Pacific Beach
Pacific Beach is action packed and offers a lively atmosphere. It consists of about a half mile stretch of beach South of the pier and extends about a mile North of the pier. When reading this review, please consider that different parts of the beach will offer different things and it is not the same throughout.
Beach Review
Overall Score: 5.7/10
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Summary
Pacific Beach receives an overall rating of 5.7 out of 10, giving it a slightly above average rating. This is due to the immense amount of activities and amenities available, in addition to the generally good water quality, but the average ratings of parking, safety, crowds, and beach cleanliness bring the score down. There are different vibes and things to offer south of the pier in PB than there are north of the pier in PB, so that is important to consider when taking these ratings into account.
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Notable Mention
Pacific Beach can be a hit or miss experience depending on what you're looking for in your beach day. If you highly value wide open spaces, and limited crowds then it's probably not going to be your favorite. However, if you value activities and having access to a wide range of amenities close by, then it could be just what you're looking for!
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Scale
1 - Worst Case Scenario
10 - Best Case Scenario
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Continue reading below for an in-depth analysis of Coronado Beach and an understanding of each score. If you have any questions or think something should be added, feel free to comment below or send us a message via chat!
Parking
The parking in Pacific Beach can be a bit tricky, especially during busy times. Unlike places with parking lots, this beach mostly depends on street parking along residential areas. The catch is that many residents use these streets, making it a bit of a competition for spots. How hard it is to find parking depends on which part of the beach you're heading to.
In general, it's tougher to find parking along the street south of the pier than in areas north of the pier. This is because there aren't as many streets available for street parking close by, but, it can still be tough for both. Overall, it's easier to find street parking north of the pier. Parking difficulty is also influenced by the time of day, the day of the week, and the current season. Nevertheless, whether you park north or south of the pier, both areas are usually reachable within a 15-minute walk from your parking spot.
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Other Information
There are some paid parking lots throughout the PB area near some of the shops and restaurants, particularly near Mission Boulevard and Garnett Street. I would say it's never necessary to pay to park here, because you should always be able to find street parking somewhere, but if you don't want to mess with a finding a spot, you can always choose to pay if you wish.
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For street parking, be sure to read the signs if you're parking overnight or in the mornings to ensure you're not going to be parked during street cleanings to avoid a ticket!
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Similar to other areas along the San Diego Coast, it can be nearly impossible to find a parking spot during peak times, such as weekend afternoons in the summer or on holidays. Arriving before 10 am during the summer months will help secure a spot and avoid some of the traffic.
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Rating = 5/10 - You should pretty much always be able to secure a spot on a street somewhere. It is going to be easier in North PB, but it can still be difficult to do so during peak times. So, you might have to walk far to get to the beach at times, giving the parking in PB a rating of 5/10.
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Crowds
A lot of people visit Pacific Beach, so it can feel quite crowded at times! Pacific Beach experiences high crowd levels, especially during peak times.
The beach north of the pier tends to feel cramped, particularly during high tides, as it is relatively smaller and not very wide, creating a more congested atmosphere.
On the other hand, the beach south of the pier is more expansive, providing more physical space. However, this area still attracts a significant number of people due to the presence of numerous food establishments, restaurants, and hotels.
Whether it's north of the pier or the south of it, Pacific Beach consistently draws crowds, so crowds and limited space should be expected during visits here.
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Rating = 4/10 - Pacific Beach is often crowded with a lot of people and not many spots where you can get away from the crowds, giving it a score of 4 out of 10.
Amenities
Pacific Beach boasts an abundance of amenities both north and south of the pier, catering to various needs. Whether you find yourself on the northern or southern side, you'll have access to bathrooms, restaurants, shops, and more.
The areas just south and north of the pier offer the most amenities, providing a convenient array of stores and rental shops within a short walk. As you move further north, the density of food options may decrease, but there are still accessible bathrooms near Law Street and Tourmaline, ensuring basic facilities are available even in more remote parts of the beach.
Whether you're in the heart of Pacific Beach or exploring its quieter stretches, convenience and essential amenities are always within reach.
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Rating = 7/10 -There are plenty of amenities by the beach to be enjoyed regardless of where you are on the beach, you'll always be within a short walk to what you need.
