Giant Dipper Roller Coaster

The Giant Dipper Roller Coaster at Belmont Park is an absolute must-ride for anyone who loves classic wooden coasters! Built in 1925, this historic ride has been a San Diego icon for nearly a century, giving generations of thrill-seekers an unforgettable experience. The ride itself is fast, bumpy, and full of nostalgic charm, with its signature wooden track making every turn feel exciting. The climb to the top builds up just the right amount of anticipation before dropping into a series of fun twists and dips. And the best part? The incredible ocean views—there’s nothing like the feeling of racing along the track with the Pacific right beside you. It may not be the biggest or fastest coaster out there, but it has a personality and history that can’t be replicated. If you’re visiting Belmont Park, the Giant Dipper is a must-ride experience that perfectly captures the fun and nostalgia of this classic beachfront amusement park!

The Giant Dipper at Belmont Park in San Diego is a classic wooden roller coaster that offers a thrilling, nostalgic experience. Opened in 1925, it delivers a mix of steep drops, sharp turns, and airtime moments, all set against stunning ocean views. The ride has an old-school charm, and its vintage design adds to the excitement for coaster enthusiasts. However, the downside is its roughness—many of the turns and drops can be jarring, making the ride feel bumpy and uncomfortable for some. While this adds to its authentic, historic appeal, those seeking a smoother ride might find it a bit too harsh. Overall, it’s a must-ride for fans of traditional wooden coasters, but be prepared for a physically demanding experience.

A company outing was capped off with a ride on the roller coaster. We had no wait, perfect cooler weather, and a great ride. The views from the top were spectacular and the ride wasn’t too jerky.

My daughter and I visited San Diego for a quick sunshine getaway from the rain (Seattle). We met family for dinner, and they offered to take us to Belmont Park. I'm so thrilled they did. The roller coaster was extremely fun. The line only took about 10 minutes, and the ride itself was a thrill. I've been on a lot of rides lately, especially since we just got back from Disneyland, Universal Studios, and California Adventure. This one has a special place in my heart and I would call it my favorite. It was only 8 tickets to ride per person. It didn't jerk us around like a lot of old wooden coasters. For 100 years old, including a renovation, it really provides a thrill!!

Such a fun little coaster! Even got decent air time once or twice in the back. Would ride again!