San Diego is one of the best cities in America with its long-stretching coastlines and bounty of beautiful beaches.
The sand, surf, and sun are the three things that cross our minds when we think of beautiful San Diego. With everything from sandy spots to buzzing neighborhoods, San Diego remains an enviable destination to those who love beaches and travel.
It is also best for kids, and if you want to take your kids out for some summer fun, then it’s time to venture out to the many beaches that San Diego has to offer.
Some of these beaches are ideal for surfing, others are great for snorkeling, and the rest are perfect for kayaking and scuba diving.
Depending on what you love about the beach, we have come up with a list of 15 best beaches in San Diego that will spice up your visit.
1. Coronado Beach
For first-time tourists of San Diego, Coronado Beach is the best one to visit. It stands on the iconic white sandy beaches and is anchored by the Hotel de Coronado that also doubles as the best dining and accommodations in the area.
Victorian Hotel del Coronado in San Diego | Photo by meunierd via Shutterstock
Coronado Beach is San Diego’s finest, and the sparkly white sands adds a touch of lustre to the beach. The gentle sea waves and the expansive sandy beaches makes this the best place to spend an afternoon. Aside from that, it hosts a season of activities, such as fishing in front of Victorian hotel del Coronado to making s’mores around the campfire and kite flying around the southern end of the beach.
Coronado Beach
Coronado, CA 92118
Admission: Free
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• The Lion’s Share (4.7/5 stars, Eclectic, $$$)
• Il Fornaio Coronado (4.5/5 stars, Italian, $$)
• Cowboy Star (4.6/5 stars, Steak, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Coronado Beach in San Diego.
The best hotel to stay near Coronado Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• THE US GRANT, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego (8.7/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
2. La Jolla Shores
If you’re visiting San Diego with your family, then it’s best to venture to the shores of La Jolla. La Jolla Shores is a family beach that hosts a many tourists and locals each year.
Magnificent sunset on La Jolla | Photo by amadeustx via Shutterstock
It is best for surfing and scuba diving because of its easy to access the ocean. Fishing here, like many beaches, is not allowed on the shores. If you enjoy picnics, check out Kellogg Park— large grassy area to lay and plenty of space for kids to play. Like yoga? This beach is also a top spot for yoga lessons and is where most people in town come to practice.
La Jolla Shores
8300 Camino del Oro, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037
Admission: Free
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Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• The Marine Room (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Cusp Dining & Drinks (4.5/5 stars, Californian, $$)
• Shore Rider Bar (4.5/5 stars, Grill, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near La Jolla Shores in San Diego.
The best hotel to stay near La Jolla Shores based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa (8.6/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
3. Pacific Beach
Pacific Beach is a haven for family outings and long strolls. Located between La Jolla and Mission Beach, it’s one of the most popular beaches in San Diego that attracts large crowds.
Pacific Beach San Diego | Photo by Oxana Militsina via Shutterstock
There are shops available to buy or rent scuba-diving equipment along the boardwalk. Nearby there are trendy hotel bars and restaurants where you can stay for a weekend of fun and dining with your friends or family. If you’re in for a night out there are many great bars with tasty cocktails to grab a drink. The JRDN lounge and Raw Bar are the most popular among locals and tourists.
Pacific Beach
California, 92109
Admission: Free
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Pacific Fresh Grill (5/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• PB Poke House (4.9/5 stars, Hawaiian, $$)
• Sushi Ota (4.7/5 stars, Sushi, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Pacific Beach in San Diego.
The best hotel to stay near Pacific Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• TOWER23 Hotel (9.4/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
4. Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach is a top spot in San Diego that features a vintage atmosphere. It’s adjacent to a village and has an assortment of eateries and shops that have surf stickers.
Ocean Beach, San Diego | Photo by Brian Roberts via Flickr
It’s a great beach for spending time with your family and friends. It’s also a nice place for picnics and yoga sessions. On the beach, you’ll find a small grassy waterfront park that hosts yoga circles. There are also bikes for rent and fishing gear. You’ll enjoy riding your bike along the beach or fishing along the pier that extends to the sea.
