San Diego: Ocean Beach Guide
Ocean Beach is great if you're looking to have access to a lot of amenities, catch some waves, or enjoy a drink with an ocean view.
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Overall Score: 5.7/10
Summary
Overall, Ocean Beach gets a score of 5.7/10. It is a good place to visit if you're looking to have access to a lot of amenities, catch some waves, or enjoy a drink with an ocean view. The overall rating was brought down by parking, crowds, and beach cleanliness. However, there are a lot of amenities available close to the beach, as it is a relatively small area.
Notable Mention
Please note that the south part of Ocean Beach will provide a different feeling and experience than the north part of Ocean Beach. The north part is wider, and will feel more relaxing as it is further away from all the amenities and foot traffic of downtown OB. Some scores were lower or higher due to the south and north part being grouped together, but offering different experiences.
Scale
1 - Worst Case Scenario
10 - Best Case Scenario
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
There are parking lots as well as street parking in Ocean Beach available.
For the parking lots, there are three main parking lots in Ocean Beach right along the beach that are available to park in for free.
The first one is the biggest lot which is off of W Point Loma Blvd. and Voltaire St. This is North Ocean Beach and right next to Dog Beach as well. The second one is off of Abbott St. next to the main lifeguard tower that runs into Santa Monica Avenue. This is the smallest lot, and it will be filled up quickly. This lot is closer to the pier, restaurants, and downtown area of OB. The third lot is right next to the pier where Abbott St. turns into Newport Avenue, and it is also as close as you can get to the main downtown strip of OB with all the restaurants and shops, as well as being directly on the beach, so this lot will be crowded as well.
There are a lot of residential streets towards the Northern part of Ocean Beach, so that will be the best bet for street parking. Since it's also further away from the activity of the shops and restaurants, there is naturally less people and traffic there.
As with most beaches in San Diego, you'll want to arrive in the morning to ensure you'll have a parking spot. During peak times, it can be difficult to get a spot. Additionally, the OB Farmer's market is on Wednesdays, so it can be harder to find parking on these days as well.
Rating = 5/10 - The parking is average, as there are several options available depending on which part of the beach you're trying to go to, but finding a spot might still involve some strategy at peak times.
Crowds
The beach tends to feel less crowded in the north part of OB or near Dog Beach, most likely due to there being less amenities and restaurants available. Additionally, the beach is much wider and more spacious in this area.
The south stretch of beach around the main lifeguard tower and towards the pier are much narrower. These sections of the beach feel crowded very quickly and often, especially during high tide.
Rating = 5/10 - All in all, there are parts of the beach that will have space further from people if you're trying to avoid the crowds.
Amenities
There are a good amount of amenities available in Ocean Beach. From grass areas, benches, shops, restaurants, cafes, water sport rentals, hotels, bathrooms, showers, and more, there is plenty at your disposal.
Depending on which part of the beach you're at, you'll either be about a few minutes' walk from these amenities (if you're in South OB) or no further than about a 10 minute walk if you're in North OB. Either way, there is very close access to everything, as it is a small area with a lot packed in.
Rating = 7/10 -There are tons of amenities available, all within a short distance of each other and close to the beach.
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.
Since the downtown OB area falls directly into the beach there can be some riff raff at the beach or in the parking lots, so just be sure to look after your belongings and not to leave anything unattended that you wouldn't want to be stolen.
***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.
Rating = 6/10 - Safety gets about an average rating as the beach is heavily patrolled, but personal belongings can be at risk if unattended, which can happen anywhere but might be slightly more likely to happen here.
Beach Cleanliness
It's not uncommon to find pieces of trash in certain parts of the beach or in the seaweed that has washed to shore. For the most part the beach is generally clean, and has average cleanliness throughout.
The sections of beach towards the pier and downtown OB are more susceptible to littering as they are often more trafficked and it's a smaller stretch of beach.
Overall, beach cleanliness is typical and about what you'd expect for a beach close to a downtown area in the south part, while feeling cleaner in the north part of the beach.
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Rating = 5/10 - The beach cleanliness is slightly above average and about what you'd expect for a small stretch of beach that is heavily trafficked.
Water Quality
The Water Quality at Ocean Beach 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.
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, especially near storm drains, rivers, and lagoon outlets.
Rating = 6/10 - Typically clean, unless there is a storm.
