13 Best San Diego Beaches in 2024 (with Map)
CURIOUS ABOUT THE BEST BEACHES NEAR SAN DIEGO?
You’re in the right place to discover the best San Diego beaches! I have done extensive research and gathered several locals’ insights, and I’m here to offer you all my insider info.
While Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, and Coronado Beach are considered the most popular, there is no shortage of quieter yet stunning beaches near San Diego.
Though there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in San Diego itself, visiting the beaches is at the top of any San Diego visitor’s list.
In this article, you’ll discover the Top 13 best beaches in San Diego, and what you need to know to visit!
Some of the ones featured include La Jolla Cove, famous for snorkeling and scuba diving options, Sunset Cliffs, where you can see some of the best sunset views in San Diego, and my favorite Torrey Pines State Beach.
Ready to discover all the best beaches in San Diego? Let’s get to it, starting with a map of San Diego beaches, which will give you a better idea of which beaches are located where.
San Diego County Beaches: Quick Rundown
Below is a short description of San Diego beaches and who would be interested in visiting each of them.
While you can swim in all of them, there are some unique activities that make each one of San Diego’s beaches unique. Not all beaches are created equal, meaning some are better for hiking and enjoying stunning views, some you’ll need a rental car to visit, and some you can take your dog and let him run without a leash.
Families with small children
Mission Beach, Coronado Beach, and La Jolla Shores Beach are the best beaches in San Diego for families with small children.
Beginner surfers
Pacific Beach, La Jolla Shores Beach, Ocean Beach, and Mission Beach are the best beaches in San Diego for beginner surfers.
Gentle waves, plenty of surf shops and lifeguard services make these beaches the best for novice surfboarders. If you are more experienced, you can venture out to beaches with more rugged coastlines and higher waves that could better challenge your skills.
Nightlife seekers
Mission Beach and Pacific Beach are the best beaches in San Diego for nightlife.
There, you can enjoy the evening by numerous fire pits, or find a beach bar with a party that matches your vibe.
Dog owners
Coronado North Beach, Del Mar Dog Beach, and Ocean North Beach are the best beaches in San Diego for dog owners.
Here, dogs can run off-leash and play in the sand and water. The rules for the off-leash times differ on each beach and can change during the year, so check them online before you go.
Hikers
Torrey Pines State Beach and Sunset Cliffs are the best beaches in San Diego for hiking.
If your intention is to soak up breathtaking views of the striking coastline cliffs, then head out to these beaches. There are coastal trails that you can enjoy during the day and nice spots for viewing the sunset from the cliffs above the Pacific Ocean.
Camping enthusiasts
San Elijo State Beach and Campland on Mission Bay are the best beaches in San Diego for camping.
For those of you who want to wake up with an ocean view from the entrance of your tent, consider camping in the designated areas near these beaches.
Best San Diego Beaches
Mission Beach
Mission Beach is one of San Diego’s most lively and vibrant coastal areas, offering a classic beach experience with a modern twist. Stretching just over two miles between the Pacific Ocean and Mission Bay, it is a place where sun, sand, and surf meet a bustling boardwalk and an array of outdoor activities.
The beach is renowned for its wide expanse of sand and a dedicated boardwalk that runs its entire length, providing a perfect spot for jogging, biking, and rollerblading. The boardwalk is lined with a variety of souvenir shops, eateries, and rental outlets, making it easy for visitors to grab a bite or rent beach gear. It’s a great place to spend some time together with your significant other or family.
For those looking to catch some waves, the northern end of Mission Beach offers some of the best surfing spots in San Diego, with waves suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers. The beach also features designated areas for swimming and volleyball, ensuring that everyone can find an activity they enjoy.
Belmont Park, located at the heart of Mission Beach, is a popular attraction featuring the historic Giant Dipper Roller Coaster, an amusement park staple since 1925. This iconic roller coaster is not just a thrill ride but also a designated National Historic Landmark.
Families and groups often take advantage of the picnic areas, fire rings, and playgrounds scattered along the beach. These facilities are well-maintained and provide a comfortable setting for a day out in the sun.
Mission Beach is not only about daytime fun; it also offers a vibrant nightlife. As the sun sets, the beach transforms with the glow of beachfront bonfires and the buzz of nightlife from nearby bars and clubs.
