History - The Plunge
Southern California's Largest Indoor
Heated Pool Built in 1925
Heated Pool Built in 1925
The Mission Beach Plunge in San Diego opened in May, 1925 as the centerpiece of Belmont Park. The 60' by 175' pool was, at the time, the largest salt-water pool in the world, holding 400,000 gallons of water. The building encapsulating The Plunge was designed after the Spanish Renaissance style buildings that were erected in San Diego's Balboa Park between 1915 and 1916, and was originally opened as the 'Natatorium'.
Other than the Giant Dipper roller coaster, also located at the Belmont Park, The Mission Beach Plunge is the only remaining structure to survive from the original Belmont Park. It's had over 1 million people learn to swim in its pool, including celebrities such as Esther Williams and Johnny Weissmuller.
Eventually in 1940, when the salt-water began to damage the filter system in the pool, fresh water was brought in and The Plunge became “The largest indoor heated pool in Southern California,” at 12,000 square feet. The pool continued to run smoothly, but was closed in April of 1987 due to failed city earthquake and fire requirements.
Eventually in 1940, when the salt-water began to damage the filter system in the pool, fresh water was brought in and The Plunge became “The largest indoor heated pool in Southern California,” at 12,000 square feet. The pool continued to run smoothly, but was closed in April of 1987 due to failed city earthquake and fire requirements.
This closure applied to the entire park, including The Giant Dipper, the roller coaster featured in Park, as well as all retail centers located throughout the remainder of the property. The Plunge, as well as the remainder of Belmont Park under went some major renovation and eventually the 12,000 square foot Plunge reopened in the summer of 1988 with a whole new look.
Though The Plunge endured many modifications, certain features historic to the pool were rescued and allowed to stay, such as the steps into the pool and the pedestal, located at the bottom of the steps. One of the last of its kind, the Plunge is available for infants and seniors and anyone in between who wants to cool off, get some exercise, and take a trip back in time.
