San Diego beaches are stunning and offer such a variety of options that anyone can find their perfect fit. California has so many things to do, including at a local beach. From La Jolla to Sunset Cliffs to Coronado, there is something for everyone. Kids can play, the sunset pictures are amazing, and there is so much fun to be had at every destination.
What Makes For A Great Experience At San Diego Beaches?
1. Parking & Accessibility at San Diego Beaches
Probably the number one deterrent when heading for any of our local beaches is parking availability, cost and proximity to the beach itself. This is super important particularly for families who can neither haul kids and gear very far without meltdowns. Solution? If you can, drop off the beach toys, the little ones and mom or dad than hunt for a spot. Do the reverse when you leave since everyone tends be cranky and worn out.
2. What To Bring
Whether you’re an avid surfer or just a sun worshipper, what you pack can make or break your day.
- The Basics: sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, towel, flip flops and water
- Families: bring along all of the above but include snacks like grapes or cheese sticks, and an umbrella. Kids skin cannot take a full day of exposure so they’ll need frequent breaks under that umbrella.
- Teens & Young Adults: do the basics but just don’t forget to use that sunscreen and stay hydrated! Don’t lose track of your keys or phone. That is a sure-fire way to ruin a great day!
3. Types of San Diego Beaches For a Day Trip
Now, not all beaches are created equal so choose carefully. Depending on your experience or the ages in your group, some destinations may be troublesome with young children or just too tempting for adventurous teens. San Diego is no exception!
Reef Breaks | These are NOT for beginners. These are not for swimmers or first time surfers. Not only will the locals give you a hard time for being in over your head but you could actually hurt yourself.
Tides | Be aware of the tides and currents of any beach in which you plan to go in the water. They can dramatically change throughout the day. If the current is dragging everyone south a little every few minutes, your frolicking kiddo could disappear from in front of you and end up a quarter mile south within minutes.
Tide Pools | The tide pools are tricky to navigate even for the experienced. The stones are slippery and wet so wear decent shoes. Additionally, the tides can sneak up on you. You have to be aware of how far away your exit is. Also, know whether the crashing waves are coming closer and bigger or moving away. No one wants to get swept away or have to be rescued because you got stranded or unexpectedly knocked over.
What Safety Information Should You Know Before Hitting the Sand At San Diego Beaches?
Rip Currents at the Beaches: What Are They and What To Do
So, if you live at the beach or are a frequent visitor, you likely know how to spot a rip current, how to avoid it, and how to deal with it if caught in one. We did focus this section primarily for visitors not familiar with these tricky but scary natural occurrences.
According to the US Lifesaving association, 85% of rescues on US West Coach beaches were due to rip currents. Why? Typically swimmers will panic. First that is the biggest no-no. Secondly, swimmers tend to do the natural thing (swim directly to shore) which happens to be what you should never do!
Spotting A Rip Current
To be clear, the simplest way to learn to spot a rip current is to see it with your own eyes. Seeing it for yourself on YouTube may be the single best way to hone that skill. This particular YouTube video was the most straightforward I found thus far. It is linked below.
That being said, keep a lookout for a break in the incoming wave pattern, churning water or a change in the color of the water.
I’ve linked to this brochure here as it is an all-inclusive resource.
How Do You Know if You’re in a Rip Current & How Do You Escape It
If you find yourself swimming to shore but not making any progress or even slipping further out, you may be caught in a rip current. The first thing to do is not panic! Second, swim directly along the shore NOT against it. Eventually, the strong current will weaken its grip and you’ll be able to swim ashore.
The most extensive and informative video we found is only ten minutes and widely available on YouTube. This is the link for it: Rip Currents: How to Survive the Deadliest Ocean’s Trick
Oceanside, California
Our first stop is a start in the north county in Oceanside, California which has something to offer for everyone!
Photos of Oceanside by Savvy Cali Girl
One of the San Diego Best Beaches For Family, Oceanside Offers More Than Just Swimming in the Waves
Oceanside is a mix of beaches, a pier and a harbor with a marina. Near the pier is a concrete boardwalk where you can find people walking, riding bikes or scooters and rollerskating. It is located in the far north of San Diego but has some of the most expansive San Diego beaches.
We saw a variety of activities on the water launching in the marina. Enjoy a day on a kayak, the stand up paddle board (SUP) or load in jet skis and boats. Across from the harbor is a pristine beach with a jetty, fire pits and a few covered patio tables. I’d definitely choose this particular beach if you have paddle boards and those that want to splash the waves.
There is a ton of eateries all around the downtown area near the pier and also around the harbor.
Please note that areas may be far busier certain times of the year and photos were taking during the summer of 2020 when there was extra signage and restrictions because of the Corona virus.
