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San Diego Beach Review

Top Beaches in San Diego: List of the Best Beaches Along the San Diego Coast

Updated: Jan 3


san diego beach la jolla

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San Diego boasts a variety of beautiful beaches along its coastline. As we head into the new year, let's explore some of the different beaches along the coast.


Here is a list of some of the most popular beaches in the San Diego area.

  1. Coronado Beach: A wide, sandy beach known for its iconic Hotel del Coronado. See our beach review of Coronado here.

  2. La Jolla Cove: Famous for its picturesque setting, tide pools, and sea caves. See for more information on parking, amenities, activities, waterfront dining, stays, and more here.

  3. Pacific Beach: A lively area with a boardwalk, shops, and a vibrant nightlife scene. See our full comprehensive review of Pacific Beach here.

  4. Mission Beach: Features a classic boardwalk, Belmont Park amusement park, and a lively atmosphere. Be sure to check out our beach review of Mission Beach for more information.

  5. Ocean Beach: A laid-back community with a historic pier and a dog-friendly beach. Take a look at our beach review of Ocean Beach here.

  6. Windansea Beach: Known for its unique rocky coastline and powerful surf. See all there is to know about Windansea Beach here.

  7. Black's Beach: Situated beneath the cliffs of Torrey Pines, known for its stunning scenery and as a popular clothing-optional beach.

  8. Torrey Pines State Beach: Offers hiking trails, unique rock formations, and expansive sandy shores. See our guide to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve here.

  9. Del Mar Beach: A stretch of beach known for its inviting atmosphere and scenic coastal views. See our beach review of Del Mar here.

  10. La Jolla Shores: Family-friendly beach with gentle waves, popular for kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Check out our beach review of La Jolla Shores for more information.

  11. Moonlight State Beach: Located in Encinitas, offering a playground and recreational amenities. See our full beach review here.

  12. Fletcher Cove Beach Park: A small beach in Solana Beach with picnic areas and a playground.

  13. Silver Strand State Beach: A long, narrow beach with camping facilities, located on the Silver Strand peninsula.

  14. Swami's Beach: Famous for its surf break and spiritual history, located in Encinitas.

  15. Imperial Beach: Southernmost beach in California, known for its pier and annual sandcastle competition. Please note due to the Tijuana River, the water here is often contaminated, so be sure to check water quality levels before you go.

  16. Tourmaline Surfing Park: Popular among surfers and located near Pacific Beach.

  17. South Carlsbad State Beach: A scenic beach with coastal bluffs and camping facilities. See for more information on things to do by the coast in Carlsbad here.

  18. Tamarack Beach: A family-friendly beach popular for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. See our full beach review of Carlsbad State Beach here.

  19. Cardiff State Beach: A relaxed beach with coastal bluffs and a popular surfing spot.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there are many more smaller coves and stretches of coastline that make up the diverse beach offerings in the San Diego area. Regardless of what you're looking for, there really is something for everyone along the San Diego coast!


If you're interested in staying in any of these areas check out Expedia and VRBO for available hotels and vacation rentals.

Let us know what your favorite beaches are in the San Diego area!

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