Summary
With 70 miles of beautiful coastline, San Diego is esteemed for its temperate climate, exceptional cuisine, numerous museums, premium shopping, and a plethora of recreational activities. Visiting the beach is an essential part of the experience in this vibrant city, and there is an array of beaches to explore.
Different beaches cater to diverse pursuits, including surfing, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Your choice may depend on the experiences you seek. To assist you in your exploration, we have curated a list of the 15 most notable beaches in San Diego.
1. Coronado Beach
The remarkable Coronado Municipal Beach comprises four distinct areas: Glorietta Bay Park, Coronado City Beach, Tidelands Park, and Centennial Park. Notably, scenes from the acclaimed film ‘Some Like It Hot,’ featuring Marilyn Monroe, were filmed on this beach.
The island is conveniently accessible via public bus, car, private shuttle, or taxi across the San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge. This family-friendly beach is also an excellent spot for kite flying due to its flat terrain.
For pet owners, the northern portion of the beach welcomes pets. Additionally, Coronado Beach is located near the renowned Hotel Del Coronado, which has been a favored destination for both royalty and celebrities since the 19th century.
2. Pacific Beach
Located between Mission Beach and La Jolla, Pacific Beach, often referred to as “The Strand,” spans two miles and is ideal for leisurely walks and family-friendly activities. This beach is among the most prominent in the San Diego area, attracting substantial crowds of visitors.
Rental facilities are available on-site for scuba diving gear, alongside numerous bars and restaurants in the vicinity. Please note that surfing is restricted to designated areas, with lifeguards present daily for safety.
Young adults will find this quaint beach town vibrant due to its energetic nightlife. The Raw Bar and JRDN Lounge are particularly popular among locals. Additionally, visitors can explore the historic 90-year-old Crystal Pier or enjoy a stroll along the 3.5-mile long boardwalk.
3. Ocean Beach
For dog owners, Ocean Beach provides a welcoming experience as it features a dog-friendly area where pets can roam freely without a leash.
At the opposite end of Ocean Beach lies the iconic Ocean Beach Pier, which is an excellent location for fishing. Notably, a California fishing license is not required to fish from this pier.
Numerous restaurants and bars are situated along the beach, offering relaxation opportunities to enjoy a drink or meal.
Travelers are advised to remain near the lifeguard towers when swimming due to the prevalence of strong rip currents. Surfing is permitted in certain sections of the beach, providing an additional recreational option.
4. La Jolla Shores
La Jolla Shores is a family-friendly beach that draws large crowds of both tourists and locals. This beach is one of the best locations in the area for surfing, paddleboarding, and scuba diving lessons, thanks to its sandy bottom and convenient access to the ocean.
A pleasant stroll through the adjacent Kellogg Park is perfect for picnics, or visitors may opt to explore the nearby Steven Birch Aquarium. While fishing is not permitted at La Jolla Shores, certain areas are designated for surfing.
A sizable grassy area adjacent to the beach is popular for regular yoga classes, attracting participants from across the region.
5. Tourmaline Surfing Park
A hidden treasure situated in North Pacific Beach, Tourmaline Surfing Park is a favored location for surfing and sailboarding. Enclosed by cliffs rising 75 feet, this exceptional beach is divided into two separate zones: one designated for surfing and the other for swimming, with lifeguards present at all times.
Due to its relative seclusion, Tourmaline Surfing Park provides a tranquil environment for travelers seeking peace and quiet.
Facilities include a parking lot, showers, and restrooms. However, travelers should exercise caution when accessing the beach via the rocky terrain, as it can be somewhat hazardous.
6. Imperial Beach
Located a short drive from Tijuana, Mexico, Imperial Beach is renowned for hosting the U.S. Open Sand Castle Competition during the summer months. This beach is the southernmost in California and is home to over 300 bird species, making it an appealing destination for birdwatchers.
Visitors can engage in swimming and surfing or opt for nature hikes along the numerous trails. The beach features a pier, one of the most popular fishing locations in the region, offering breathtaking views of the Los Coronados Islands.
Surfers adore this beach, which is also conveniently located near the famous Surfboard Museum, within walking distance.
7. Mission Beach
Boasting stunning ocean views, Mission Beach is among the most frequented beaches in the city due to its prime location. The well-known Belmont Park is nearby, and Ocean Front Walk is just a short walk away.
