Top 12 beaches in San Diego
San Diego, a coastal city in California, is renowned for its stunning "beaches." With a coastline stretching over 70 miles, San Diego boasts an array of beautiful "beaches" that cater to all tastes. From the family-friendly La Jolla Cove to the surfer's paradise of Mission Beach, the "beaches in San Diego" offer something for everyone. Each beach has its unique charm and character, making them a must-visit for any traveler. In summary, San Diego is home to diverse and picturesque "beaches," offering visitors a range of experiences, from sunbathing and swimming to surfing and snorkeling. These "beaches in San Diego" are an essential part of the city's appeal and identity.
1. South Mission Beach, San Diego
Only beach in San Diego with a permanent wooden boardwalk

Belmont Park is a popular destination that features the Giant Dipper roller coaster, an exciting traditional wood coaster. The park also has a boardwalk that runs alongside the beach, offering beautiful views of the ocean on one side and houses and rentals on the other. It's a great place to spend the day with kids, as there are showers and bathrooms available, and the water is clean and blue with lifeguards on duty. Visitors can enjoy a day in the sun with free beach access, and there is ample free parking nearby.
The Giant Dipper roller coaster is a must-ride, providing a thrilling experience with its old-school wooden structure. The boardwalk is perfect for a leisurely stroll, taking in the sights and sounds of the beach while being close to various vendors. With free access to the beach and free parking, visitors can easily make a day of it, soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean breeze. The clean and well-maintained beach, with its clear blue water, is an inviting space for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles, making it an ideal spot for a fun-filled family outing.
2. Ocean Beach City Beach

3. Mission Beach Park
Home to the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster

Mission Beach in San Diego is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the quintessential Californian lifestyle. The beach spans nearly two miles and is surrounded by a lively boardwalk filled with shops, bars, and restaurants. During your visit, you can enjoy various activities such as cycling, rollerblading, sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. For even more excitement, check out Belmont Park, an amusement park located right on the beach.
Mission Beach offers a wide range of attractions and amenities for visitors. The beach is well-maintained and has comprehensive facilities, including restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. Within a convenient 10-20 minute walk, you'll find a variety of accommodation options, dining choices, and other activities. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach getaway or a fun-filled vacation, Mission Beach has something for everyone.
4. Windansea Beach
Whale watching during migration season

Windansea Beach, located in California, is famous for its scenic views and sandstone points. The beach is particularly known for its impressive surfing conditions, featuring large waves that draw in experienced surfers. However, the appearance of the beach can vary greatly between summer and winter due to the changing tides.
Despite its beauty, Windansea Beach is not the best spot for swimming. The beach is prone to strong currents that can make it dangerous for swimmers. However, it remains a popular destination for surfers and sunset-watchers, who come to enjoy the stunning sunsets that can be seen from the beach. Overall, Windansea Beach is a place of natural beauty, with conditions that cater to experienced surfers but may not be ideal for casual swimmers.
5. Law Street Beach
Access to nearby restaurants and shops

The North Pacific Beach area, particularly around Law Street, is a standout beach location in San Diego. This spot offers a more tranquil alternative to the bustling Pacific Beach, while still providing easy access to its amenities. Law Street Beach is a popular destination for various activities, including surfing, sunbathing, and jogging. The beach's wide expanse and reliable waves make it an ideal location for both experienced surfers and those looking to relax in the sun.
Visitors to Law Street Beach can enjoy the area's soft sand and picturesque views. The beach's location near the Pacific Beach boardwalk means that there are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, making it a convenient spot for a day out. Whether you're looking to catch some waves or simply soak up the sun, Law Street Beach in San Diego is an excellent choice.
6. La Jolla Shores Beach
Underwater marine life viewing

La Jolla Shores Hotel is a highly regarded accommodation located along a beautiful beachfront, known for its stunning views and direct access to the beach. One of the main attractions of this area is La Jolla Shores Beach, which offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors. Whether you're looking to unwind on the sandy beach, try your hand at watersports, or simply enjoy the soothing sight of waves lapping against the shore, this beach has something for everyone.
At La Jolla Shores Beach, visitors can bask in the sun and relax on the soft sand, or take part in activities such as swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding. The beach's calm and gentle waters make it an ideal spot for both novice and experienced water sports enthusiasts. Additionally, the beach provides a front-row seat to the natural beauty of the Pacific Ocean, with stunning views and opportunities to spot marine life. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, La Jolla Shores Beach is a must-visit destination in La Jolla Shores Hotel.
7. Tourmaline Beach
Whale watching during migration

Tourmaline Beach, located in San Diego, is a serene and less crowded alternative to other coastal attractions in the area. Its peaceful environment makes it an ideal location for a relaxing day by the ocean. The beach is not only a great spot for beachgoers but also a favorite among surfers.
Tourmaline Beach is known for its excellent waves, particularly suitable for longboarding. In addition to its surfing credentials, the beach is commendable for its cleanliness and maintenance. The combination of perfect waves and a well-kept beach makes it a must-visit destination for both surfers and beach lovers.
8. Boomer Beach
Whale watching during migration season

Boomer Beach is one of the smallest and lesser-known beaches in La Jolla, located just south of La Jolla Cove and tucked away along the boardwalk next to Ellen Browning Scripps Park. It is a popular spot for bodysurfers due to its powerful surf, and it is less crowded than other beaches since surfers and boogie boarders are prohibited.
For families visiting La Jolla, San Diego, Shell Beach and Boomer Beach are must-visit destinations. Situated next to each other along the boardwalk, these beaches offer unique attractions that make them stand out. While Boomer Beach is known for its bodysurfing, Shell Beach is famous for its tide pools, where visitors can explore marine life in a natural habitat. Both beaches provide a unique experience that will make your family vacation memorable.
9. Breakers Beach
Natural sea life at the La Jolla Underwater Park

Breakers Beach is a private military beach located on Coronado Island, accessible only to military personnel and their families. It offers restricted access, creating a serene and peaceful environment that is rare to find on other area beaches, often crowded during peak times. One of the cleanest beaches in the region, Breakers Beach is maintained by the military, ensuring a pleasant experience for all visitors.
The beach is situated in front of the North Island Navy Lodge on Coronado Island. To enter Naval Air Station North Island, take Ocean Boulevard's northern end and pass through Sunset Park. Breakers Beach's exclusivity and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal destination for military families looking for a secluded coastal retreat, free from the large crowds and mess found on other area beaches.
10. Kellogg Beach
Accessible only through stairs

Pt. Loma is home to a small, hidden sandy beach strip with magnificent views and various activities. To access this beach, head south on Rosecrans Street and turn left on Lawrence Street or Kellogg Street. Both streets lead to San Antonio and provide access to this hidden gem, where a Great Blue Heron can often be spotted in the early morning. The beach attracts walkers, dogs, and children playing in the sand and water during the day, especially on sunny days.
This little beach is a hidden gem tucked away in Pt. Loma, accessible only if one knows where to look. The beach features a hard-packed dirt walking path along the shoreline, bordered by a marina, boat slips, and picturesque homes with well-manicured landscaping. As you walk along the path, you may encounter a few joggers and dog walkers, but the area remains mostly serene and quiet. After walking through the neighborhood for about three blocks, the beach connects again, providing a beautiful and relaxing walk for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
11. Grace Beach

12. Mission Point Beach