Ocean Beach
Newport Ave, San Diego, CA 92107-3014
Admission: $3.00 to $23.00 per person
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• The Venetian Restaurant (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Point Loma Seafoods (4.6/5 stars, Seafood, $$)
• The Joint – Award Winning Sushi-Tapas-Craft Beer-Wine-Sake (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Ocean Beach in San Diego.
The best hotel to stay near Ocean Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Pearl Hotel (8.2/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
5. Imperial Beach
Situated a few miles from Mexico, Imperial Beach is a popular beach that once held the U.S Open Sand Castle Competition during the summer. It is in the southern part of California and has more than 300 bird species that makes it the best bird-watching site.
Pier and Pacific Ocean at sunset, in Imperial Beach | Photo by Jon Bilous via Shutterstock
At the beach, you can swim or surf. Also, it has numerous trails where you can hike during your stay. Inside the beach, there are numerous fishing sites, including a pier that also offers scenic views of Los Coronado Islands. So if you’re a surfer, you’ll enjoy your stay at this beach coupled with the fact that it’s a surfing hot spot.
Imperial Beach
Imperial Beach, CA 91932
Admission: Free
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Siam Imperial Thai Kitchen (4.7/5 stars, Thai, $$$)
• Seacoast Giant Pizza (4.6/5 stars, Pizza, $$)
• Cafe Di Roma (4.9/5 stars, Italian, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Imperial Beach in San Diego.
The best hotel to stay near Imperial Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• El Primero Boutique Hotel (8.9/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
6. Windansea Beach
For travelers who desire a quiet and calm beach, Windansea Beach is the best match. This beach offers solitude scenes, which makes it best for surfing.
Windansea Beach | Photo by Sebastien Burel via Shutterstock
In the song “The Pump House Gang” of 1968, singer Tom Wolfe explains the story of surfers who decided to make a home in Windansea area. Presently, Windansea Beach is better than ever with tide pools at low tide for non-surfers. Along the southern shore, there are a myriad of activities such as swimming. The southern side is the most popular, and both beginner and expert swimmers usually throng along the shores.
Windansea Beach
Windansea Beach, San Diego, CA 92037
Admission: Free
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Carino’s Restaurant (4.7/5 stars, Italian, $$$)
• Bernini’s Bistro (4.6/5 stars, Italian, $$)
• The Taco Stand (4.6/5 stars, Mexican, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Windansea Beach in San Diego.
The best hotel to stay near Windansea Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Pacific Terrace Hotel (/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
7. Mission Beach
Popular for its good facilities and beautiful ocean views, Mission Beach is one of the most crowded beaches in San Diego.
Mission Beach Lifeguard Stand | Photo by Thomas Galvez via Flicker
It is easily accessible from many locations, which makes it a top spot for spending an afternoon. There are also exquisite facilities such as restrooms, showers, fire pits, and plenty of lifeguards on duty. Nearby, Belmont Park offers a host of free public parking spaces. And if you need to sip on something cool to drink or eat some food, then the multiple bars and eateries near Ocean Walk will be your best bet.
Mission Beach
Mission Beach, San Diego, CA 92109
Admission: Free
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Amplified Ale Works Kitchen + Beer Garden (4.5/5 stars, Mediterranean, $$$)
• Arslan’s Gyros (4.6/5 stars, Gyro, $$)
• NoW sushi (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Mission Beach in San Diego.
The best hotel to stay near Mission Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport-Liberty Station (8.8/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
8. Silver Strand
Silver Strand is a great spot for swimming, boating, or water skiing. It has a myriad of beaches that meet with the Pacific Ocean and the San Diego Bay.
Silver Strand Beach | Photo by Niceley via Wikimedia Commons
If you enjoy surfing, kayaking, or playing beach volleyball then the Silver Strand is the best place to visit. In the streets, you’ll find numerous pedestrian walkways that connect to the beaches. It’s the ideal location for oceanfront RV camping and you’ll find numerous fire pits, barbecues, and picnic tables. Also, if you love bringing your dogs along, then I suggest you bring them to the public camping area and not the beach.