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Safety
Pacific Beach maintains a high level of safety, particularly with dedicated lifeguards stationed along the beach and regular patrols in place. However, it's worth noting that the area's popularity among younger crowds, often drawn to partying and drinking in larger groups, may impact the overall sense of security.
This beach may not be considered the safest place to leave personal belongings unattended on the beach. The vibrant and lively nature of the area's energy, means visitors should exercise awareness and caution, as one would when in a public space.
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***Please note that the ocean is unpredictable and there can be strong currents anywhere on the beach at any time. Be sure to take necessary precautions before getting in the water and always ask a lifeguard if it is safe if you are unsure.
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Rating = 5/10 - This beach gets an average rating for safety, as there is a lot going on here to be aware of, but it is also heavily patrolled with lifeguards.
Beach Cleanliness
The beach cleanliness of Pacific Beach falls somewhere in the middle, not standing out as the cleanest stretch in San Diego. While it's not explicitly dirty, it doesn't exude a particularly clean ambiance either.
North of the pier, the sand quality is often less than optimal, tending to be harder and more compact due to the frequent washing over by the tide.
Conversely, the sand south of the pier is better quality, softer, and more plush. However, despite its finer texture, the southern section, being highly trafficked, is more susceptible to accumulating litter left behind by beachgoers.
Overall, Pacific Beach may not boast the cleanest sands, it still can offer a desirable beach experience, due to the varying degrees of cleanliness depending on the location.
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Rating = 4/10 - The beach has different feels to it, depending at what part you're at, but it doesn't stand out either way in regards to being clean or extremely dirty, so we're giving it a slightly less than average rating.
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Water Quality
The water quality in Pacific Beach, both north and south of the pier, is generally good, providing a safe environment for beachgoers.
The City of San Diego conducts daily water testing, and you can find the results on the County of San Diego Beach Water Quality website (sdbeachinfo.com). It's advisable to check this information before heading to the beach to ensure your safety.
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It is important to note that after rain, it is recommended to wait at least 72 hours before getting back in the water due to increased contaminants and sewage going in the ocean.
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Rating = 7/10 - Generally safe and clean for swimming consistently
Activities
Pacific Beach offers a diverse range of activities, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy both north and south of the pier.
Whether you're into surfing, swimming, boogie boarding, strolling along the boardwalk, biking, fishing, or engaging in beach games, the options are endless. For those new to surfing, Tourmaline, the northernmost stretch of beach, stands out as one of San Diego's renowned beginner surf spots. It provides an excellent opportunity for those looking to catch some waves for the first time.
Additionally, in San Diego, it's essential to stay mindful of the designated swimming and surfing areas, as indicated by flags, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in the water. With multiple activities to choose from, Pacific Beach caters to a diverse range of options, making it an ideal destination for people seeking an action packed beach day.
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Rating = 8/10 - There are endless activities available to be enjoyed, and there are always people partaking in the action here. You really can engage in any activity you'd like in PB.
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Pacific Beach
Sleep, Eat, Play, & Relax In the Water, On The Water, or Near the Water!
This site only includes information and experiences relating to everything in, on, or near the water. When in San Diego, why not experience the beach and beautiful waterfront as much as possible!? From dining experiences to accommodation options, we have everything you need to start planning your waterfront vacation in Pacific Beach.
Check out the best beachfront accommodation and ocean views in Pacific Beach!
See all the waterfront dining options available to you and pick where in Pacific Beach you want to eat, grab drinks, and see the blue water!
Look at all the activities available in Pacific Beach and enjoy the ocean by trying something new or doing your favorite activity!
Accommodation
Pacific Beach
Between both vacation rentals and hotels, Pacific Beach has quite a few options to stay in on the water! See below for the different waterfront options available when staying in PB.
Disclosure: This section features several affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. However, not all links posted are affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
Vacation Rentals
Staying in vacation rentals from sites like VRBO, Airbnb, Homestay, etc. are some of the best bets for being directly on the beach or the bay with a waterfront view. There is an abundance of vacation rentals available in the Pacific Beach area. If you are traveling with a big family or group of people, it could be beneficial to have the extra space of a house; a lot of them have patios, balconies, or rooftop decks with unobstructed views of the ocean or bay.