Activities
There are multiple activities available in Ocean Beach, the main ones being swimming, boogie boarding, and surfing. Surfing is popular throughout the shoreline here for beginners and experienced surfers alike. There are also volleyball poles available throughout the beach in the North stretch, allowing visitors to set up nets and play volleyball if they like.
Rating = 6/10 - Your typical beach activities are available and easily accessible, giving it about an average rating, as more activities might be found at other beaches.
Ocean 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 Ocean Beach.
Check out the best beachfront accommodation and ocean views in Ocean Beach!
See all the waterfront dining options available to you and pick where in Ocean Beach you want to eat, grab drinks, and see the blue water!
Look at all the activities available in Ocean Beach and enjoy the ocean by trying something new or doing your favorite activity!
Accommodation
Ocean Beach
Between both vacation rentals and hotels, Ocean Beach has a few options to stay in on the water! See below for the different waterfront options available when staying in Ocean 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 great choice for staying in or near Ocean Beach. There might be more limited choices for rentals directly on the beach or with views of the water though. 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 do have patios, balconies, or rooftop decks with unobstructed views of the ocean.
Hotels
Ocean Villa Inn - Located directly next to Dog Beach, Ocean Villa Inn offers rooms with ocean or courtyard views, an outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and pet-friendly options.
Ocean Beach Hotel - A boutique hotel centrally located near Newport Avenue, Ocean Beach Hotel features stylish rooms with ocean or city views, a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, on-site dining, complimentary breakfast, fitness center, and concierge services.
The Inn at Sunset Cliffs- Nestled atop cliffs, The Inn at Sunset Cliffs boasts panoramic ocean views, cozy rooms with private balconies, a tranquil courtyard, outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and access to a secluded beach cove. (Technically, it's not in Ocean Beach, but it's just a mile and a few minutes' drive away).
There are other hotels located in or near Ocean Beach that are near shops and restaurants, but don't provide views of the ocean or beach. Check out Expedia or Hotels.com to see what else might be available.
Waterfront Dining
Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach has a a few waterfront dining options to choose from with views of the ocean. See below for a list of restaurants, cafes, and more by 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
South Beach Bar & Grille - South Beach Bar & Grille serves lunch and dinner. It offers seafood and Californian cuisine, often with a beachy vibe and has partial views of the ocean.
OB Surf Lodge - OB Surf Lodge serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It offers American fare and cocktails, and it has direct views of the ocean, providing a scenic dining experience.
Wonderland Ocean Pub - Wonderland Ocean Pub serves lunch and dinner. It's known for its panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and diverse menu, offering stunning ocean vistas.
O'Bistro Cafe - O'Bistro Cafe serves breakfast and lunch. It's a cozy spot with limited but beautiful ocean views, perfect for a relaxed morning or midday meal..
Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach - Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach specializes in seafood and offers a variety of dishes for lunch and dinner with a coastal flair and ocean views.
There are several other restaurants and cafes located in Ocean Beach, but I only included the ones offering views of the water.
Activities & Tours
Ocean Beach
Ocean 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.
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
Small Group Cave Tour Adventure from Sunset Cliffs - Explore hidden sea caves on this guided cave tour at Sunset Cliffs. Tours include a variety of terrain including tide pools, shallow ocean waters, rocky shores, remote beaches, steep cliffs, and more. These are physical adventures suitable for hikers with moderate experience and ability.
Surf Lessons - Try catching some waves at one of the surf schools in Ocean Beach offering group and private lessons for all experience levels. Both San Diego Surf School and Ocean Beach Surf School are highly rated.
Luxury Picnic at Sunset Cliffs - Your luxury picnic is set up with incredibly comfortable seating and unforgettable views. Every detail that goes into your picnic is designed to be amazing for celebrating a birthday, anniversary, proposal, bachelorette, family gathering, or other special occasion.
Head over to nearby Mission Beach for:
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!
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!
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.
Scuba Diving - Take off on a scuba diving adventure and see what's below. The boat departs from Mission Bay.
Helicopter Tours - Soar above the ocean on a helicopter tour and see what things look like from above.
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.
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 Mission Beach that you can sign up for.
Don't forget you can always enjoy beach games such as volleyball, spike ball, and more when at the beach!
Transportation
Ocean Beach
The best way to get around Ocean 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.
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.
Walking or biking between your vacation rental or hotel to the beach and to restaurants is a great option if you can handle it. Especially if you're staying on the water, as everything you'd need is within easy walking distance, and that's definitely the easiest way to explore that area!
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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