Pacific Beach

Enjoy a range of outdoor activities at Pacific Beach, such as sunbathing, swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, beach volleyball, bicycling, and skateboarding. The beach is wide and flat, while the boardwalk stretches for 3.2 miles (5.1 kilometers). Refuel or grab a drink at one of the many cafes, restaurants, and bars, or shop for souvenirs or gifts at a boutique shop, along the boardwalk or nearby. It’s easy to visit Pacific Beach independently. Or join a beach sightseeing tour or a coastal bike tour to see other area highlights, such as La Jolla Cove, Ocean Beach, and Sunset Cliffs Natural Park.

• Bring plenty of sun protection if you plan to spend the day outside.
• Lifeguards are on duty year-round. Find the main lifeguard tower at the end of Grand Avenue.
• Bathrooms and shower facilities are located around the pier at the end of Garnet Avenue and around the main lifeguard tower.
• Alcohol is prohibited on the beach and boardwalk.

Pacific Beach is located north of Mission Beach, From Interstate 5, take Garnet Avenue west to Mission Blvd. Free parking is available on the street and at the lot on Tourmaline Street. There are also paid lots around the area. Local bus no. 8 and 9 connect Pacific Beach to Old Town, and bus no. 30 runs along Grand Avenue.

Mornings and sunsets are great times to enjoy a walk or run along the beach. Parking is limited, so arrive early in the day to score a spot. Weekends and holidays can be particularly busy. Enjoy a sunset from the beach, then stay to experience the vibrant nightlife scene.

Just south of Pacific Beach is Belmont Park. A National Historic Landmark, Belmont Park has a history dating back more than 100 years. A popular beachfront amusement park, it features numerous rides, including the historic Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster, as well as arcade games, mini golf, and a variety of food options.

If you like a lively party scene, then Pacific Beach is definitely worth visiting. There are plenty of bars in the area, plus a long stretch of sand which is great for surfing and bodyboarding. There’s also the fun boardwalk and plenty of shopping in the area.

Yes, you can swim at Pacific Beach. It’s great for catching some waves on surf or body boards, or just splashing around. Always make sure to shuffle your feet on the sand, though, since stingrays are present in San Diego’s oceans, but shuffling usually scares them off.

Yes, Pacific Beach is known for being crowded, especially in the summer months when the weather gets hotter. A lot of college and high-school kids come to the beach, plus the surfers, too. Pacific Beach is also a good place for families since there are all kinds of activities and shops.

It depends what vibe you’re looking for. If you want to mingle with like-minded party people, then hit Pacific Beach on the weekend or in the summer months. If you’d rather avoid the big crowds, then opt for weekdays outside of the summer months, which should have fewer beachgoers.

Yes, you can park at Pacific Beach, but you might be searching for a parking spot for a while during the busy summer months. Plus, there are paid lots, which don’t leave a lot of wiggle room. If you stay patient, you’ll inevitably find a spot within walking distance.

No, you cannot drink alcohol on Pacific Beach, or any beach in San Diego. If you’re caught, you’ll receive a hefty fine. Further offenses have heftier penalties. Stick to soft drinks and water on the beach, and if you need a drink, head to one of the numerous bars.