San Diego is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. With over 70 miles of coastline, locals and tourists alike have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to soaking up the sun, swimming in the ocean, and enjoying all that the beach has to offer.
Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a place to surf, San Diego has a beach for everyone.
The beaches in San Diego offer more than just sand and waves. Many of them have amenities such as restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, making them perfect for a day out with the family or a group of friends.
Some of the beaches even offer fire pits, allowing visitors to enjoy a bonfire while watching the sunset over the ocean.
Aside from the amenities, San Diego's beaches are also known for their picturesque views. From the rugged cliffs at Torrey Pines State Beach to the iconic pier at Ocean Beach, each beach has its own unique charm.
San Diego's beaches are also home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and even whales during certain times of the year.
Whether you're a local or just visiting, San Diego's beaches are a must-see. In this blog post, we'll be highlighting some of the best beaches in the area and what makes them special.
From the popular tourist spots to the hidden gems, we've got you covered. So grab your sunscreen and let's hit the sand!
1. La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove is a picturesque beach that offers stunning views of the ocean. It's a popular spot for swimming, diving and snorkeling.
The beach is home to a variety of sea creatures, including seals and sea lions.
Visitors can enjoy walking along the shore, watching the sunset or having a picnic with family and friends. Although parking can be a challenge, the beach is well worth the effort.
With its clean bathrooms and permanent lifeguard stations, La Jolla Cove is a perfect destination for a day of fun in the sun.
2. Dog Beach
Dog Beach is a haven for dog owners and their furry companions. This beach allows dogs to run around leash-free and enjoy the water.
The beach is clean, and there is an area for smaller dogs to play in without waves.
Visitors should be aware that the beach can get crowded, and some owners may not be responsible for their dogs.
However, the beach's popularity brings dogs of all temperaments, making it a great place for socialization. Dog Beach is a must-visit for dog owners looking for a fun day out at the beach.
3. Windansea Beach
Windansea Beach is a popular spot for surfers with big waves and warm water.
The beach is unique with beautiful rocks and a palm-covered surf shack. It's a great place for photography with stunning sunsets over the ocean.
The atmosphere is peaceful and tranquil with plenty of locals chilling and surfing.
There is limited parking available, but it's worth the visit to this hidden treasure. Don't miss out on this slice of heaven if you're stopping by San Diego.
4. Law Street Beach
Law Street Beach is a popular destination for surfers and beachgoers. With lifeguards on duty, visitors can safely swim and surf in the ocean.
The beach is clean, and there are multiple bathrooms and showers available.
While parking can be a bit difficult, visitors can enjoy the stunning views from the grassy cliff overlooking the waves.
Law Street Beach is also a great spot for a peaceful walk or run, especially about an hour before sunset. Don't forget to bring a fire pit for a cozy beach bonfire.
5. Torrey Pines City Beach
Torrey Pines City Beach is a hidden gem in the La Jolla area.
The walk to the beach is hilly, but the view is worth it. The beach is clean, beautiful, and perfect for walking.
The surf is good, and there are a few patches of rock. The hidden house adds to the charm of the beach.
It's one of the nicest beaches in the area, and definitely worth a visit.
6. Mission Beach
Mission Beach is a quintessential California beach community with a great beach and boardwalk. It offers a wide range of activities to enjoy, such as swimming, boogie boarding, and people watching.
Visitors should be careful when swimming in the water and stay near lifeguards to avoid rip currents.
The beach also has a variety of food options and shops to explore.
Parking can sometimes be an issue, but it's worth it to experience the great views and peaceful sound of waves crashing on the shore.
7. Coronado Shores Beach
Coronado Shores Beach is a must-visit for beach lovers. The beach is clean and offers a great view of the ocean.
Visitors can collect seashells and San dollars while enjoying the calming sound of waves.
The beach is perfect for a relaxing day out with family and friends.
If you're looking for a serene spot to unwind, Coronado Shores Beach is the place to be.
8. Grace Beach
Grace Beach is a beautiful public beach that offers a great view of the city when the sun sets.