For more information about the area check out the Oceanside Conference and Visitors Bureau. It’s an excellent resource for visitors and staycationers alike!
Encinitas, California
Encinitas Photo by Savvy Cali Girl
San Diego Beaches With a View
Encinitas, California is a pocket community along Highway 101. Encinitas and particularly Moonlight Beach are a top pick of the many San Diego beaches.
The town gives a nod to its hippie and surf culture past with surf shops, quirky boutiques, and fun spots to grab a bite. Having spent many staycations in the area, we have enjoyed the area year round. Even in the winter, there are plenty of things to do.
The views are truly what bring folks into this small city in Southern California however. They are simply stunning. It’s like having a bird’s eye view of the beaches below. At sunset, it is a romantic spot to propose, have a quiet moment by yourself or just sit and chat with the kids. It’s the perfect timeout from everything!
Be aware that most beaches in Encinitas are situated at the bottom of bluffs which require stairs in many locations. That may make it a little more challenging with younger children and all the required stuff to tow along.
Parking is generally free but a little hard to come by during peak seasons and especially on the weekends.
Encinitas Beaches: Moonlight Beach & Swami’s State Beach
Not having a drone, the photo above from Steve Iverson showed off the area and that sweet little area we lovingly call Moonlight Beach. It is the main beach here and a safe swim spot.
It is incredibly popular so there is plenty of lifeguard supervision. There is both paid and free parking but not easy either way on sunny days. Volleyball is popular too so keep a lookout for flying objects!
Swami’s is the true surfer’s destination just a little south. This is place to gawk at surfers catching the waves. The vantage points are spectacular but bring a long lens if you plan on grabbing a photo or two. You can probably guess why it’s called Swami’s. The Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens and Hermitage is located here.
Swami’s State Beach Photo by Savvy Cali Girl
La Jolla Shores, California
Photos of La Jolla by Savvy Cali Girl
Our number One Pick for Fun San Diego Beaches: La Jolla Shores
The Shores is the stereotypical sandy beach we all drawn to when we dream of a perfect vacation. It has a long shore with an easy beach break that surfers, divers, and even the most novice swimmers can enjoy.
This aerial view above gives you the scope of the beauty of La Jolla Shores.
Savvy Cali Girl Photo of the Windansea Stairs
Windansea: One of those Beaches that is a Photographer’s Dream
just a short drive south, still within La Jolla is Windansea. It’s a little more secluded, nestled within a quiet neighborhood with windy roads.
There are tide pools, reef breaks for surfers and plenty of nooks and crannies to explore among the cliffs. You’ll also find the “shack” which is one of those most photographed spots peppering social feeds.
On our days through, the lighting wasn’t great. One of our favorite photographers, Julie Gayle captured the feel of this spot perfectly! She is featured regularly on the local news and you’ll love her Instagram feed! @juliegayle24
La Jolla the Jewel of San Diego’s Coastline
Click the link above for an overview of the town of La Jolla. Seven miles of towering bluffs, long stretches of sandy beach, reef breaks for surfers, tide pools and ocean snorkeling for nature explorers. Even a glider port for those seeking a thrill!
Pacific Beach and Mission Beach
“PB” Pacific Beach
It is differentiated from the southern area by Crystal Pier. It is a classic wooden pier, with lodging in and around the immediate area. This northern part of Pacific Beach is a little more family friendly as well.
Parking is quite an undertaking so bring your patience. For family outings, dad dropped off the family and the stuff, cruising the streets for a spot. I was terrible at parallel parking! We always had a cold drink and snack for dad once he arrived as a thank you however.
Now, as you may realize if you hang out in Pacific or Mission Beach, it really is a mecca for the young. During the day, it can be quite a party in either PB or Mission. At night, it absolutely turns up the volume. The nightlife here, simply put, is off the hook. You’ll need to keep this mind if you plan to book a hotel. Be ready for the noise to roll into the wee hours!
Mission Beach
The southern end of this stretch of beach is Mission Beach. Its main draw is Belmont Park with shops, food, and a real functioning wooden roller coaster. The Wavehouse is also a fun spot to grab a bite and surf an artificial wave. Beware, you’ll have a wait and a ton of onlookers so bring your sense of humor!
South mission is also home to a ton of beach volleyball courts on the beach. You can watch or play but you’ll have to get there early if you want your net and game. This is also a great area to lounge since there is more sand to throw down a towel. In the evenings, the fire pits are a big draw for those summer bonfires.
Ocean Beach, California
One of Those Fun San Diego Beaches You Can’t Forget
Ocean Beach is one of those beaches that you have to really want to go to! Why? It’s small, situated out of the way of the big beaches to the north. It’s not exactly off a main freeway exit like some of the other San Diego hot spots. The pier and food here are truly the main attraction, perhaps even some of the locals who tend to be artists and quirky.
