By: Jeff Savenick

I was looking for a romantic getaway destination where my wife, Elizabeth, and I could celebrate our fourth wedding anniversary. I wanted to take her somewhere spectacular. Paradise Point Resort was the right choice. It is an island all on its own, nestled on 44 acres surrounded by beautiful Mission Bay. Movie Producer, Jack Skirball, envisioned and developed the property as a fantasy island vacation destination and movie set that would attract families for many generations. He was right. Half a century later, Paradise Point is still a popular getaway destination. To honor their history, Paradise Point is planning a 50th Anniversary celebration this October. Be sure to check it out.

1. Paradise Point Resort is a tropical getaway.

As Elizabeth and I crossed the Mission Bay Bridge and turned down Vacation Road we were immediately drawn into the property by a neat line of twinkling palm trees, guiding us to the reception. Stepping out of my car I instantly felt as if I had arrived on a tropical island. The property is abundant with sub-tropical foliage. The lobby is expansive, beautiful and the décor is Balinese.

2. Outdoor Activities.

Paradise Point is filled with activities! There is so much to choose from. Sailboats from 14’ to 22’ can be rented by the hour. If you’re not a sailor they provide lessons. Jet Skis, Motor Boats, Water Skiing, Paddle Boats, Kayaks, singles, and doubles are available. Mission Bay is the perfect spot. The water is calm and beautiful. If you like to fish you can charter a six-person fishing yacht complete with rods, tackle and bait from the Dana landing for half-day or a 2-day excursion. Another great way to cruise the island is to go for a ride on a beach cruiser, elliptical bike, or four-seated pedal bike.

3. There are five pools to choose from.

If you are on a family vacation or a romantic getaway there are five pools you can swim in or lounge around. There also is an adults’ only pool.  The main pool is shaped like a lagoon with a sloped entry great for young children to play.

4. The Service.

I was really impressed by the genuine warmth of the people who work at Paradise Point Resort. The service was first-rate. When we arrived, hostess Iryna Darashenka greeted us. Since there was a short wait to be checked in, she gifted us with chocolate chip cookies. All of the staff whom my wife and I encountered really gave us great, friendly customer service, from the spa to the gift shop.

5 . The Spa.

Elizabeth and I enjoyed a couples’ massage. This was one of our favorite moments of our stay. Massage therapist, Desiree therapeutically kneaded my tight muscles. It was a massage that I didn’t want to end and I know Elizabeth felt the same about her Ayuervedic hot oil massage from Jesse. There are an impressive number of spa treatments to choose from, and the spa facilities are first rate. The bathrobes were so luxurious and comfortable that my wife wanted to buy one to take home.

6. The Food.

There are two restaurants on the property and a Tropics Bar & Grill located by the main pool. The restaurants have everything from delicious salads to appetizing grilled entrees, as well as a specialty island drinks. The Barefoot Bar & Grill is a great place for lunch. You can dine in-doors or out on the patio overlooking the bay.

I enjoyed the herb-crusted chicken and mashed potatoes over a savory pumpkin sauce. It was delicious. (Beware of Harold the Herring, on the patio; he will steal your lunch in a heartbeat. He is a great bird to take a photo of, but be sure to steer clear of him when your meal comes.) For a fine dining dinner experience, Baleen was enjoyable. Baleen has an exquisite menu. I enjoyed the blue fin tuna and my wife really liked the scallop appetizer and polenta with roasted vegetables. At the time we visited, the restaurant offered a 3 for $30 menu which included an appetizer, meal, and desert for $30. Baleen also has an excellent wine selection.

7The Fitness Center has all the equipment you’ll need to get a really good workout. It is conveniently located in the spa area by the lagoon/pool. After a workout, you can treat tired muscles to cool off in the pool, a deep tissue massage, or a dip in the private Jacuzzi!

8. Sea World is located just outside the property. You don’t have to go far to take the kids on an adventure. You’ll spend more time buckling them into their car seats then the actual drive to the water park.

9. The Rooms were all renovated in March 2010. Beautiful bay views and garden views are available on the island. The prices vary by the season. In summer they range from $275 to $600 a night. After Labor Day the rooms are $175 a night to $500. They have special rates and discounts for extended stays over 3 nights.

10. The property is close to Downtown San Diego.

It is a short 10 minute drive to Downtown San Diego. There is so much to do at Paradise Point that Elizabeth. And I never made it there, but it is nice to have the option to venture off the Island.

You Should Know: 

1. You can buy a Smores pack and firewood in the gift shop and roast marshmallows at the fire pits on the bay beach.

2. Bring a change of warm clothing because the temperature does drop at night.

3. Parking is not included in the room rate. It is $32 a day. If you get the extended stay packages often this charge will be either reduced or waived.

4. Locals get 10% off in the gift store.

5. The spa has a private Jacuzzi that you can rent by the hour.

About the Author: Jeff Savenick is a Television Producer, Director, Writer, And Editor. He has worked on many high profile shows such as MTV’s “Real World”, “Gene Simmons Family Jewels” and “Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills”. Jeff is passionate about traveling  and has written for  Johnnyjet.com before, check out his archived article on Anna Maria Island. 

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