In terms of accessibility, there are multiple public parking lots near the beach, although they can fill up quickly during peak season. Public restrooms and showers are also available for beachgoers’ convenience.
Pacific Beach
Pacific Beach serves as one of San Diego’s premier destinations for beachgoers looking for a vibrant and youthful atmosphere. Known to locals as “P.B.,” this beach stretches for miles with its soft, golden sands and is a haven for sunbathers, swimmers, and surfers alike.
The beach is particularly famous for its Crystal Pier, a landmark that offers stunning ocean views and a chance to fish without a license. The pier is also home to a hotel where guests can stay in cottages directly over the water, providing a unique beachfront experience.
Pacific Beach’s boardwalk, officially known as Ocean Front Walk, is a bustling thoroughfare where people of all ages skate, bike, and walk against a backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. The boardwalk is dotted with an array of shops, restaurants, and bars, making it a lively spot to explore both day and night.
Surfing is a popular activity here, with areas designated for both beginners and those with more experience. The waves at Pacific Beach are consistent, and surf schools along the beach offer lessons and board rentals.
For those who prefer calmer waters, the north end of Pacific Beach, near the mouth of Mission Bay, is typically more sheltered and offers gentler conditions for paddleboarding and swimming.
Pacific Beach is not just about the water; it also boasts Kate Sessions Park, a grassy area on a hill that provides panoramic views of the city and the sea, ideal for picnics and kite flying.
Parking can be a challenge, especially during summer and weekends, but there are several large public parking lots and street parking available if you arrive early enough. Facilities such as public restrooms, showers, and lifeguard stations are well-placed for convenience and safety.
The nightlife in Pacific Beach is vibrant, with numerous pubs, nightclubs, and casual eateries offering a variety of dining and entertainment options. The area is particularly popular with college students and young adults.
Coronado Beach
Coronado Beach in San Diego is famed for its idyllic coastal charm, pristine sands, and family-friendly atmosphere. Stretching along the oceanfront of Coronado Island, it is consistently ranked among the best beaches in the United States.
The beach is most notable for its sparkling mica-infused sand, which gives it a distinctive golden sheen. This mineral, found in the area’s unique sand, causes the beach to glitter under the sunlight, creating a magical effect that adds to the allure of the location.
One of the most iconic landmarks here is the Hotel del Coronado. This grand Victorian building, built in 1888, is not only a luxury resort but also a National Historic Landmark. Its red-roofed turrets and elegant architecture provide a picturesque backdrop for beachgoers and a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
Coronado Beach is divided into several areas, with Central Beach being the most popular for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. The northern end, known as North Beach, is dog-friendly, making it a favorite for pet owners who want to enjoy the beach with their furry friends.
The beach’s gentle waves make it an excellent spot for beginners in surfing and bodyboarding, while the wide expanse of sand is perfect for building sandcastles or simply relaxing. Lifeguard services are available, ensuring a safe environment for all water activities.
For those interested in a quieter experience, the southern end of the beach, near the Coronado Shores condominiums, tends to be less crowded. Here, visitors can enjoy a more serene setting.
Amenities at Coronado Beach include public restrooms, showers, and free parking along Ocean Boulevard. However, parking can be limited, so arriving early or using alternative transportation is advisable.
Nearby, Orange Avenue boasts a plethora of dining and shopping options.
The beach is also known for its spectacular sunsets, where the sky turns into a canvas of vibrant colors, providing a perfect end to a day spent on its shores.
La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove is a small, picturesque cove tucked away in the heart of La Jolla, a community of San Diego. Renowned for its stunning beauty, the cove is encircled by towering cliffs and offers one of the most photographed beaches in Southern California.
This beach is particularly famous for its abundant marine life. It is part of the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park and Ecological Reserve, which helps to protect the area’s natural beauty and inhabitants. This means fishing and the removal of objects from this area are prohibited, preserving the vibrant ecosystem.
Snorkeling and scuba diving are premier activities at La Jolla Cove due to the clear waters and the chance to swim with a variety of fish, rays, and even harmless leopard sharks. The water visibility can sometimes exceed 30 feet, which is a delight for underwater enthusiasts.