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View of Crystal Pier Hotel & Cottages on Crystal Pier
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Hotels
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Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa - This hotel is located on Mission Bay, and right on the cusp of where Mission Beach runs into Pacific Beach. This resort has many rentals available, summer movie nights on the bay, and waterfront dining. They have rooms with both bay and ocean views. It would just be a few minutes to walk to the ocean in Pacific Beach. The area of the beach by the ocean here is typically more crowded and run down due to the heavy foot traffic.
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Wayfarer San Diego - This hotel is located on the boardwalk in Pacific Beach just south of the pier. This hotel has a pool and is near a lot of restaurants and shops. Most of the rooms should have some sort of view of the ocean, and if not, you'll definitely be able to see it by stepping outside your room.
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Surfer Beach Hotel - This hotel is also located on the boardwalk just south of the pier in Pacific Beach. It also includes a pool and is just steps to the beach.
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Ocean Park Inn - This hotel is located in Pacific Beach, south of the pier. It is oceanfront and also has a small pool available swimming.
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Crystal Pier Hotel & Cottages - This hotel is located on Crystal Pier in Pacific Beach. Some of these rooms are completely over the water and have patios on the pier with tables and chairs to sit out at. If you're looking to hear the sounds of the ocean as you fall asleep each night, this would be the best place to stay as they'll be right underneath you!
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TOWER23 - This hotel is located on the boardwalk in PB north of the pier. There is a nice sitting area looking out over the ocean and also a restaurant with views of the ocean as well. This is one of the nicer oceanfront hotels in the PB area.
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Pacific Terrace Hotel - This hotel is located on the San Diego Bay within a short walk to Ferry Landing. It provides views of the Coronado Bridge and downtown San Diego, and it also has a pool, fitness center, basketball court, and more.
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There are other hotels located in Pacific Beach that are near shops and restaurants, but don't provide views of the ocean, bay, or beach. Check out Expedia or Hotels.com to see what else might be available.
Waterfront Dining
Pacific Beach
Pacific Beach has a nice amount of waterfront dining options to choose from on both the ocean and the bay. See below for a list of restaurants, cafes, and more right on the water.
Disclosure: This section features several affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. However, not all links posted are affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
Oceanfront Dining
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World Famous - This restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and sits right on the boardwalk in Pacific Beach. If you choose to sit on the oceanfront patio, you'll have great views of the ocean.
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Woody's Breakfast And Burgers- This is a casual, laid-back spot situated right on the boardwalk with views of the ocean. They're open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
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Baja Beach Cafe - Located directly on the boardwalk in PB with a multitude of outdoor seating with views of the ocean, this spot is open all day long into the late night and has brunch, lunch, and dinner, and drinks to keep you going.
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Waterbar - This is located on the boardwalk in PB and they have full windows that open up and give full unobstructed views of the ocean. The view is great from inside! They serve lunch and dinner, along with a bar menu and specialty drinks.
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PB Shore Club - This bar & grill is located on the boardwalk offering views of the ocean as well as breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
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JRDN Restaurant - This is a primarily steak and seafood restaurant located on the boardwalk in north PB offering views of the ocean in the distance. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
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Amplified Kitchen & Beer Garden - This beerpub has a patio that offers ocean views and is open for brunch and dinner.
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El Prez - This is a popular Mexican Restaurant & Bar that offers food for lunch and dinner and serves drinks late into the night.
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View from restaurants on boardwalk
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Bayfront Dining
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Oceana - Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this restaurant offers upfront views of the bay and great people watching as people go by on the boardwalk and is located at the Catamaran Resort.
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There are several other restaurants and cafes located in Pacific Beach, but I only included the ones offering views of the water. There are lots of places within a few blocks to the beach where you can eat or even get food to go to take to the beach.
Activities & Tours
Pacific Beach
Pacific Beach has several activities available to do on the water or with views of the water. See below for a list of activities available near the ocean and bay.
Disclosure: This section features several affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. However, not all links posted are affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
Ocean-Related Activities/Tours
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Water Sports - Surfboards, boogie boards, SUPs, Kayaks (single, tandem, clear bottom), and more are available to rent to enjoy in the ocean and bay. Additionally, many companies offer private and group surf lessons, so you don't have to brave the water alone if interested in catching some waves! You can also out yourself to the test and try out a private e-foil lesson on the bay.