Parking is like any other area, where you just have to cruise around to find a spot. There are parking lots but during busy times, it can be a challenge. The pier here is a T-shaped concrete pier that is regularly seen on the news during big storms and swells. It’s a spectacular show when waves crash over the sides! There is a dog beach nearby and the surfing is excellent. Don’t worry, there are lifeguards and restrooms here like most San Diego beaches.
Hanging out at the beach in Ocean Beach can be fun and interesting as there are performers, entertainers and artists throughout the area.
Home of Hodad’s & OB Noodle House
If you love having a good time when you eat, you’re in the right place! It’s just a short walk to everything from the San Diego beaches in OB.
Hodad’s is a longstanding San Diego restaurant with massive, tasty burgers. Bring an appetite! OB Noodle House is another spot making it onto Triple D. From Pho to spicy garlic wings or Korean beef shorts ribs, this asian fusion is a treat for the senses!
Sunset Cliffs Just South of “OB”
Savvy Cali Girl Photo of Sunset Cliffs
There is a particular area that draws young people with a sense of adventure. It is a spot that everyone loves to jump but beware! It is actually not allowed. There is an extreme danger of drowning and difficulty getting out if you successfully make the jump into the water.
Coronado, California
Topping the Best Beaches Lists Year After Year
Coronado Beach is one of those beaches that make the top lists repeatedly, not only the US but globally. It is a long strip of sandy beach that is renowned for its sparkle, a result of minerals in its sand.
In the South lies the iconic Hotel Del and a special surf spot locals call Shipwrecks. It gets its name because of a boat still visible on super low tides. North Beach is a leash-less dog area where the pups can play in the water and run to their heart’s content.
Sandwiched in the middle is the iconic sandy beach vacation experience. It’s easy to splash in the waves, paddle out or just tan the day away.
There are lifeguards aplenty as are restrooms. Park for free along Ocean Blvd but expect a crowd so be patient!
Coronado Photos by Savvy Cali Girl
The Southernmost City in California: Imperial Beach
Many businesses lie along a short stretch of road running along the shore, Seacoast Drive. Mike Hess Brewing, Brigantine, Coronado Brewery, Babycakes, the IB Forum, Seaside Candy, and more are positioned all along Seacoast Drive.
Fair warning, being so near Mexico is problematic only because the water quality is regularly affected. Just check for posted signs before heading into the waves.
Imperial Beach Photos by Savvy Cali Girl
San Diego Series: More California Towns To Explore
There is far more to explore along San Diego’s coastline. There are marvelous little neighborhoods up and down the coast worth exploring. In addition, there are areas all across San Diego.
I’ve never been to San Diego, but would love to go some day! It looks so beautiful and I heard there are a lot of fun things to do.
Oh my gosh, yes. There are so many that we weren’t even able to add them all!
This post makes me wish I lived near a beach. Time to add San Diego to my travel bucket list!
It’s a blessing for sure!
Beautiful San Diego beaches article here! I’ve lived in San Diego more than 25 years, and only went into the water a couple of times. Its just too cold for me. I love your photos! Very informative and detail tips!
Chilly water and at least in the summer it’s better for everyone. Spring wetsuits come in handy if you’re swimming but personally just like to paddle board more often than not. I don’t have to get too wet (usually). Walks and sunsets are my jam honestly!
oh would love to go on a beach hop on San Diego! How gorgeous! Great Post-love all the pics!!
A blessing for us to be sure. Thank you for taking a moment to comment today!!
Love this one! I grew up out there, but have not been back since I was 10. I am dying to go! This is really great info, and beautiful pictures!!!
Have lived throughout this lovely planet but this has always been home, family ties. I have been working on taking better pictures so thank you so much.
I have read so many articles about the blogger lovers but this piece of writing is genuinely a good post, keep it up.
I love, love, love San Diego….huge fan of La Jolla and Coronado Island…need to return to check out more of these beautiful beaches.
Love having mini vacation moments when we take a drive or bike ride in our local beach neighborhood. Blessed to be sure!
There are such a variety of beaches around San Diego. I will remember this guide if we go to Southern California. I love the old style piers like your photo for Ocean Beach.
Each pier is different here. From concrete to wood, T-shape and straight. Some have had to be rebuilt over the years (with different shapes sometimes) due to storm damage.
What a great post introducing San Diego’s beaches! Makes me miss the sunshine and the water 🙂
Thank you for checking out our post! We have plenty of sunshine and the water. The water will be a little chilly for just a bit longer (cold current) but by late July should be great! Food is awesome year round!