Boat ramp guide
Ski Beach Boat Launch
San Diego, San Diego County, CA
Overview
Ski Beach is a City of San Diego park on the east side of Vacation Isle, reached from Ingraham Street. Its boat launch is one of the public ramps around Mission Bay and is a popular choice for jet skis and smaller trailer boats. The park is open from 4 a.m. to 2 a.m., and the city lists free parking, with a lot near the ramp that fits vehicles towing boats.
Why boaters use it
Vacation Isle sits in the middle of the bay, so Ski Beach puts you close to the main water ski and open-speed area of Fiesta Bay while staying inside protected water. The ocean entrance channel is a short run to the west. The park also has a grass area, picnic shelter, fire rings, playground and a path, so it works well for a family day around a launch.
Before you launch
The city says restrooms are nearby and parking is free but fills quickly in summer. The park holds up to 350 people, and no swimming is allowed. Remember Mission Bay speed rules once you are afloat: 5 mph from sunset to sunrise, within 100 feet of shore and within 200 feet of docks. Other Mission Bay ramps include De Anza Cove, South Shores, Dana Landing and Santa Clara Point.
Getting there & access
Driving directions
From the south or east, take I-8 to the Sports Arena Boulevard exit, then follow Mission Bay Drive to Ingraham Street. From the north, take I-5 to the Sea World Drive exit and continue to Ingraham Street. Vacation Isle is reached from Ingraham Street.
Parking and trailers
Parking is free. The city says the lot near the boat launch accommodates vehicles towing boats, but lots fill quickly in summer, so arrive early on weekends.
On the water
Once afloat you are in the middle of Mission Bay. Fiesta Bay, the open-speed area, lies to the east. Nighttime speed is 5 mph everywhere, and you must stay out of marked swim areas and ski landing zones. The bay's ocean entrance is to the west.
Other ramps
If this ramp is busy, De Anza Cove, South Shores, Dana Landing and Santa Clara Point are also listed as public Mission Bay launch facilities.
Amenities
- Boat launch area — Public launch on the east side of Vacation Isle
- Parking — Free parking, with a lot near the launch for vehicles towing boats
- Restrooms — Nearby, per the City
- Picnic shelter and grass — Large grassy area, picnic shelter with tables
- Fire rings — City fire rings on the shoreline
- Playground and path — Children's playground and a jogging and cycling path
Rules & official resources
- Park open 4 a.m. to 2 a.m.; capacity 350 people
- No swimming at Ski Beach
- Food allowed but no glass containers; alcohol not permitted
- 5 mph from sunset to sunrise anywhere in Mission Bay, and within 100 feet of shore
- California Boater Card required for all operators of motorized vessels, regardless of age, since January 1, 2025
Common boat service needs here
Outboard and PWC service
Salt-water launching is hard on outboards and personal watercraft. Flushing, impellers and fuel-system service are common calls.
Find Marine Mechanics & Engine Service providers →Washdown and detailing
Boats that go back on a trailer after each trip benefit from a freshwater rinse and periodic wax.
Find Boat Detailing & Washing providers →Gelcoat and oxidation repair
Southern California sun chalks gelcoat on boats stored outdoors; compounding and polishing restore it.
Find Gelcoat, Oxidation & Paint Correction providers →Transport and towing
Owners without a tow vehicle often hire transport to and from the ramp.
Find Boat Transport, Towing & Delivery providers →Guides & FAQs
Nearby providers
No providers listed near this location yet — check back soon.
Sources
Last verified October 1, 2026