The cove’s waters are usually calm, making it a safe spot for families and swimmers of all levels. However, it’s important to note that the beach area itself is quite small and can get crowded, especially during summer and weekends.
Seal and sea lion sightings are common here, with the animals often seen basking on the rocks nearby. While they are a major attraction, visitors are advised to keep a respectful distance to protect both the wildlife and themselves.
Amenities at La Jolla Cove include lifeguard services, restrooms, and showers. There are also grassy parks adjacent to the beach, perfect for picnicking with a view. Parking can be challenging in the area, so visitors might consider arriving early or using public transportation.
The cove is not only a haven for marine life but also for art lovers. The nearby La Jolla Village is filled with art galleries, boutiques, and fine dining establishments, adding a cultural touch to the visit.
La Jolla Shores Beach
La Jolla Shores Beach is a beloved stretch of coastline located in the La Jolla neighborhood of San Diego. This beach is particularly known for its gentle waves and soft, clean sand, making it an ideal spot for families, swimmers, and beginner surfers.
Spanning approximately a mile long, La Jolla Shores is flanked by the more secluded Scripps Pier to the north and the rocky headlands of La Jolla Cove to the south. The beach is a part of the larger San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park, a marine refuge area that ensures the protection of its aquatic wildlife.
One of the key features of La Jolla Shores is its wide, flat sandy beach, which provides ample space for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and sandcastle building. The beach is also a popular launch point for kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders, who often venture out to explore the nearby sea caves and the ecological reserve.
For those interested in learning to surf, La Jolla Shores offers some of the most beginner-friendly surfing conditions in San Diego, with several surf schools located right on the beach offering lessons and equipment rentals.
The beach is equipped with excellent facilities, including ample parking, playgrounds, picnic areas, restrooms, and showers. Lifeguard services are provided year-round, with increased coverage during the busy summer months.
Adjacent to the beach is Kellogg Park, a grassy area perfect for picnics and outdoor activities. The park also features a playground for children, making it a complete family-friendly destination.
Evening brings about a different charm to La Jolla Shores, with beachgoers often gathering around fire pits to enjoy the sunset and the warm glow of bonfires.
Despite its popularity, La Jolla Shores maintains a sense of tranquility, partly due to its residential backdrop, which lacks the commercial intensity of some other San Diego beaches.
Sunset Cliffs
Sunset Cliffs stands out among San Diego’s beaches, not just for its sandy stretches but for its dramatic coastal bluffs. Located along the Point Loma Peninsula, this area is named for the mesmerizing sunsets that paint the sky as the day winds down.
The cliffs are a geological marvel, with layers of sandstone that have been eroded by the ocean to create a series of caves, arches, and ledges. This rugged coastline offers a different kind of beach experience, where the focus is on the natural scenery and the powerful force of the ocean.
Surfing is popular at Sunset Cliffs, especially at spots like Luscomb’s Point, where experienced surfers often take to the waves. However, the rocky shore and strong currents mean that it’s not an ideal place for beginners or swimmers.
For those looking to explore, the area is crisscrossed with trails that lead down to hidden beaches and tide pools. At low tide, these tide pools reveal a microcosm of marine life, where visitors can observe sea anemones, crabs, and various small fish in their natural habitats.
Photographers and nature lovers flock to Sunset Cliffs for its unobstructed ocean views and the chance to witness the green flash, a phenomenon that occurs just after sunset on clear days.
While Sunset Cliffs does not offer the typical beach amenities like restrooms and lifeguard stations, its appeal lies in its natural state and the sense of adventure it provides. Visitors should be prepared for limited facilities and use caution when walking near the cliff edges.
Parking along the street is available, but it can be limited during peak times, especially around sunset. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot and to ensure they have enough time to find a prime location for watching the sunset.
Moonlight State Beach
Moonlight State Beach is a quintessential Southern California beach located in the city of Encinitas, north of San Diego. This beach is a favorite among locals and visitors for its family-friendly atmosphere and wide range of amenities.
One of the defining features of Moonlight State Beach is its recreational facilities, which include volleyball courts, tennis courts, and a children’s playground. These facilities make it an ideal spot for active beachgoers looking to engage in sports or families in search of a beach that can keep the kids entertained.
