Whether you live in the San Diego area or are just visiting, make sure to head for Mission Beach, this week's best beach. Just be sure to head there early, because parking can be a problem later in the day.

There's a lot more to Mission Beach than just sand, although there's 2 miles of that. There's a family amusement park, Belmont Park, that has rides, food, and games, including a simulated wave that lets young and old surfers practice or try out the sport. Another big draw is the Big Dipper, a roller coaster whose relatively small size and height disguise a wild ride of drops, hills, curves, and speed that will delight the most ardent roller coaster fan. In addition to those features, the Big Dipper Roller Coaster was built in 1925 (no worries, it's been restored since then!) and is one of the two original roller coasters built along the Pacific Coast that's still in operation.

The south end of Mission Beach park is the place for beach volleyball; there are games going on from morning to dark. So wear a pair of shorts that will let you play and surf in style, top them with a cool tank and carry a sturdy bag that has room for a towel, water, shades, cell phone, and a volleyball.

You may want to include walking, jogging, or biking shoes in that bag, too. Another great feature of Mission Beach is the boardwalk. It extends for miles, all the way around Mission Beach and down the coast, and has lanes for walking and biking. There are plenty of places along Mission Beach where you can rent a bike or board, too. The boardwalk itself ends at the north point of Pacific Beach, but a bike path continues all the way to downtown La Jolla, for serious bikers.

So pack your bag for your choice of activities, even if it's just soaking up the sun, and head for Mission Beach. You'll have a great day in the southern California sun!