Beaches in San Diego with Playgrounds for Kids
- San Diego Beach Review
- Aug 6
- 3 min read
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San Diego is famous for its beautiful coastline, but what makes it truly family-friendly are the beaches with playgrounds, perfect for keeping little ones entertained on and off the sand. Whether you’re looking for calm waters, grassy picnic areas, or ocean views with swings and slides, San Diego has a variety of spots that are ideal for kids.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best beaches in San Diego with playgrounds for kids, including La Jolla Shores, Del Mar Beach, Fletcher Cove, Moonlight State Beach, Bonita Cove, and Fanuel Street Park.
These family-friendly beaches combine fun in the water with safe, shaded play areas so you can relax while your kids play.
La Jolla Shores Beach & Kellogg Park Playground
La Jolla Shores is arguably the best family beach in San Diego. The gentle waves, sandy bottom, and lifeguards make it a top choice for young swimmers. Behind the beach at Kellogg Park, there’s a spacious grassy area with two playgrounds: one for toddlers and another for older kids.
Tip: Bring along this portable beach umbrella to keep your spot cool all day.
Del Mar Beach & Powerhouse Park Playground
Del Mar Beach is another favorite for families, thanks to its wide sandy stretch and clean water. Powerhouse Park, located just above the beach, features a small playground with slides and climbing structures, as well as plenty of grassy space for a picnic.
Tip: Pack a family-friendly beach cooler to keep drinks and snacks handy. Explore our guide to Del Mar Beach here.
Fletcher Cove Beach Park — Solana Beach
This charming bluff-top park in Solana Beach features a newly upgraded playground, basketball court, restrooms, and direct beach access. Fletcher Cove is a quiet, scenic spot with lifeguards and showers — perfect for a low-key beach day.
Tip: Don’t forget a beach wagon to haul your gear down the ramp. Learn more about Solana Beach here.
Moonlight State Beach — Encinitas
Moonlight State Beach is one of the most complete family beaches in the region. There’s a playground, restrooms, volleyball courts, snack shack, picnic tables, and even fire rings for evening s’mores. Kids love the colorful play structures, while parents appreciate the easy parking and lifeguards.
Bonita Cove — Mission Bay
Bonita Cove offers calm bay water and a small playground, perfect for younger kids who aren’t ready for ocean waves. It’s quiet compared to the nearby bustling boardwalk and has plenty of picnic tables and grassy areas.
Fanuel Street Park — Mission Bay
Fanuel Street Park is a hidden gem on the bay side of Pacific Beach. The calm, shallow water is ideal for little ones, and the playground sits right on the sand. It’s a favorite among locals looking for a mellow beach day away from crowds.
Tip: Keep kids’ skin safe with this high-rated reef-safe sunscreen.
FAQ: Beaches in San Diego with Playgrounds
Which San Diego beach has the biggest playground?
La Jolla Shores/Kellogg Park offers the most spacious playground with separate areas for different age groups.
Are these beaches good for toddlers?
Yes — especially Bonita Cove, and Kellogg Park, thanks to calm water and shaded play areas.
Do any beaches have playgrounds right on the sand?
Yes — Moonlight State Beach and Fanuel Street Park both feature playgrounds directly on or just off the sand.
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