When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Bill Cleator Park
Why Bill Cleator Park is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Bill Cleator Community Park in Ocean Beach, San Diego, is a spacious 17-acre urban oasis perfect for socializing and outdoor recreation. Situated at the northeast corner of Nimitz Boulevard and Famosa Boulevard, the park offers a welcoming environment for friends and families to meet and enjoy themselves. With amenities including two ball fields, a large grassy area, playgrounds with swings and tot lots, and clean restroom facilities, it caters to a wide range of interests and age groups. The park is home to the Peninsula YMCA, a nonprofit facility that adds community-centered activities into the mix. Whether visitors want to engage in sports, enjoy picnics, take a leisurely walk on its well-maintained trails, or simply relax amid lush greenery, Bill Cleator Park provides a serene and picturesque setting. Its capacity to host up to 1,500 people makes it ideal for larger gatherings or community events. The park also features ample parking, convenient outdoor seating, and operates under a 12-hour schedule from 8:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. All these features combine to make Bill Cleator Park an excellent place for meeting friends and enjoying the outdoors throughout the year.
Here's what people think of Bill Cleator Park
As of recent, Bill Cleator Park holds a 4.3-star rating based on 255 reviews.
User reviews of Bill Cleator Community Park generally reflect a positive experience, with an average rating of 4.3 from 255 reviewers. Many visitors praise the park for its well-kept grounds, spacious ball fields, and family-friendly playgrounds. Positive feedback often highlights the park’s cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere, and versatile amenities that allow for varied activities such as jogging, picnicking, and sports. The availability of restroom facilities and onsite parking further contributes to user satisfaction. Reviewers also appreciate the park’s location in Ocean Beach, noting its serene natural environment and accessibility. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional overuse leading to crowded conditions, especially during weekends or events, which can detract from the tranquility. A few visitors noted that the park’s closing time at 8:00 P.M. is somewhat early for those seeking longer evening visits. Some also wished for more shaded areas and additional seating options. Overall, the reviews affirm that Bill Cleator Park is a well-loved community space that effectively balances natural beauty with recreational infrastructure, making it a favored spot for both locals and visitors looking for a friendly and vibrant environment to spend time with friends and family.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
619 OG
Super cool place to relax . Baseball fields....playground...drinking fountains and bathrooms . People bring their dogs here off leash . Also, little league is seasonal so good luck finding parking when there's games going on. People park on the red curbs!
Gregg Miskelly
Nice park with baseball fields and a playground, among other things. It is the only park that we found around Ocean Beach with swings.
Erika Price
This park is awesome. And BIG! With lots of room and parking and grass. My dog loved it. Tons of families come here and lots of sports are being played by all ages. Was nice to see people getting out and enjoying they're day/ weekend at this gem of a park. They have bathrooms that were clean and open to the public. Without any inconveniences. They're drive around staff were very nice and I enjoyed our short conversation we had. I felt like this park was definitely inviting. And we found it by mistake. But will return again, on purpose 😉. You can definitely have a large Birthday party or BBQ here and you won't be disappointed. Plenty of space at this Point Loma cornerstone for sure. ❤️ 🛝
Susan Blake
Great park with a lot going on. It would be nice if the maintenance gentleman would take a bit more pride in his work and keep it a bit cleaner. It seems PL Little League parents and coaches don't believe in accountability and leave a huge mess for him weekly.
Ryan Snyder
Was there for my son's high school baseball game. Park was clean. Not many homeless around. Bathroom was clean
How to reach Bill Cleator Park
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Why Bill Cleator Park may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Bill Cleator Park with your friends?
Bill Cleator Park offers an ideal setting for gathering with friends due to its accessible location, ample space, and variety of activities that accommodate all ages and interests. Located in the vibrant San Diego neighborhood of Ocean Beach, this 15.3-acre community park combines natural beauty with well-maintained recreational facilities, creating a relaxing and lively environment for social meetups. The park’s spacious grassy areas and sports fields make it versatile enough for casual picnics, group sports, or simply lounging in the sun, while playgrounds and tot lots cater to families with children. Its multiple parking lots and restrooms simplify planning, allowing groups to arrive without hassle. The gentle San Diego climate ensures that outdoor gatherings can be comfortably held year-round. Beyond just a place for passive enjoyment, Bill Cleator Park’s community-oriented atmosphere encourages camaraderie, making it perfect for friends looking to spend quality time together in a vibrant, natural setting that balances activity and relaxation. The friendly environment, combined with the park’s high rating and strong community use, underscores its appeal as a go-to venue for group meetups.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Bill Cleator Park?
