Overall Score: 6.1/10
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Summary
Overall, Fletcher Cove in Solana Beach gets a rating of 6.1/10. The beach is located in the heart of Solana Beach, easy walking distance from the strip of shops and restaurants off of Pacific Coast Highway. There are tons of amenities with Fletcher Cove Beach Park having a playground, basketball courts, park with picnic tables and benches overlook the ocean, and more. This beach is great for people seeking solitude away from crowds, as well as families, depending on which part of the beach you're at. Due to the coastal cliffs surrounding the beach, it can feel much smaller at high tides. Overall, this is a great beach for different views with plenty of amenities nearby.
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Notable Mention
Please note that Fletcher Cove does have a somewhat steep hill to walk down in order to get to the beach. Also, this beach can have different experiences based on how far from the access point you go.
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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 Fletcher Cove 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
There is a beach parking lot off of S Sierra Ave that does tend to fill up pretty quickly, and it can even fill up during non-peak times as well, as the lot isn't super big.
There is also a considerable amount of street parking in the residential areas nearby, as well as other public parking lots off of S Sierra Ave and S Acacia Ave. There are also spots along Pacific Coast Highway, but be aware of the signage as certain spots will have time limits.
Overall, you should be able to find a parking spot even during peak times. It might just be a bit further of a walk, however, there should be plenty of parking options available within a 10 minute walk regardless.
There are a lot of options for parking close by but they can fill up fast, which can make parking feel inconvenient or frustrating at times.
Something to note is that no matter where you park, it can be a rather longer walk from your car to the shore, and it requires walking down a semi steep paved hill, so if that is difficult then it's best to avoid this beach, as there are other beaches in San Diego that are easier to access.
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Rating = 5/10 - Overall, there's a decent amount of options for parking available, but it can fill up quickly and be difficult to find and/or congested during peak times, giving the parking an average rating.
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Crowds
Most people will tend to congregate at this beach directly in front of the access point, but if you walk a little further away either direction, there is typically tons of open space available where you can get away from the crowds.
Certain parts of the beach may feel smaller during high tides, eliminating some of this available space, but for the most part, it is easy to find spots further away from the main action at this beach.
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Rating = 6/10 - Overall, the crowds are dependent on where exactly you choose to set up on the beach, with it being typical of what you'd expect for most beaches in San Diego. However, it is still possible to find areas with less people giving it a slightly above average rating.
Amenities
From public bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, benches, grass areas, a playground, and basketball court right off the beach, there are plenty of amenities available here. Additionally, there are tons of shops, restaurants, and cafes within a 5 minute walk to the beach, making it so you can easily access whatever you might need within a short time frame.
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Rating = 7/10 - Due to the variety and range of amenities available just off the beach, in addition to a short distance from the beach, the amenities here receive an above average rating.
Safety
The beach is considered relatively safe, with lifeguards patrolling the area to ensure visitors' well-being. However, as with any natural environment, there are inherent risks, and visitors should exercise caution, especially in highly trafficked areas like the beach and ocean, and a lot of people coming and going from the area.
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Also, please note that there is a steep hill to get down to the beach. It is paved, but if hills are difficult for you to go up or down, then this is probably not the best beach to visit.
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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 = 7/10 - This beach is typically safe, but there might be more natural elements to take into consideration, less patrolling of the area, and it is more remote than some other beaches, which increases risks of natural elements and dangers.
Beach Cleanliness
The beach overall has average or slightly above average levels of cleanliness and quality sand. You might find slightly more rocks here compared to beaches in South or Central San Diego due to the cliffs. Additionally, in some places closer to the shore, the sand may appear to be more black and darker in color.
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Rating = 6/10 - Overall, the sand doesn't come across as high quality or low quality in either direction. The beach has typical cleanliness with occasional litter or trash left behind and things washing up to shore like most beaches in San Diego.
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Water Quality
The Water Quality at Fletcher Cove is generally the same throughout. It is generally safe to swim in the water, meaning the levels of bacteria in the water do not exceed the recommended amount. The water is tested by the City of San Diego every six days and posted on this website: County of San Diego Beach Water Quality (sdbeachinfo.com). It never hurts to check the status before going to the beach to make sure it's safe.
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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 - Typically clean, unless there is a storm. Be sure to avoid areas by river mouths and such in those cases.
