MISSION BEACH – Some things are meant to be saved.
By the mid-1970s, Belmont Park — the iconic amusement park in Mission Beach — was at a crossroads. Once a bustling destination filled with laughter and rides, the park faced closure amid competing economic interests and shifting city politics. Despite its nostalgic charm and community value, Belmont Park was threatened with demolition, its future uncertain.
Contrary to some beliefs, the park’s closure in 1976 wasn’t due to neglect or safety issues. No, Belmont Park was still in remarkably good shape, with clean facilities, freshly painted attractions and attentive staff. The real culprits were complicated parking disputes and lease politics that ultimately forced the park to close.
The land — a prime stretch of beachfront real estate — quickly attracted developers keen to replace the historic amusement park with condos and commercial projects. City officials and business leaders leaned toward clearing the old structures, including the beloved wooden roller coaster, to pave the way for new ventures.
But a determined band of locals refused to let Belmont Park fade into history.
- Shout-out for the Giant Dipper, Belmont Park, still rolling at 100 in Mission Beach
Community groups, historic preservationists and longtime residents rallied together. They recognized the park’s importance not just as an entertainment venue, but as a symbol of San Diego’s coastal identity and heritage. Their efforts grew into a grassroots movement centered on saving the park’s crown jewel — the Giant Dipper roller coaster — and the park itself.
Tim Cole (left, in front seat) during one of the first test runs of the coaster, which had not run in 5,000 days. (Photo by Lee Schwabe/STC Committee) 
What the Giant Dipper looked like when acquired by the STC Committee (Photo by Lee Schwabe/STC Committee) 
Tim Cole covered in paint after one of the Giant Dipper painting parties. (Photo courtesy Tim Cole) 
Aug. 11, 1990, was the inaugural ride on reopening day, which went to all who played major roll in saving the coaster. (Photo by Lee Schwabe/STC Committee) 
Tim Cole’s new book, ‘Saving Belmont: An Up and Down Journey,’ chronicles his personal story, the fight to save the coaster, and the broader legacy of Belmont Park, once known as the Mission Beach Amusement Center.
Among the champions of this cause was Tim Cole, an amusement park enthusiast who helped found the Save the Coaster Committee. Cole and his team worked tirelessly, organizing community meetings, fundraising and spreading awareness through local media. Their mission was clear: Preserve Belmont Park’s unique legacy and prevent the giant wooden coaster from disappearing forever.
“It was difficult for our committee to convince people it could be restored,” Cole said. “But our passion, faith and determination kept the Giant Dipper standing until we could pass the torch.”
That torch was passed in 1989 when the San Diego Coaster Co. invested more than $2 million in restoring the Giant Dipper, proving that Belmont Park could be a historic treasure and a financially viable attraction.
The successful restoration sparked new life throughout the park. Belmont Park reopened in 1988 with renewed energy, blending its rich past with modern amenities. The Giant Dipper eventually reopened in 1990. Over the years, it continued evolving, including the 2019 refurbishing of the Plunge — the giant pool that remains a community fixture.
Today, thanks to the unwavering dedication of community advocates like Cole and countless supporters, Belmont Park stands as a vibrant testament to San Diego’s seaside spirit.
“An amusement center is what is destined to be here,” Cole said. “Belmont Park was dead for over a decade, and now that it’s alive and better than ever. I feel confident about its future.”