Bill Cleator Park offers a diverse array of activities catering to individuals and groups, ensuring everyone finds something engaging to do. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the two well-maintained ball fields, perfect for baseball and softball games, which provide both casual players and organized leagues a dedicated space to compete and bond. For those who prefer more solitary or light exercise, the park features walking and running trails that wind through its lush, green landscape, inviting visitors to enjoy mild physical activity while soaking in the serene surroundings. Families can benefit from the playground equipped with swings and a tot lot, giving children safe and fun options to explore. The large grassy areas serve as adaptable spaces for frisbee, yoga, or spontaneous group activities like tag or picnic lounging. Additionally, the park’s birdwatching opportunities delight nature lovers, offering chance encounters with local wildlife against the backdrop of mature trees and scrub. The Peninsula YMCA, housed adjacent to or within the park, further enhances activity options for fitness classes and community programs. This broad selection of activities ensures that Bill Cleator Park is well-suited for both energetic adventures and leisurely meetups.
Why is Bill Cleator Park perfect for a group meetup?
Bill Cleator Park’s design and amenities make it exceptionally suitable for hosting group meetups. Its 17-acre area provides ample space for large groups to spread out comfortably, whether for organized events or casual hangouts. The availability of two ball fields means multiple games or sports activities can occur simultaneously without crowding, perfect for diverse groups with varied interests. For family-friendly gatherings, the mixed amenities including playgrounds and expansive grassy areas keep all members entertained, from toddlers to adults. The park is equipped with restrooms and multiple parking options, which alleviates logistical concerns that often complicate group outings. Moreover, its open layout encourages socializing while also allowing quieter spaces for smaller clusters within the group. The park’s 12-hour usage ban from 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM balances community respect with flexibility for daytime events. Located conveniently near major San Diego thoroughfares, Bill Cleator Park is easy for guests to find and access, enhancing its appeal as a meetup spot. Overall, the park’s combination of space, amenities, and accessibility creates a welcoming environment ideal for memorable group experiences.
How accessible is Bill Cleator Park for visitors?
Accessibility is a noteworthy strength of Bill Cleator Park, making it an inviting destination for visitors from across San Diego and surrounding areas. The park is located at the northeast corner of Nimitz Boulevard and Famosa Boulevard, a well-known intersection that is easy to navigate. Multiple spacious parking lots are available on-site, helping ease the challenge of finding parking during busy periods, a key factor when hosting group events. The park also maintains well-maintained paths and trails that are pedestrian-friendly, catering to walkers, runners, and even those with mobility challenges. Restrooms on-site increase visitor convenience, especially important for families and larger groups. The park's operating hours during daylight facilitate safety and comfort throughout most of the day. Furthermore, the proximity to other attractions and facilities like the Peninsula YMCA enhances the park’s accessibility and amenity offerings. Whether arriving by car or on foot, guests find Bill Cleator Park a hassle-free location that supports effortless meetups and recreation.
What makes the environment and scenic setting of Bill Cleator Park special?
Bill Cleator Park distinguishes itself with a beautiful natural environment that enriches every visit. The park encompasses over 15 acres of green space filled with mature trees, scrub vegetation, and well-maintained lawns that create a peaceful and inviting atmosphere. Its moderate trails are ideal for all fitness levels, weaving through picturesque landscapes that encourage visitors to pause and appreciate the tranquility of nature. The pleasant San Diego climate further enhances this experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the park comfortably throughout the year. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts particularly appreciate the opportunity to spot local wildlife amid the trees and scrub areas, adding an enriching dimension to recreational activities. The combination of open grassy expanses and shaded retreats caters to a multitude of preferences, whether guests want to relax under a tree or engage in active play. This balance of natural beauty and recreational infrastructure makes Bill Cleator Park not just a sports or activity center but also a serene oasis amid urban surroundings, perfect for anyone seeking both energy and relaxation in a group setting.
How can groups make the most of their visit to Bill Cleator Park?
Groups can maximize their enjoyment of Bill Cleator Park by planning activities that leverage the park’s varied amenities and accommodating layout. Starting with sports, arranging baseball or softball games on the ball fields can foster friendly competition and teamwork. For those less inclined toward sports, organizing a group walk or jog along the scenic trails can be both refreshing and inclusive, suitable for all fitness levels. Families with young children will find the playground a perfect spot for kid-friendly fun while parents relax nearby. Bringing a picnic to the large grassy areas encourages socializing and downtime complemented by the park’s natural beauty. Additionally, coordinating a birdwatching outing can add a unique educational twist to the meetup. Groups are advised to take advantage of the bathroom facilities and use the plentiful parking to ease arrival and departure logistics. Considering the park’s 8 AM to 8 PM usage hours ensures guests are mindful of timing, especially for larger or scheduled events. By blending active and passive activities in this versatile park, groups can create memorable, enjoyable experiences suited to diverse interests.