The beach is clean, and there are fire pits available for those who want to have a bonfire.
The only downside is that there are too many plantations in the water, but the view of Coronado Island and boats is amazing.
There are also many great restaurants nearby, making it a perfect tourist attraction.
9. Shell Beach
Shell Beach is a stunning little beach that is perfect for those who want to relax and enjoy the beauty of the ocean.
The water is clear and not too cold, making it ideal for swimming. Visitors can also explore the tide pools, which are full of hermit crabs and crabs during low tide.
The beach is also home to California seal pups, pelicans, and sea gulls, making it an excellent spot for wildlife watching.
The small strip of sand is accessible via a steep staircase, and visitors should plan accordingly for parking. If you're looking for a peaceful and picturesque beach, Shell Beach is definitely worth a visit.
10. La Jolla Shores Beach
La Jolla Shores Beach is a beautiful and popular beach close to shops and eateries.
The beach offers soft sand and calm waves, making it perfect for swimming and kayaking. Visitors can also spot leopard sharks, Garibaldi fish, and sea lions with their pups.
The beach is clean and well-maintained, with lifeguards on duty and restrooms available.
While parking can be difficult during peak times, the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere make it worth the effort.
11. Ocean Beach City Beach
Ocean Beach City Beach is a picturesque and serene destination for beach lovers. The beach is impeccably clean and well-maintained, making it a perfect spot for relaxation.
The beach is adorned with smiling faces that add to the overall pleasant ambiance.
Visitors can enjoy a peaceful time soaking up the sun and taking in the stunning views of the ocean.
Ocean Beach City Beach is a must-visit for those looking for a calming and rejuvenating experience.
12. Tourmaline Beach
Tourmaline Beach is a hidden gem for surfers and beachgoers alike. With a clean and spacious beach, visitors can enjoy slow waves perfect for learning how to surf.
Public restrooms and showers are available, and there is plenty of parking nearby.
The beach offers a secluded feel, making it a great spot for a family get-together or a peaceful walk on the sand.
Don't miss out on the stunning sunset views from the top of the hill. Tourmaline Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking for a relaxing day by the ocean.
13. Boomer Beach
Boomer Beach is a must-visit spot for wildlife enthusiasts. The beach is home to a large number of seals and sea lions that can be seen swimming and sunbathing.
The animals are used to humans, so visitors can get quite close without disturbing them.
However, be prepared for the strong smell that comes with these creatures. The beach can get crowded during the day, so it's advisable to plan accordingly.
Despite the smell, the amazing views and the opportunity to see these creatures in their natural habitat make Boomer Beach a unique and worthwhile destination.
14. Kellogg Beach
Kellogg Beach is a great spot for families with small children. This small beach has no waves, making it a safe and fun place for kids to splash around in the water.
Although parking can be difficult, the beautiful view of boats heading out to the ocean is worth the search for a spot.
During low tide, there is more beach to explore, and kayaking is a popular activity. While there may be occasional bad smells, they are rare and do not detract from the overall experience.
If you're looking for a local's spot with plenty of room to swim and paddleboard, Kellogg Beach is a great choice.
15. South Mission Beach, San Diego
South Mission Beach in San Diego is a lively and popular destination for beach-goers. With its wide sandy beach and a variety of activities including volleyball, surfing, and basketball, visitors will have plenty to keep them entertained.
The beach also offers clean restrooms and showers, making it a convenient spot for a day out.
Fire pits are available for those who want to cook their own food or enjoy the warmth of a fire as the sun sets. The beach is also pet-friendly, making it a great place to bring your furry friends.
With so much to offer, South Mission Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun-filled day at the beach.
16. Mission Beach Park
Mission Beach Park is a popular destination for beachgoers in San Diego. The beach is clean and well-maintained, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sun.
The park area is large and offers a variety of activities, including bike rentals and boogie board rentals.
The boardwalk is great for a run or for skating, and the sunsets are amazing.
Though parking can be difficult to find, it's worth the effort to spend a day at this beautiful beach.
