Getting Around San Diego's Coast: The Best Ways to Travel Between Beach Towns

Carlsbad Promenade

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San Diego’s coastline is home to some of the most stunning beach towns in California, from the lively boardwalks of Pacific Beach to the charming coastal vibes of Encinitas. Whether you're a visitor exploring the San Diego area or a local looking for new ways to navigate the coast, there are plenty of ways for getting around. From biking along the shore to cruising in a golf cart, here’s your guide to the best ways to travel between San Diego’s coastal towns.

1. Driving Along the Coast

Why Drive?

Driving is the most convenient way to travel between beach towns if you want flexibility and the ability to explore multiple spots in one day.

Best Coastal Routes:

• Highway 101 (Pacific Coast Highway) – A scenic drive passing through La Jolla, Del Mar, Encinitas, and Carlsbad, offering breathtaking ocean views.

• La Jolla Boulevard/Mission Boulevard – Perfect for short trips between La Jolla, Pacific Beach, and Mission Beach

• Silver Strand Boulevard – A coastal drive between Coronado and Imperial Beach.

Parking Tips:

• Many beaches have free and paid parking lots, but they fill up quickly—arrive early!

• Utilize street parking in areas like Coronado, Pacific Beach and La Jolla, but check signs for time limits.

Parking at Torrey Pines along the Pacific Coast Highway

2. Biking the Coast

Why Bike?

San Diego has plenty of scenic bike paths along the coast, making cycling one of the best eco-friendly ways to explore beach towns without worrying about parking.

Best Coastal Bike Routes:

• Mission Bay Loop – A 12-mile scenic, flat route perfect for casual riders.

• Silver Strand Bikeway – A 10-mile stretch connecting Coronado to Imperial Beach with ocean views on both sides.

• Coastal Rail Trail – A bike-friendly path running from Oceanside to Solana Beach, following the Coaster train line.

• Mission Beach & Pacific Beach Boardwalk - A casual 3-mile route with the boardwalk running parallel to the coast.

Check out more information on Coastal Bike Routes if interested in biking along the coast.

Having a bike can be a great way to get around in places that have limited parking like within Pacific Beach and Mission Beach via the bay or boardwalk. Also, biking around Coronado can also be a great option if your hotel or rental is far from the beach, or if you'd like to travel between the beach and ferry landing without a car.

3. Walking Between Beach Towns

Why Walk?

For shorter distances, walking is a great way to soak in the views and enjoy the fresh ocean air.

Best Walkable Coastal Areas:

• La Jolla Cove to Windansea Beach – A scenic 2.5-mile walk with stunning cliffs and sea lion sightings.

• Pacific Beach to Mission Beach – A 3-mile boardwalk filled with beachfront restaurants, shops, and lively energy.

• Encinitas to Cardiff-by-the-Sea – A beautiful stretch along Highway 101 with ocean breezes and cozy cafés. You can walk on the path along Pacific Coast Highway or on the Coastal Rail Trail.

• Carlsbad Promenade: Enjoy a scenic walk along the bluffs in Carlsbad, paralleling the beach. The oceanside sidewalk spans over 1.5 miles.

Mission Bay Boardwalk

4. Golf Carts for a Fun Coastal Ride

Why Choose a Golf Cart?

Golf carts are an increasingly popular way to get around beach towns, offering an open-air, easy-to-park alternative to cars.

Where to Rent Golf Carts:

• La Jolla Golf Carts – Perfect for cruising through La Jolla’s coastline.

• PB Golf Carts – Explore Pacific Beach and Mission Beach with ease.

• Encinitas EZ Golf Cart Rentals – A great way to explore North County’s beach towns.

5. Electric Bikes (E-Bikes) for Effortless Travel

Why Ride an E-Bike?

E-bikes make coastal riding effortless, allowing you to travel farther and faster without exhausting yourself on long hills.

Best E-Bike Trails:

• Carlsbad Coastal Rail Trail – A smooth, scenic route perfect for e-biking.

• Torrey Pines to Del Mar – A breathtaking ride with ocean views and a mix of beach paths and coastal roads.

• Mission Bay Loop – A 12-mile loop around the bay with flat, easy-to-ride terrain.

E-Bike Rentals:

• Mission Beach & Pacific Beach: Bike Tour

• Encinitas: Self-Guided E-Bike Tour

Coastal Rail Trail in Encinitas

6. Public Transportation for a Budget-Friendly Option

Why Use Public Transit?

San Diego’s transit system offers an affordable way to travel between coastal towns without worrying about parking.

Best Public Transit Options:

• Coaster Train – Scenic route that runs from Downtown San Diego to Oceanside, stopping in Solana Beach, Encinitas, and Carlsbad.

• Trolley (Blue Line) – Connects Downtown San Diego to La Jolla and University City.

• MTS Buses – Serves multiple beach communities, including Ocean Beach and Pacific Beach.

If you're able to afford renting a car or taking an uber/lyft, then I'd recommend that over public transportation for traveling throughout San Diego County.

Final Thoughts

Exploring San Diego’s coastline is easy with so many transportation options available. Whether you prefer driving along scenic routes, biking on the boardwalk, or taking a golf cart for a fun ride, there’s a way to get around that fits your style. Plan your coastal adventure and enjoy everything San Diego’s beach towns have to offer!