What should visitors know about the policies and logistics at Bill Cleator Park?
Visitors to Bill Cleator Park benefit from understanding some key policies and logistical details to ensure a smooth visit. The park is open during the daytime, typically from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with a 12-hour ban on use outside these hours to respect neighborhood quiet times. This schedule is important for planning meetups or events, particularly for larger groups that may require permits or reservation contact. The park has restrooms available on-site, which adds convenience for families and longer gatherings. The park’s large size and multiple parking lots provide ample capacity, often accommodating up to 1,500 visitors comfortably, a crucial consideration for group meetups. Contact details are available for reservations or inquiries, enhancing its suitability for events that require formal booking. Overall, respecting these guidelines helps maintain the park’s welcoming environment and ensures ongoing maintenance and community support.
How does Bill Cleator Park compare to other parks for group meetups?
Compared to other parks in San Diego, Bill Cleator Park stands out thanks to its combination of size, versatile facilities, and community-centric vibe. Its 15.3 acres offer a more expansive area than typical urban parks, providing enough space for simultaneous multi-activity group use without overcrowding. The presence of two ball fields is a unique advantage for sports-oriented groups, while playgrounds and large grassy areas cater broadly to family and casual visitors. Unlike some parks that might focus on passive use or a single activity, Bill Cleator supports a wider range of group interests. Its accessible location near main roads and ample parking further enhance its practicality. While other parks may excel in features like hiking trails or natural preserves, Bill Cleator offers a balanced mix of recreation, accessibility, and amenities that make it particularly appealing for hosting meetups of varying sizes and focus. This comprehensive offering explains its strong popularity and 4.3-star rating from hundreds of reviews.
What local attractions can complement a meetup at Bill Cleator Park?
Hosting a meetup at Bill Cleator Park can be complemented by exploring several nearby attractions that enrich the day’s experience. Situated in the Ocean Beach area of San Diego, the park is close to charming local shops, cafes, and eateries perfect for post-park refreshments or casual dining with friends and family. Visitors looking to extend their outing can also consider nearby natural attractions like the beach itself, offering opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, or beach games. For those interested in more diverse entertainment, major San Diego destinations such as the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, and large shopping centers like Fashion Valley Mall and Westfield UTC are within reasonable driving distance. These options allow groups to create a full-day itinerary that combines outdoor relaxation, recreational activities, and cultural or retail experiences, making Bill Cleator Park an excellent starting point for a rich social outing.
How has the community embraced and supported Bill Cleator Park?
The strong community embrace of Bill Cleator Park is evident in its heavy utilization and the establishment of complementary facilities like the Peninsula YMCA, which operates next to or within the park offering fitness and community programs. This nonprofit connection highlights the park's role as a hub for local social and health-oriented activities. Frequent use by residents for both organized sports leagues and informal gatherings underscores its importance as a communal space fostering social bonds and healthy lifestyles. The park’s maintained amenities and cleanliness reflect ongoing community support and municipal involvement, ensuring it remains a safe, attractive, and accessible place. Local engagement also helps preserve the park’s natural beauty and promotes respect for shared use policies. This active community participation helps sustain Bill Cleator Park’s reputation as a welcoming and well-loved green space in a busy urban environment, making it a trustworthy choice for hosting meaningful get-togethers.
What is the overall experience visitors report at Bill Cleator Park?
Visitors often report a highly positive experience at Bill Cleator Park, praising its blend of natural beauty, recreational options, and community atmosphere. The park’s clean environment, well-kept facilities, and variety of activities are frequently highlighted in user reviews that contribute to its solid 4.3-star rating. Many visitors appreciate the balance between spaces for energetic sports and quiet areas for relaxation or picnicking, allowing groups to tailor their outings to their specific preferences. The family-friendly playground and restroom availability enhance the appeal to diverse demographics. The accessibility via plentiful parking and proximity to main roads also receives compliments, reducing stress related to transportation. While some note typical urban park challenges like occasional crowding during popular times, the general consensus remains that Bill Cleator Park offers a pleasurable, versatile, and dependable venue. This positivity reinforces the park as a reliable choice for friends and families seeking an enjoyable meeting place outdoors.