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There are many beautiful San Diego beaches, so which do you want to visit? I have compiled a list of the very best beaches in San Diego to help you decide just that.
I have picked these beaches based on a combination of aesthetic beauty, and atmosphere, but no two of these beaches is the same.
So here are the best San Diego Beaches, from north to south:
Blacks Beach
At the bottom of dramatic sandstone cliffs on the north side of La Jolla, Black's Beach is only accessible by a rather difficult, winding trail. But it is worth the walk, with its miles of secluded, sandy beaches. Long known for its nudist patrons, Blacks Beach is also great for anyone who really wants to get away from it all. The cliffs and gorgeous view make for very relaxing atmosphere. If you can stand the hike, the payoff is worth it.
La Jolla Shores
South of Blacks Beach, near the La Jolla Pier, is the long, often quiet, and always spectacular La Jolla Shores. Lots of open sand here, and a great view of La Jolla Village, which sits on an elevated point to the south. It's in a quiet, very upscale residential area. The waves are the smallest in San Diego, so it's good for younger kids - though watch out for rip currents, which can be deceptively strong even in calm waters. Swim near the lifeguard to be on the safe side.
La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove is a small but simply gorgeous beach just steps from the great shops and restaurants of La Jolla Village. There is a lifeguard on duty much of the year, and the snorkeling (and scuba diving) is great here too. Several nearby coves have been taken over by harbor seals, which, while they are a pain for locals, are great fun to watch.
Pacific Beach
In many ways a northern extension of Mission Beach (see below), Pacific Beach is long, wide, sandy, and often quite busy - though it's big enough that you can almost always find plenty of room if you just walk a bit. Near many restaurants, bars, and stores as well as residential buildings, the parking here can be difficult. But it's a fun place for teens and young adults especially.
Mission Beach
Maybe the most famous of all San Diego beaches, Mission Beach is the quintessential California beach town, complete with pier, boardwalk, roller coaster, and lots of people watching. It's busier than other San Diego beaches and parking is often tight, but it's fun, vibrant, and never dull. Great especially for teens and young adults. The area also has a lively nightlife.
Mission Bay Beaches
Located near Mission Beach, mission Bay is huge, with many inlets, parks, and coves. It has a tropical feel in may parts, and since the water has little current (and no waves), it is good for younger children - with one warning: the drop off here is much steeper than in the ocean. So use beaches with lifeguards present (they are easy to find), and keep an eye on your kids, especially if they are novice swimmers. Mission Bay is great for jet skiing and other water sports as well.
Point Loma
Point Loma is located at the end of a long, hilly peninsula. It's a great place to view the city - in fact, the very best views of downtown and the surrounding area can be found at the Cabrillo National Monument on the end of Point Loma. There is also a road that cuts down to the ocean from just before the monument. The coast here is rocky, rugged, and spectacular. Not good for swimming, but incredible for walking and tide pooling. It feels like you are a world away from civilization here, even though you are maybe 3 miles from downtown as a crow flies. It's one of my favorite spots in town.
So these are all my favorite beach areas in San Diego. They represent an incredible diversity, from isolated beauty to vibrant, crowded and fun.
San Diego beaches offer something for all ages and tastes. So what are you waiting for? Grab your towel and hit the sand!
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