The beach is well-equipped with facilities such as showers, restrooms, fire pits, and a considerable presence of lifeguards.
A free public parking lot is conveniently located near Belmont Park, and numerous restaurants and bars line Ocean Front Walk for those wishing to dine out.
8. Windansea Beach
Located in La Jolla, Windansea Beach is known for its excellent surf breaks and breathtaking views. This beach attracts experienced surfers and sunbathers looking for solitude.
Due to the waves crashing directly against the shoreline, swimmers are advised to exercise extreme caution when entering the water.
Additionally, Windansea Beach and its rocky cliffs provide opportunities for whale watching during migration seasons. If descending to the beach via the cliffs, be mindful that some paths can be steep, presenting challenges for older adults and those with mobility concerns.
9. Silver Strand
Comprising beaches lining the San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean, Silver Strand is ideal for a variety of activities, including boating, water skiing, kayaking, swimming, surfing, and beach volleyball.
Pedestrian tunnels beneath the busy street connect all the beaches, facilitating easy access to the oceanfront. This area is also suitable for oceanfront RV camping, with barbecue pits, fire rings, and picnic tables available for communal use. Pets are welcome, but they are prohibited on the beach itself, except in designated camping areas.
10. Cardiff-by-the-Sea
Just north of San Diego lies Cardiff-by-the-Sea, a small community encompassing the 900-acre Elijo Lagoon and two miles of picturesque beach.
The renowned Cardiff Reef, a popular surf destination, is easily visible from Highway 101, making it an ideal spot to witness impressive surfers tackling high waves.
Additionally, San Elijo Park features more than 170 campsites with fire rings and picnic tables. Those seeking culinary delights can venture to the Restaurant Row area, which is home to some of the finest cuisine on the West Coast.
11. Solana Beach
Located in San Diego’s North Country, Solana Beach is home to numerous hidden coves and popular surfing locations. It boasts five prime surfing spots: Del Mar Shores, frequented largely by locals; Seaside, which is favored for its surfing and an outer reef; Tide Beach, known for its pristine white sand; Fletcher Cove, another favorite among surfers; and Seascape Beach, which attracts both tourists and locals alike.
Facilities on-site include showers and restrooms, with lifeguard presence during the busy summer season.
12. Del Mar City Beach
Del Mar City Beach is an excellent choice for families with children. The northern portion of the beach welcomes pets and extends from 15th Street to the Rivermouth.
Powerhouse Park and Seagrove Park, located along 15th Street, serve as ideal venues for picnics, weddings, and other social events.
The southern area of Del Mar City Beach offers a more rugged ambiance featuring cliffs and tidal pools. Travelers should exercise caution on the steep trails descending to the beach.
If you enjoy jogging or hiking, a dirt path extends for miles along the coastline.
13. Torrey Pines State Beach and Park
Torrey Pines State Beach and Park comprises two distinct sections: a park featuring eight miles of trails with the unique torrey pine tree and the beach located 300 feet below the park.
This area is a favorite among families, offering fine white sand, restroom facilities, and lifeguards. Children particularly enjoy the northern lagoon area, providing hours of splashing and exploration.
Visitors should note that there are no dining establishments on-site, so it is advisable to bring along food and beverages for a day at the beach. Ample parking is available along the bustling approach road.
14. Moonlight Beach
Moonlight Beach is a family-friendly destination featuring a designated snack area, snack bar, and several restrooms. The beach also offers well-maintained spaces for football and volleyball.
Families appreciate this beach for its safety, allowing parents to relax while their children play near the water. Paid parking is available above the beach, alongside ample street parking options.
After a fulfilling day at the beach, visitors can venture into the city for dinner at one of the cozy restaurants.
15. Black’s Beach
Black’s Beach is a clothing-optional destination that is favored for surfing and showcases breathtaking scenery. Surprisingly, many families frequent this beach to enjoy its tranquility.
Situated beneath the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, this beach offers remarkable views of San Diego’s coastal towns to the north and La Jolla to the south.
The scenic vistas are only one aspect of Black’s Beach’s appeal; the renowned surf break also attracts surfers from near and far.
Parking is most convenient near the Torrey Pines Gliderport, and the Ho Chi Minh Trail provides an ideal route to access the sands.