Silver Strand Beach
5000 CA-75, Coronado, CA 92118, United States
Admission: $8 per person
Ph: +1 619-435-5184
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• The Lion’s Share (4.7/5 stars, Eclectic, $$$)
• Cowboy Star (4.6/5 stars, Steak, $$)
• Artisan Noodle Tatsuki (4.6/5 stars, Ramen, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Silver Strand Beach in San Diego.
The best hotel to stay near Silver Strand Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• The El Cordova Hotel (9.1/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
9. Dog Beach
As the name suggests, Dog Beach in San Diego is a top spot for canine lovers. Here, you can bring your friendly puppy along for them to chase fellow puppies, run after balls, and even splash around on the beach all day.
Dog Beach | Photo by Jeff via Flickr
This is a dedicated spot for friendly sniffs, please do not bring along your ferocious dog. The location is along the mouth of the San Diego River at the ocean beach and is quite popular, with many visitors and locals alike who want to have a good time with their puppies.
Dog Beach
Dog Beach, San Diego, CA 92109
Admission: Free
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Chef JUN (4.9/5 stars, Sushi, $$$)
• Costa Brava (4.6/5 stars, Spanish, $$)
• Oltre Mare (4.7/5 stars, Italian, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Dog Beach in San Diego.
The best hotel to stay near Dog Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Pantai Inn (9.4/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
10. Solana Beach
Based in northern San Diego, Solana Beach is the best beach for surfing. Here, you’ll find five hotspots, each offering unique features.
Solana Beach | Photo by Sherry V Smith via Shutterstock
For example, the Del Mar shreds are popular amongst locals while the Seaside is common for tourists and features great surfing spots, complete with an outer reef. Tide Beach contains attractive white sands, while Fletcher Cove is popular for surfing. Seascape Beach is popular amongst locals and tourists alike who enjoy surfing. At Solana Beach, there is a myriad of showers, lifeguards, and restroom facilities, which makes it one of the best beaches to spend time at during the summer.
Solana Beach
Solana Beach, CA 92075
Admission: Free
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Alce 101 (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Pillbox Tavern (4.5/5 stars, Grill, $$)
• Bangkok Bay Thai Restaurant (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Solana Beach in San Diego.
The best hotel to stay near Solana Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, A Tribute Portfolio Resort & Spa (9/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
11. Cardiff-by-the-Sea
Cardiff-by-the-Sea is relatively small, but it is one of the most popular surf spots in San Diego. It features a 900-acre Elijo Lagoon and a beach that stretches two miles.
Cardiff by the Sea | Photo by DBSOCAL via Shutterstock
Here, the popular Cardiff Reef is a top surfing spot and you can catch a glance of surfers while driving along Highway 101. It’s also a popular camping site with more than 150 campsites at San Elijo Park. At the park, there are numerous picnic tables and fire rings, which makes it ideal for picnics and dates. Nearby, restaurant row prepares the best cuisines and if you feel the pangs of hunger, then head there for some delicious meals.
Cardiff by the Sea
Cardiff, CA 92007
Admission: Free
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Trattoria Positano (4.7/5 stars, Italian, $$$)
• Cicciotti’s Trattoria Italiana & Seafood (4.5/5 stars, Italian, $$)
• Plant Power Fast Food (4.6/5 stars, Vegan, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Cardiff by the Sea in San Diego.
The best hotel to stay near Cardiff by the Sea based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Surfhouse Boutique Hotel (8.6/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
12. San Elijo State Beach
If you’re into camping, then a visit to San Elijo State Beach is your ideal trip. The beach is a narrow stretch of sand that is perfect for spending the day with your family or friends.
