3 beaches near San Diego: Where to go for sun, sand, and surf
The tech hub of San Diego has a lot going for it. This is a city where you can really sample the best of everything. The influx of wealthy tech workers has led to a boom in restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, along with cultural attractions like the San Diego Museum of Art. This is a city with an excellent craft beer scene and a fascinating culture that combines Mexican and US influences. As the birthplace of California, San Diego has a rich history and enjoys a warm climate that means it's an ideal place for spending some time on the beach.
San Diego's beaches are often easy to reach from downtown San Diego, and they offer a place to recharge your batteries in nature and a way to cool off when the temperature climbs in summer. Remember that San Diego beaches are along the Pacific Ocean, so even in summer, the water is never that warm. In August, water temperatures reach around 70°F/21°C, which is definitely warm enough to swim, although it may seem cold when you first get in. In the winter months, you may need a wetsuit if you intend to spend long periods of time in the water.
The best San Diego beaches
When it comes to beaches in San Diego, you have a lot of options. San Diego Bay is surrounded by excellent beaches and coves, so whether you want a lively beach with lots of amenities, a quiet cove for natural swimming, a dog beach for your furry friend, or a park, like Torrey Pines State Beach, chances are good you can find it here. Here are some great beaches to get you started.
Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach, often called "OB" by locals, is a vibrant and eclectic beach community located just a few miles northwest of downtown San Diego. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and classic Southern California beach culture, Ocean Beach is a favorite spot for surfers, sunbathers, and anyone who is looking to experience a more relaxed, old-school vibe compared to some of the more commercialized beaches in the area.
The wide, sandy beach stretches for approximately one mile, offering plenty of space for beachgoers to spread out, sunbathe, and enjoy the Pacific Ocean. The waves at Ocean Beach are ideal for surfing, particularly around the northern end near the iconic Ocean Beach Pier, one of the longest concrete piers on the West Coast. The pier area is a popular spot for fishing, sightseeing, and watching the sunset, even though it is set to be replaced for safety reasons.
Ocean Beach is known for its strong sense of community and the eclectic mix of people who call it home. The Ocean Beach Farmers Market, held every Wednesday, draws locals and visitors with its selection of fresh produce, local goods, live music, and street food. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and grab some unique finds.
For dog lovers, Ocean Beach is home to Dog Beach, one of the most famous off-leash beaches in Southern California. Located at the northern end of the beach, near the mouth of the San Diego River, Dog Beach is a year-round haven for pets and their owners. Dogs are free to run, play, and swim in the ocean, so if you're traveling with your furry friend, make sure you stop by!
In addition to its charm, Ocean Beach hosts various events throughout the year, including the famous Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off in June, which brings the community together for food, music, and fun. The annual OB Holiday Parade is another popular event that showcases the town’s quirky spirit.
It's tempting when you first arrive in San Diego to head straight to the beach. If you haven't been able to check into your hotel or holiday accommodation and still have your bags with you, don't worry. Drop them off with Bounce at a luggage storage spot in San Diego so you can make the most of your trip and get some serious beach time in.
La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove is one of San Diego’s most picturesque and beloved coastal spots, located within the upscale seaside community of La Jolla, about 12 miles north of downtown San Diego. It has stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. La Jolla Cove is a favorite destination for swimmers, snorkelers, and nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and scenic beach experience.
The cove itself is a small, protected beach tucked between rugged cliffs, offering a more secluded environment compared to larger beaches like La Jolla Shores. While La Jolla Shores is known for its expansive sandy beach and beginner-friendly waves, La Jolla Cove’s calmer waters and proximity to the La Jolla Underwater Park make it a prime destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. This underwater ecological reserve covers 6,000 acres. It's one of the best spots in Southern California to see vibrant marine life such as garibaldi, rays, and leopard sharks up close.
One of the unique aspects of La Jolla Cove is the presence of sea lions and seals that frequently bask on the rocky shorelines and can be seen swimming in the water. Visitors can observe these animals at a safe distance while enjoying the natural beauty of the cove. Nearby, the Children’s Pool beach, another popular spot, also offers a closer look at seals, which often rest on the sand.
Beyond the marine life, La Jolla Cove is a fantastic location for kayaking and paddleboarding. It's possible to launch from nearby La Jolla Shores and paddle along the coastline to explore sea caves and hidden coves. Guided kayak tours are available, providing both beginners and experienced paddlers the chance to see the caves, wildlife, and the protected marine reserve from a unique perspective.
The land surrounding La Jolla Cove is part of Ellen Browning Scripps Park, a scenic green space perfect for picnicking, relaxing, or enjoying stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. This park provides an excellent vantage point to watch the sunset, and it also connects to the La Jolla Coast Walk Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the cliffs and ocean as you stroll along the path.
If you've come to La Jolla Cove to encounter California's nature at its best, you could hardly have picked a better place. But the lack of amenities here means you'll want to leave the bags behind before you visit. Let Bounce handle your luggage storage needs so that you can focus on enjoying this Pacific beach wilderness close to the city.
Mission Beach
Mission Beach is one of the most-loved beaches near San Diego, and you'll find it between the Pacific Ocean and Mission Bay, about 10 miles northwest of downtown. Known for its lively atmosphere, wide sandy shoreline, and famous boardwalk, a trip here will suit beachgoers, surfers, and those looking to soak up the quintessential Southern California beach lifestyle.
The beach itself stretches for nearly two miles, offering plenty of space for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and swimming. The waves at Mission Beach are consistent, making it a great spot for surfers of all levels, as well as bodyboarders and swimmers. Lifeguards are stationed along the beach, ensuring a safe environment for everyone. On calmer days, paddleboarding is also a popular activity in the bay areas. Or you can explore the tide pools and their abundant wildlife.
One of the standout features of Mission Beach is its Ocean Front Walk, a bustling boardwalk that runs along the beach and connects to neighboring North Pacific Beach to the north. The boardwalk is perfect for walking, biking, rollerblading, or people-watching. Lined with beachside shops, rental stores, cafes, and restaurants, it’s a great place to grab a bite, rent a bike, or just enjoy the ocean views.
At the heart of Mission Beach is the historic Belmont Park, a beachfront amusement park that has been a local favorite since the 1920s. Belmont Park is home to the iconic Giant Dipper Roller Coaster, along with other fun rides, games, and attractions. The park also offers casual dining options and a few beach bars, making it easy to transition from a day in the sun to an evening of entertainment.
Mission Beach is also known for its proximity to Mission Bay, a large aquatic park that offers calmer waters for sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. The bay is popular with families and water sports enthusiasts, and many visitors choose to spend part of their day enjoying both the ocean and bay sides of Mission Beach. Mission Bay also features grassy picnic areas, playgrounds, and paths for biking and walking.
For surfers, the southern end of Mission Beach near the Jetty is one of the best spots to catch consistent waves - nearby Tourmaline Surfing Park is a great option, too. This area is a bit quieter than the more crowded northern section of the beach, which is nice if you want to combine your surfing adventures with some relaxation.
Carrying a surfboard around town is no one's idea of a good time, but Bounce can help. Once you're done riding the waves, leave your board and other beach gear with us. That way, you can enjoy the city as well as some of the best beaches in California as you explore San Diego County and other gems like Solana Beach, Moonlight Beach, and San Onofre State Beach.