Which San Diego Beach Fits Your Vibe?
It’s no secret that SoCal has some spectacular beaches. Still, beaches are like seashells: No two are exactly the same. Much like our neighborhoods, the beaches in “America’s Finest City” each have a distinct character and personality. And depending on your lifestyle, some beaches may offer more of what you’re looking for than others. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide to finding the best San Diego beach to fit your style.
Mission Beach — Best For Families (1.4 miles)
Bringing the whole crew to the beach? Families looking for a relaxing day by the water will have a great day anywhere they go, but The Dana’s home of Mission Bay boasts beaches that stand out when it comes to a family-friendly atmosphere. South Mission Bay Beach is located in an area near many seasonal summer homes, so the beach itself offers much in the way of creature comforts — like volleyball courts, restrooms, bike and roller skate rentals, and lifeguard stations. North Mission Bay is located close to Belmont Park, a timeless boardwalk-style theme park with plenty of rides, games, an arcade, and a carnival midway, making for a fun-filled family day out.
3000 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
Ocean Beach — Best for Bohemians (2.1 miles)
San Diego has always had a special draw for anyone desiring that classically groovy, West Coast vibe. So if your version of California dreamin’ centers on soaking up the sunshine, unwinding, and hanging out, you’ll want to head for Ocean Beach. This stretch of shoreline is perfectly suited to gatherings of the bonfire, volleyball, and solace-seeking variety. Plus, the surrounding community has long been a gathering point for hippies, hipsters, beatniks and everyone in between. So if you’re in the market for a Cali kick-back that’s heavy on the tie-dye, dreadlocks, bare feet, rock t-shirts, board shorts, hacky sacks, drum circles and a dynamite farmers market, then OB should be exactly the jam you’re on the hunt for.
5156 W Point Loma Blvd, San Diego, CA 92107
Pacific Beach — Best For The Party Crowd (2.8 miles)
Looking for a classically upbeat good time? Then make your way to Pacific Beach. A young, energetic and fashionable crowd convenes on Pacific Beach’s shoreline in order to enjoy the yoga studios, cafés, boutiques, nightclubs, bars and niche restaurants along the boardwalk, ensuring that there’s truly never a dull moment anytime you choose to visit. Sunbathers, snorkelers and divers gravitate here, as well. Additionally, the oceancity views are sweepingly panoramic from PB, and the water is always inviting and warm for swimmers.
4500 Ocean Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
Bermuda Beach — Best For Solace-Seekers (2.8 miles)
There’s just something about soft sand and lapping waves that has a way of soothing the soul. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect low-traffic shore to relax and unwind, you’ll want to seek out Bermuda Beach. This quiet, peaceful stretch is located along a section of frontage that’s tucked away below some residential buildings. Stairs here lead from the street level to the beach for easy access. So seek it out, dig your toes into the sand and let the waves carry your tension out to the sea.
4848 Bermuda Ave San Diego, CA 92107
Sunset Cliffs — Best For Couples (3.5 miles)
Real talk: there’s no bad place to watch a romantic sunset anywhere in San Diego. Spectacular evening sky displays are sort of what we’re known for in this neck of the woods. That said, Sunset Cliffs earned its name for a reason. This 68-acre city park is nestled along the northwestern edge of the Point Loma neighborhood, and offers some of the most incredibly vibrant sun, sky, and water interactions of anywhere on the west coast. If you’re looking to make a day of it, the majestic sandstone cliff faces here also offer explorers some scenic caves, tide pool areas, and other fantastic natural beauty. You’re also welcome to pack a picnic with that special someone for a little alfresco nibble. Just be sure to head back topside when it’s time for the evening’s nightly celestial light show.
1024 Cordova St, San Diego, CA 92107
Oceanside Beach (13.2 miles) / Black’s Beach (37 miles) — Best For Surfers
SoCal surfing isn’t just a way to pass the time — it’s a way of life. Entire cottage industries, a distinct fashion style, and a fully fledged music genre have all sprung up around it, so you know San Diegans take their surfing pretty seriously. If you’re looking to shoot the curl, hang ten, and get up to all the other stuff the Beach Boys rhapsodized about, you’re spoiled for choice here. Beginning surfers would be best-served at Oceanside Beach, where the waves are gentle and so is the crowd. If your novice days are behind you, then you might feel bold enough to give the serious swells of La Jolla’s Black’s Beach a try. Either way, when the waves start calling, you’re in the right spot.
Oceanside: N Pacific St, Oceanside, CA 92054
Black’s: 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037
Reach The Beach From The Dana
With more than 70 miles of coastline to explore, San Diego is truly an ocean-lover’s paradise. But no matter which of San Diego’s many beaches winds up being your favorite, The Dana on Mission Bay is the perfect “base camp” for launching your exploration. We offer a central location, competitive rates, and exquisite comfort that’s second-to-none Take a look at our Special Offers page and book your stay today!