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Activities
There aren't as many activities here compared to other beaches throughout the San Diego area. The typical swimming, boogie boarding, and surfing are really the only activities, as well as any beach games you choose to bring, as there is space for those as well.
It's also more limited in activities compared to other beaches, due to there being one beach access point that is more difficult to access, as well as it being a longer walk from the car to the shore no matter where you park.
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Rating = 5/10 - Overall, activities received a below average rating due there being certain limitations and a lack of range in what's available.
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Fletcher Cove
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 Solana Beach.
Check out the best beachfront accommodation and ocean views in Solana Beach!
See all the waterfront dining options available to you and pick where in Solana Beach you want to eat, grab drinks, and see the blue water!
Look at all the activities available in Solana Beach and enjoy the ocean by trying something new or doing your favorite activity!
Accommodation
Solana Beach
Between both vacation rentals and hotels, Solana Beach has limited options for places to stay directly on the water or with a view. See below for the different options available when staying in Solana Beach.
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. can be a more costly option in Solana Beach, but might be best if you are travelling in a large group and there is no budget for your stay. There are rentals in Solana Beach with spectacular views of the water, and this is your only bet if looking for a waterfront stay here.
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Hotels
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​​​There are no hotels located in Solana Beach that provide views of the ocean or beach. Check out Expedia or Hotels.com to see what else might be available, as there are several options within a close walking distance such as Holiday Inn Express, and Courtyard by Marriott Del Mar/Solana Beach.
Waterfront Dining
Solana Beach
Solana Beach doesn't have any waterfront dining options to choose from, however, there's plenty of options in neighboring Del Mar and Cardiff.
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Oceanfront Dining
Cardiff:​
Pacific Coast Grill - Enjoy fresh seafood and California cuisine with panoramic ocean views from the outdoor patio on the beach. Open for lunch and dinner.
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Chart House - This beachfront and upscale restaurant features stunning views and a menu of fresh seafood and steaks. Open for lunch and dinner.
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Del Mar:
Brigantine Oyster and Seafood Bar - This restaurant is located by Del Mar Racetrack in North Del Mar and is open for both lunch and dinner. ​
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Jake's Del Mar - This seafood restaurant is located directly on the beach and is open for lunch and dinner. The views from here don't get much better!
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Poseidon Restaurant Del Mar - This waterfront restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, and has outdoor seating in the sand directly on the beach. If you're looking to be close to the water, this is about as close as you can get!
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Monarch Ocean Pub - This restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and sits on top of a hill offering views of the ocean in the distance. They have indoor and outdoor seating available.
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Il Fornaio Del Mar - This Italian restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and has views of the ocean in the distance. There is both indoor and outdoor seating available.
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Shimbashi Izakaya - This Japanese restaurant is open for lunch until 2pm then reopens for dinner at 5pm. You can enjoy views of the ocean in the background from their patio.
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Pacifica Del Mar - This is an upscale, seafood restaurant located on a hill with views of the ocean. They are open for lunch and dinner.
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Del Mar Pizza - This is a popular spot in Del Mar for pizza. You can see the ocean from their outdoor patio, or you can grab some food to go and be at the ocean in mere minutes enjoying an unobstructed view.
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Sbicca - This restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and offers views of the ocean from their terrace.
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Beeside Balcony - This restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and has outdoor seating available. You can see faint views of the ocean in the distance from this restaurant.
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​​There are several other restaurants and cafes located in Solana Beach, but I only included the ones offering views of the water. There are a lot of restaurants in Solana Beach off of Pacific Coast Highway just a few minutes' walk away from the ocean.
Activities & Tours
Solana Beach
Solana Beach has several activities available to do on the water or with views of the water near Fletcher Cove. See below for a list of activities available near the ocean.
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 - Surfing is available at Fletcher Cove. Check out a private surf lesson or an all-day surfboard rental if interested in catching some waves!
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E-Bike Tours - Enjoy e-bike tour along the coast in North County San Diego, taking in the beautiful views along the way.
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E-Bike Rentals - Rent an e-bike by the hour in Solana Beach.
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Don't forget you can always enjoy beach games like spike ball, and more when at the beach!
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Transportation
Solana Beach
The best way to get around Solana 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.
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