The beach is named after the local tradition of midnight picnics that were held in the early 1900s, and it continues to be a popular spot for gatherings, especially around the fire pits that dot the beach. These are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are a perfect way to end a day at the beach.
Swimming and surfing are popular activities at Moonlight State Beach, with designated areas for each to ensure safety. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards year-round, providing an extra layer of security for families and less experienced swimmers.
The beach’s concession stand offers food and drink, while restrooms and showers are conveniently located for those looking to rinse off after a day in the sand and surf. There is also a rental shop where visitors can hire surfboards, boogie boards, and other beach equipment.
Parking is available in a dedicated lot as well as on nearby streets, but it can fill up quickly during the summer months, so early arrival is recommended.
Moonlight State Beach also boasts a large grassy area where visitors can spread out picnic blankets and enjoy a meal with a view of the ocean. This area is a bit removed from the sand, offering a quieter space for those looking to relax.
Torrey Pines State Beach
Torrey Pines State Beach is a stunning stretch of coastline located just south of the town of Del Mar in San Diego. Known for its rugged cliffs, unspoiled beaches, and the rare Torrey pine trees, this beach offers a more natural and secluded experience than other San Diego beaches.
The beach is backed by the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, which is home to miles of walking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. These trails range from easy to challenging, providing opportunities for both leisurely walks and vigorous hikes.
Surfing, swimming, and fishing are popular activities at Torrey Pines State Beach. The surf here can accommodate all levels, from beginners to experienced surfers, with areas that offer gentle waves as well as more challenging breaks.
The beach’s northern portion is favored by glider enthusiasts, where the Torrey Pines Gliderport is located. This area is known for paragliding and hang gliding, offering an adrenaline rush for participants and an intriguing spectacle for beachgoers.
Parking is available along the beachfront road or in the reserve’s paid parking lots. If you are traveling to San Diego by plane, you can easily rent a car at San Diego Airport to be able to go to beaches further from the city. While there are restrooms and showers available, amenities are more sparse than at urban beaches, encouraging a more back-to-nature type of visit.
Visitors should be aware that the beach is subject to high tides that can cover a large portion of the sand, so checking tide charts before visiting is advisable.
Del Mar Dog Beach
Del Mar Dog Beach, officially known as North Beach, is a slice of paradise for dogs and their owners. Located in the northern part of the coastal city of Del Mar, this beach is widely recognized for being one of the most dog-friendly beaches in San Diego.
The beach is a hub of activity where dogs are allowed to roam off-leash during the off-season, from after Labor Day through June 15th. During the summer months, from June 16th through Labor Day, dogs must be on a leash, but they are still welcome to enjoy the sand and surf alongside their human companions.
North Beach extends from 29th Street to the Solana Beach border. It’s a social spot where pet owners can meet and enjoy the company of fellow dog lovers while their pets get plenty of exercise.
The beach is not just for dogs; it’s also a great place for surfing, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The northern end of the beach, near the bluffs, is particularly popular with surfers looking for a less crowded wave.
Facilities at Del Mar Dog Beach include restrooms and showers to rinse off sandy paws and feet. There’s also a small park with benches and tables, perfect for a post-playtime rest or a picnic.
Parking can be found along the nearby streets or in the paid parking lot at the main beach area, which is a short walk away. During peak times, finding a parking spot can be challenging, so arriving early or visiting during off-peak hours is advisable.
Visitors should be mindful of the beach’s clean-up rules. There are waste bags and disposal bins provided, ensuring that the beach remains clean for everyone to enjoy.
Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach, often referred to as OB by locals, is a laid-back beach community in San Diego known for its vintage vibes and bohemian spirit. This beach is a stretch of coastline that caters to a diverse crowd, from surfers and sunbathers to families and dog owners.
The main attraction of Ocean Beach is its wide sandy shore, which is perfect for beach games, sunbathing, and bonfires. The beach is also home to one of the longest piers in Southern California, the Ocean Beach Pier, which is a great spot for fishing or simply taking a stroll to enjoy the panoramic ocean views.
Surfing is a popular pastime here, with waves that accommodate both novice and experienced surfers. The Ocean Beach surf scene is vibrant, with many surf shops offering rentals and lessons to those looking to ride the waves.
