Graffiti Shack Mission Beach. The Graffiti Shack on Mission Beach Jetty is one of those spots you can walk right by, over and over again for 20 years (yes, I did this!) and not even notice it’s there. Rumor has it that this random abandoned structure was once a bait shop. This was an awesome new discovery for our family, perfect for some fun climbing, breathtaking 360 views, and unique photo opportunities. We explored it at sunset, which can create some photo challenges, but what better place to watch the sunset? Let’s show you how incredible this spot is, and at the end we’ll provide some logistics and information on how to get here.
Enjoy the View on the Way
Our journey to the Graffiti Shack started off at the sand, as we hopped onto the big rocks. In the distance we could see the Graffiti Shack that we had not noticed all this time. Basically, your task is to walk (climb) along the jetty until you reach the shack. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and not carry around a ton of loose items. While the rocks are very sturdy and not that tough to navigate, we’d recommend this adventure for minimum age of 4 years old, with some help from an adult. We saw a few nervous grown women who were a bit overwhelmed by the walk along the jetty.
Sydney and her bestie handled it well without help, and the nervous 7 year old needed a little help with Daddy’s hand to find his confidence.
As you are making your way to the Graffiti Shack, don’t forget to look behind you and admire the view! This is a better angle of the jetty you are climbing out to the Graffiti Shack.
As you make your way to the Graffiti Shack, you’ll be along Mission Beach to your right…
…and you’ll have a view of Ocean Beach, and the Ocean Beach Pier to your left.
Graffiti Shack Mission Beach
Once you have arrived, the photo opportunities are endless! There is a backside as well, but at the time of this blog post there was an inappropriate phrase on their not worthy of putting in this blog. 🙂
Have fun and definitely stay for sunset as the beautiful sky turns to painted colors, especially if it’s wintertime…our sunsets are typically magical! Just be sure to make your way back before it gets too dark, as the jetty rocks will be a little tricky to navigate in the dark.
Take in the 360 beauty that will be all around you. You’ll be right out into the Pacific Ocean, further out than you would while just playing at the beach.
The best playdates are when we are out exploring!
Graffiti Shack at Sunset
The contrast of nature’s beauty with an abandoned structure that has been turned into art is quite remarkable!
Be sure to allow enough light for you to climb back…
Graffiti Shack – Details & Logistics
Getting there: The Graffiti Shack is located at the South Mission Beach Jetty. Head south on Mission Blvd in Mission Beach until the very end, and turn right. You’ll head into a parking lot. Note that this parking lot will be very busy during high season! Make sure your car is locked and valuables out of sight.
Need to know:
- Be sure to wear sturdy shoes (sneakers) and limit any loose articles. You want your hands free to make the trek to the Graffiti Shack. It’s not very far, but you’ll not want to risk dropping your phone or anything else in the rocks…or say goodbye to it!
- It’s always breezy by the ocean, so if it’s towards the evening bring a light jacket.
- Because of the climb to the jetty, we would recommend a minimum age of 4 to enjoy this adventure. Unless you are super confident carrying your little one in your arms and keeping your own balance.
- While in the area, pair it with a fun little outing kayaking with sea lions!
We hope you check out this hidden and unique gem of San Diego! The Graffiti Shack can be a quick stop along your day, and it’s truly unlike anything else! Have any questions or comments on the Graffiti Shack? Share them, we are listening!
