MISSION BEACH – Some people may think of Mission Beach as PB’s little brother. But how about more of a fun aunt? Lots of activities for the kids with a wink (and maybe a margarita or two) for the adults.
In 2025, however, there was some serious news in the family-friendly beach community, along with a centennial celebration.
La Playa Taco Shop owner detained by ICE
Victor Rodriguez Ocampo Sr., 54, owner of La Playa Taco Shop at 3973 Mission Blvd., was seized by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Halloween morning outside his National City home. Rodriguez Sr. has been running the popular Mission Beach taco shop for about 30 years.
He is being held at Otay Mesa Detention Center, and according to his family, they have not received a court date or an interview date. They worry about his health.
Lifeguard Station deteriorating, emergency repairs needed
On March 20, a San Diego City Council committee endorsed spending $1 million for emergency repairs to Mission Beach Lifeguard Station.
A staff report on the emergency Mission Beach funding proposal pointed out that a structural evaluation by an architectural firm in May 2024 concluded that the lifeguard tower needed “immediate hazard mitigation” to alleviate the threat it currently presents to the “health, safety and welfare of the general public.”
County’s grant saves beach fire rings
With beach fire rings about to fall to the city’s budget axe in June, the county stepped in to provide a $135,000 grant to fund maintenance of the fire rings for the next fiscal year. The city will retain responsibility for operating the fire rings. Grant funding will ensure that fire rings, a popular beach amenity, remain available to the public.
ADU Bonus Program revamped
A city council majority agreed with public concerns that the ADU Bonus Program allowed excessive densification and exploitation by some developers, compromising the character of single-family neighborhoods.
Belmont Park celebrates 100th anniversary
Belmont Park has been a beloved part of Mission Beach’s coastline for 100 years, along with the Giant Dipper and Plunge. It all began in the roaring 1920s when sugar magnate John D. Spreckels envisioned the park to boost his Mission Beach real estate and electric railway ventures.
But Belmont Park quickly grew into much more than a business strategy — it became a destination where locals and visitors alike gathered for sun, surf and classic seaside fun.
How Belmont Park was saved
By 1976, Belmont Park was threatened with demolition, its future uncertain. But community groups, historic preservationists and longtime residents rallied together. The successful restoration sparked new life throughout the park, which reopened in 1988.
San Diego advances vacation rental tax
In October, San Diego officials took a step toward implementing a tax on vacation rentals and second homes. A city council committee advanced a proposal — despite fierce opposition from the Chamber of Commerce and other groups — that would put a measure on the June 2026 ballot, if it eventually receives approval from the full council.