For dog owners, the northern end of the beach, known as Dog Beach, is an off-leash paradise where dogs can run and play freely. It’s one of the first official leash-free beaches in the United States and remains a model for other dog-friendly beaches.
The community of Ocean Beach is known for its independent shops, antique stores, and farmers’ markets. The main commercial strip, Newport Avenue, is just a short walk from the sand and is lined with restaurants, bars, and boutiques.
Facilities at Ocean Beach include restrooms, showers, and lifeguard stations. There are also several picnic areas and barbecue grills for public use. Parking is available but can be limited, especially on weekends and during special events, so consider arriving early or using alternative transportation.
Ocean Beach also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the famous Ocean Beach Street Fair & Chili Cook-Off and the Ocean Beach Kite Festival.
Solana Beach
Solana Beach is a serene coastal town nestled along the northern coast of San Diego County. Known for its cliffside vistas and secluded coves, Solana Beach provides a tranquil escape from the more crowded beaches of San Diego.
The main beach area, Fletcher Cove, is a family-friendly spot with a park that overlooks the ocean, complete with playground equipment and picnic tables. The cove’s relatively calm waters make it a safe place for swimming, paddleboarding, and learning to surf.
Access to the beach is unique here; visitors descend to the shore via a charming pathway or use the public staircases that are carved into the cliffs. These access points offer stunning views of the Pacific and lead to the soft sands below.
Surfers frequent Solana Beach, drawn by the consistent waves and less crowded lineup. The area is also popular for tide pooling during low tide, where one can explore marine life in the rocky shallows.
The beach is backed by steep bluffs where the Coastal Rail Trail runs atop, offering a scenic route for walkers and cyclists. Along the trail and within the town itself, there are plenty of boutiques, art galleries, and eateries that reflect the local charm.
Facilities at Solana Beach include restrooms, showers, and free public parking lots, although space can be limited during peak times. Lifeguard services are provided, ensuring safety for all beachgoers.
The community is also known for the Belly Up Tavern. This music venue has hosted a variety of musical acts over the years, adding to the cultural experience of the area.
Imperial Beach
Imperial Beach is located at the southernmost end of the San Diego coastline and is one of the county’s less crowded beach destinations. It’s known for its wide, open sandy beaches and the Imperial Beach Pier, which extends into the Pacific, offering stunning views and fishing opportunities.
This beach is a haven for nature lovers, as it is situated close to the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve, an area rich in birdlife and a variety of habitats. Birdwatchers and nature photographers find this area particularly appealing for the diversity of species it attracts.
Surfing is a popular activity at Imperial Beach, with the annual Imperial Beach Surf Dog Competition being a highlight event where dogs and their owners showcase their surfing skills. The waves here are suitable for all levels, and there are surf shops nearby that offer gear rentals and lessons.
The beachfront is lined with parks and playgrounds, making it a family-friendly location. The Dunes Park near the pier has a playground, picnic areas, and volleyball courts, providing plenty of recreational options for visitors.
Imperial Beach also hosts the U.S. Open Sandcastle Competition, which draws crowds to watch teams build elaborate sand sculptures. This event is a testament to the community’s creative spirit and the quality of the beach’s sand.
Facilities at Imperial Beach include restrooms, showers, and a lifeguard presence during peak times. There is also a free public parking lot, but it can fill up quickly on busy days, so arriving early is recommended.
The beach area is undergoing revitalization, with new restaurants and cafes opening up, offering beachgoers a variety of dining options.
San Elijo State Beach
San Elijo State Beach is a picturesque coastal area located in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, just north of San Diego. This beach is well-loved for its extended camping facilities that allow visitors to wake up to the sound of the waves. It’s a perfect spot for those looking to combine a beach visit with the joys of camping.
The beach stretches along a narrow strip of coastline, offering a mix of sandy areas and rocky reefs. This variety makes it an excellent place for different kinds of beach activities, from sunbathing and swimming to exploring tide pools teeming with marine life.
Surfers are drawn to San Elijo for its consistent waves, which are suitable for both longboarding and shortboarding. The lineup is less crowded than at some of the more well-known surf spots, providing a more relaxed surfing experience.