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Whale Watching - Set out on one of the Whale Watching Tours that leaves from Mission Bay and see different types of whales and hundreds of dolphins. There are many different group tours and private tours available. There's even a sunset tour too!
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Sunset Sail on the Bay - Enjoy a nice sunset cruise sailing around the bay. Take in the beautiful surroundings during golden hour and sit back and relax!
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Parasailing - Have you ever wondered what the coastline looks like from above? Enjoy a relaxing parasail ride and see for yourself. Tours depart from Mission Bay.
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Scuba Diving - Take off on a scuba diving adventure and see what's below. The boat departs from Mission Bay.
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Helicopter Tours - Soar above the ocean on a helicopter tour and see what things look like from above.
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Professional Beachfront Picnics - Want to have a romantic lunch or dinner? How about a group picnic with friends at sunset where everything is taken care of for you? Enjoy a luxurious picnic on the beach from one of the many companies offering this service.
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Bonfires - Nothing better than enjoying a bonfire on the beach after the sun goes down to end the day! There are several companies that will set everything up for you and all you'll have to do is show up.
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Pier Fishing - Set up along the pier and see what fish you can catch in the designated areas off the pier. There are also sinks on the pier, if needed!
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Bike Rentals - Do you like to ride bikes? Have fun riding a bike along the boardwalk as you take in the ocean views. There is also an informative bike tour along Mission Bay and Pacific Beach/Mission Beach that you can sign up for.
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Activities/Tours on the Bay
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Water Sports - Have fun on the calm bay waters on a paddleboard or kayak (single, tandem, clear bottom) rentals available. There are several rental options available. Take a sailing lesson, or a yoga paddleboard class. The options are endless.
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Boat Rentals - Rent a boat for just a few hours or the whole day. They come in all sizes and vary from speedboats to pontoons.
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Jet Skis - Rent jet skis and have fun playing in the bay. Be sure to go the proper speed limit in the different zones as there are often people swimming, paddleboarding, etc. to watch out for.
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Pedal Boats - Rent a pedal boat and have fun on the bay with a friend or loved one pedaling away while enjoying the bay without getting wet!
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Paddle Pub - Let loose on a paddle pub boat and drink with your friends on the bay!
Painting by the Bay - Take in the serene surroundings and put your painting skills to the test and take a paint class on the bay.
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Movie by the Bay - Enjoy the movies put on by the Catamaran Hotel Resort and get cozy as you watch your favorite films by the bay.
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Professional Picnic - Want to have a romantic lunch or dinner? How about a group picnic with friends where everything is taken care of for you? Enjoy a luxurious picnic on the beach from one of the many companies offering this service.
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Seaside Cinema - Enjoy a private, cozy setup for you and your partner, a group of friends, or your family with snacks provided and a movie of your choice in a private screening on the bay just for your group.
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Bonfires - Nothing better than enjoying a bonfire on the beach after the sun goes down to end the day! There are several companies that will set everything up for you and all you'll have to do is show up.
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Bike Rentals - Do you like to ride bikes? Have fun riding a bike along the boardwalk as you take in the bay. There is also an informative bike tour along Mission Bay and Mission Beach that you can sign up for.
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Both the beach and bay allow for volleyball games, and other beach games such as spike ball, football, soccer, cornhole, or whatever you might enjoy! With the beach, there are endless options available. Pacific Beach is great because the bay and ocean both provide ways to enjoy the water.
Transportation
Pacific Beach
The best way to get around Pacific Beach is by car, foot, or bike. See below for more information.
Disclosure: This section features several affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. However, not all links posted are affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
The best way to get around depends on what you plan to do, where you're staying, and the time of year. During busy times such as 4th of July, there is limited parking so using your car is probably the worst way to get around, especially at peak times.
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If you are flying into the San Diego airport, I recommend renting a car so that you can explore other areas too. There are many rental car companies to choose from at the airport.
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Walking or biking between your vacation rental or hotel to the beach and to restaurants is a great option if you can handle it.
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Overall, I believe it's best to have a car, as that gives you freedom to explore other areas without having to worry about public transport or lyfts/ubers. As long as you keep in mind where you are going and the parking situation, you should be fine. If exploring other areas nearby such as La Jolla, downtown, etc., you might have to pay to park if it is crowded.