San Elijo State Beach | Photo by Marcel Fuentes via Shutterstock
Its primary attraction is the more than 170 campsites that overlook the Pacific. You can book a campsite here even months in advance and spend your holiday or honeymoon on the beach. Nearby is a seasonal beach store that offers the beach essentials, such as boogie boards and s’mores fixings. It is the best, especially for group outings where you can enjoy the party and merriment with your friends.
San Elijo State Beach
San Elijo State Beach, CA 92007
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 760-753-5091
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Trattoria Positano (4.7/5 stars, Italian, $$$)
• Cicciotti’s Trattoria Italiana & Seafood (4.5/5 stars, Italian, $$)
• Best Pizza & Brew Cardiff By The Sea (4.5/5 stars, Pizza, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near San Elijo State Beach in San Diego.
The best hotel to stay near San Elijo State Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Staybridge Suites Carlsbad – San Diego (8.9/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
13. Del Mar City Beach
If you have a family, then Del Mar City Beach is your ideal spot in San Diego. It is best for families who have children, and the northern part of the beach is dog-friendly.
Del Mar | Photo by Kyle Sprague via Shutterstock
Here you can bring your kids and dogs along to enjoy the beach. Nearby, on 15th Street, you’ll find both Seagrove Park and Powerhouse Park. Both parks are ideal for an afternoon or evening-out for picnics, weddings, birthdays, or other social gatherings. Also, there are many cliffs and tidal pools in the south of the beach that look stunning.
You should take a few pictures here with your friends before going to jog or hike in the dirt path that stretches for several miles.
Del Mar City Beach
3200 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014, United States
Admission: Free
Ph:+1 858-755-9313
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Jake’s Del Mar (4.6/5 stars, Seafood, $$$)
• Pacifica Del Mar (4.5/5 stars, Seafood, $$)
• Beeside Balcony (4.5/5 stars, New American, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Del Mar City Beach in San Diego.
The best hotel to stay near Del Mar City Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• L’Auberge Del Mar (8.5/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
14. Moonlight State Beach
Moonlight State Beach is a popular spot in San Diego that has many essentials plus many bonfires in the evening. Here, expect to find a myriad of beach amenities such as fire pits, snack bar, bathrooms, and recreational facilities such as beach volleyball.
View Looking North: Moonlight Beach | Photo by Joe Wolf via Flickr
It is also easy to access from many locations in San Diego and there are plenty of lifeguards who watch over swimmers and boogie boarders. Initially, the city was popular for picnics that extended to evenings, but currently the city ceases most activities at sunset. Regardless, it’s one of the best beaches in San Diego for big groups.
Moonlight Beach
400 B St, Encinitas, CA 92024, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 760-633-2740
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Bigfoot Natural Cafe (4.9/5 stars, Vegan, $$$)
• Fish 101 Leucadia (4.7/5 stars, Seafood, $$)
• Le Papagayo (4.5/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Moonlight Beach in San Diego.
The best hotel to stay near Moonlight Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara, North San Diego (9.6/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
15. Black’s Beach
Black’s Beach in San Diego is one of the most secluded areas that is popular among surfers and sunbathers. It’s beneath the Torreo Oines State Reserve forests and can be accessed via the path along the cliffs.
Aerial of beach in Black’s Beach | Photo by Alexandre Moraes via Shutterstock
Black’s Beach is a clothing-optional beach popular for surfing. Many travelers also visit the beach to view its amazing scenery and surf in the waters. Black’s Beach is also very quiet and calm with many families visiting the area with their kids to have some family time. If you’re driving to the beach, ensure you park your car near the Torrey Pines Gliderport.
Black’s Beach
2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr, San Diego, CA 92037-1004
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 619-221-8899
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Pacific Fresh Grill (5/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Lagom Balanced Food (4.9/5 stars, Health Food, $$)
• NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Black’s Beach in San Diego.
The best hotel to stay near Black’s Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Grande Colonial (9/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
If you’re looking to spend quality time in San Diego, then there is a vast assortment of beaches you should check out. From Coronado Beach to Pacific Beach and Black’s Beach, all of these beaches offer a myriad of activities such as surfing, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and more that you’re sure to enjoy.
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