For families, the beach is equipped with picnic tables and barbecue grills, making it an ideal location for a day out. The campgrounds above the beach offer amenities like showers, restrooms, and a camp store for convenience.
The campgrounds at San Elijo State Beach are a major draw, with sites that accommodate tents, trailers, and motorhomes. Many of these sites offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, and advanced reservations are highly recommended, especially during the summer and holiday weekends.
Adjacent to the beach is the small town of Cardiff-by-the-Sea, where visitors can find charming cafes, shops, and restaurants. The town adds to the beach’s appeal, providing easy access to additional dining and shopping options.
Parking is available along the Pacific Coast Highway and in the state beach parking lot, though there is a fee for lot parking. Given its popularity, especially during peak camping season, securing a parking spot early in the day is advisable.
San Diego Beaches FAQ
Does San Diego have white-sand beaches?
Yes, San Diego has several beaches with white sand, including Coronado Beach, which is known for its sparkling, mica-infused white sands.
Where is the clearest water in San Diego?
The clearest water in San Diego can typically be found at La Jolla Cove. The Cove is part of a protected marine reserve, which helps to keep the waters pristine and full of marine life, offering excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving.
Is San Diego a coastal city?
Yes, San Diego is a coastal city. It is located in the southern part of California, near the United States-Mexico border, and it is situated on the coast of the Pacific Ocean.
San Diego’s coastal location gives it a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a popular destination for beachgoers and tourists.
The city has a long coastline with many beautiful beaches, including popular spots like La Jolla, Mission Beach, and Coronado Beach.
Are San Diego beaches warm?
San Diego beaches have a moderate temperature year-round due to the city’s Mediterranean climate. The water can be considered warmest during the late summer months, typically August and September, when temperatures can range from the high 60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 20-24°C). However, compared to tropical destinations, some might find the water on the cooler side, especially outside of the peak summer months.
What month is best for beach San Diego?
The best months for visiting beaches in San Diego County are typically from July to October. During this period, the weather is warmest, and the ocean temperatures are more comfortable for swimming. September is often considered ideal, as the summer crowds have diminished and the water remains warm.
Where is San Diego located?
San Diego is located in the southwestern corner of California, in the United States. It is situated on the coast of the Pacific Ocean, immediately adjacent to the Mexican border and about 120 miles (193 kilometers) south of Los Angeles.
SAN DIEGO MAP
Does Coronado Beach get crowded?
Coronado Beach, located in Coronado, California, is a popular destination and can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons, holidays, and weekends. The beach’s beautiful sandy shores and proximity to the San Diego area make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
The level of crowding can vary throughout the year, with summer months generally being the busiest.
If you want to avoid large crowds, consider visiting Coronado Beach during weekdays or during the off-season (fall and winter) when there are fewer tourists. Additionally, arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can also help you find a quieter time to enjoy the beach.
Keep in mind that even during busy times, the size of the beach often allows for ample space, so you can still find a spot to relax and enjoy the ocean.
Where can I get a rental car in San Diego?
In San Diego, rental cars can be obtained at several locations:
- San Diego International Airport (SAN): This is the most common place for travelers to rent a car. The Rental Car Center at the airport houses many rental car agencies and offers a variety of vehicle options.
- Downtown San Diego: There are numerous rental car agencies located downtown, which can be convenient if you’re staying in the city center.
- Hotel and Resort Rentals: Some hotels and resorts offer rental car services on-site or can arrange a rental for you through local providers.
- Online and Mobile App Bookings: You can also book a rental car through various online travel agencies or directly through rental car company websites and apps.
It’s advisable to compare rates and book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best deal and ensure availability.
Final Thoughts: Are San Diego Beaches Worth Visiting?
Going to a beach is one of the things that you just must do when visiting San Diego. With majestic views of the Pacific Ocean, white sand, and welcoming waves, there are so many great beaches to choose from.
The closest beaches to Downtown San Diego that are must-visit are Coronado Beach, Mission Beach, and Ocean Beach.
Visit Pacific Beach if you are looking for the best nightlife.
If you are renting a car, you can venture out to Imperial Beach, really close to the border with Mexico.
For the best marine life experiences, go to La Jolla Cove.
