Landing, a spot that combines convenience with great scenery. Once you arrive 30 minutes early for orientation, you’ll meet your guides—likely a staff member like Paul, who is known for tips and friendly service. This briefing covers safety instructions and operation, especially important if it’s your first time on a jet ski.
After a quick gear-up, you’ll be directed onto your jet ski—each machine can hold up to two people, with a maximum weight limit of 450 pounds. The guides emphasize strict adherence to safety rules, including the prohibition of alcohol or drugs, to ensure a secure experience for everyone.
On the water, you’ll glide past the downtown skyline, with spectacular views of San Diego’s skyscrapers, the Coronado Bridge, and the Midway Museum. The speed and freedom of the jet ski make it easy to cover a lot of ground in a short time, giving you a comprehensive perspective of San Diego’s bay area. Many reviews highlight how the experience feels like a quick, exhilarating escape, with some describing it as “the most fun” or “a blast”.
The guides often suggest a route that includes seeing the big ships, playing in wakes, and possibly spotting seals or dolphins—a treat for wildlife lovers. The experience is equally suited for first-time jet skiers and seasoned riders, thanks to the clear instructions and friendly staff.
The Equipment and Location: Why It Matters
The brand-new 2023 Sea-Doo jet skis are a major highlight. Customers frequently comment on their power and reliability, which enhances the overall thrill and safety. The location in Coronado is arguably the best in San Diego for jet skiing. It offers easy access to major sights without the crowding typical of busier harbors, plus free parking makes logistics simple.
The site’s proximity to shops and restaurants means you can easily plan a full day around your water adventure—grab a bite or a drink afterward while soaking in the views. The photos taken from the water often feature the San Diego skyline, the Coronado Bridge, and the ships at dock, making for memorable keepsakes.
Customer Feedback: Authentic Voices
The reviews paint a glowing picture of the experience. Many mention how friendly and helpful the staff is, with quotes like “staff was very friendly and professional” and “Paul helped us with lots of great tips.” Several reviewers highlight the ease of the rental process, describing it as “a breeze” from start to finish.
The scenery consistently receives praise. Comments such as “Great views of San Diego from the bay” and “Incredible way to see the city” reflect how this activity offers more than just speed—it delivers on the chance to enjoy the landscape from a unique vantage point.
Some reviews suggest this is a perfect activity for a special occasion, like a date or birthday, with the experience providing a mix of adventure and sightseeing. The cost is seen as quite reasonable considering the quality of equipment, scenic value, and the professionalism of staff.
Practical Details and Tips
- Book at least 21 days in advance to secure your preferred date, especially during peak seasons.
- Arrive 30 minutes early for your safety briefing—timeliness helps ensure you don’t miss out.
- Drivers must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver’s license.
- Each jet ski accommodates up to 2 people, so consider sharing if you’re traveling with a partner.
- The activity is weather-dependent; poor weather may result in cancellations with options for rescheduling or full refunds.
- Parking is free on-site, making logistics straightforward.
- Remember, alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited—safety first!
The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?
This jet ski adventure is ideal for adventure lovers who want a thrilling ride with some of the most stunning views in San Diego. It’s perfect for couples, groups of friends, or even solo travelers eager to see the bay from an exciting perspective. Since the equipment is new and reliable and the staff are friendly and professional, it offers good value for those seeking an easy, fun, and scenic water excursion.
If you’re looking for a memorable way to explore San Diego’s harbor, combine adrenaline, wildlife sightings, and spectacular cityscapes, this tour hits the mark. It’s a great choice whether you want a light-hearted thrill or a beautiful, photo-worthy adventure on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long is the jet ski rental?
The experience lasts approximately one hour, giving you plenty of time to explore and enjoy the scenery. - What is included in the safety briefing?
The staff will explain how to operate the jet skis, safety regulations, and restrictions, ensuring you feel confident before hitting the water. - Can I bring a passenger?
Yes, each jet ski can hold up to two people, and you’ll be encouraged to share the ride with a friend or partner. - What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities. A life jacket is provided, and you’ll want sunglasses, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat for sun protection. - Is parking easy?
Yes, there’s free parking available on-site at Coronado Ferry Landing, making logistics hassle-free. - What is the minimum age to drive a jet ski?
Drivers must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver’s license—no exceptions. - What happens if the weather is bad?
The activity is weather-dependent; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. - Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded. - What if I want to extend my ride?
The current booking is for one hour. To extend, you’ll need to check with the staff if additional time is available, but this is not detailed in the provided info.
This jet ski tour offers an exhilarating way to see San Diego’s most iconic sights while enjoying the thrill of speed. Whether you’re looking for a fun activity during a perfect weekend or a unique date idea, it combines scenic beauty, safety, and adventure in one memorable package.
More Jet Skis in San Diego
More Tour Reviews in San Diego
- PCF 816 Swift Boat Naval History Bay Tour with General Admission
- San Diego Private Highlights Tour with Daily Chauffeur
- Private Shopping Tour from San Diego to Outlets at San Clemente
- San Diego Bike Rentals
- Bike Around San Diego Bay to the Ocean
- Sedan Arrival Private Transfer San Diego Airport SAN to San Diego
More San Diego experiences we've covered
- PCF 816 Swift Boat Naval History Bay Tour with General Admission
- San Diego Private Highlights Tour with Daily Chauffeur
- Private Shopping Tour from San Diego to Outlets at San Clemente
- San Diego Bike Rentals
- Bike Around San Diego Bay to the Ocean
- Sedan Arrival Private Transfer San Diego Airport SAN to San Diego
- The Escape Game San Diego: 60-Minute Adventure in Gaslamp Quarter
- Sunset Cliffs Meditation Experience
- Specters and Sinners Walking Tour
- Deluxe private Sunset & Day Sail
- San Diego GoCar: Best Value, Full Day Option
- Luxurious and Empowering Flying Dress Photoshoot
