Romantic Beach Getaways in San Diego
San Diego is a haven for couples seeking a romantic escape, with its golden beaches, stunning sunsets, and intimate coastal experiences.
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Overall Score: 5.3/10
Summary
Overall, Windansea Beach gets a score of 5.3/10. It is a nice place to visit if you're looking to take in the ocean in a nice, calm area and enjoy the water being several different shades of blue. The overall rating was brought down by the lack of amenities and small beach space available resulting in crowdedness. However, the beach is truly stunning, and is a nice place to sit and watch the waves, go for a quick dip, or walk along the coastline.
Notable Mention
Please note that there are many different factors coming into play as the ocean conditions such as tides and waves can greatly affect the experience here. Overall, Windansea Beach is a nice area to visit to take in beautiful views of the ocean.
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
For parking at Windansea Beach, there is residential street parking available. This is mainly the only option, other than about 15 parking spots along Neptune Pl., right against the water, in the north part of Windansea beach. However, these spots will typically fill extremely quickly, especially during peak or busy times.
The closest street parking can be found from the areas between Palomar Avenue to Fern Glen and beyond, as these streets cover the width of the beach and run directly into it.
If there isn't parking on any of the streets that run directly into Windansea Beach, then you can head into the residential area south of Palomar Avenue and look for parking on Camino De La Costa or the streets that run parallel and perpendicular to Camino De La Costa. You should be able to find parking in this neighborhood; it's more just a matter of how far of a walk it might be to the beach, but you should be able to find parking within a 15-20 minute walk. If you do end up having to walk a mile or so to the beach from your parking spot, at least it'll be a pleasant walk through a nice neighborhood with some views of the ocean along the way as well.
Something important to note is that a lot of the street parking here, depending on where your spot is, is on roads with a somewhat steep incline. If you have any difficulty walking up or down an incline, I'd suggest visiting this beach earlier in the morning or at times where it won't be as busy, to make it easier to get a parking spot on one of the streets that doesn't have an incline.
Rating = 6/10 - There will typically be street parking available within a 15-20 minute walk of the beach even during busy times, giving it a slightly above average rating.
Crowds
This is a popular beach for people to visit, and it is visited by a lot of young kids, teenagers, and families. During nice days throughout the summer, or during spring break, holidays, and other busy times, don't expect to have a lot of space to yourself on this beach.
Due to the layout with the rocks, and it being a somewhat narrow beach, there isn't a lot of beach space available. Since there's not a lot of space, during busy times, everyone's towels and beach setups will be closer together than what you'd typically see on other beaches throughout the San Diego area.
However, when the beach is crowded, people can always set up their beach gear on the rocks and enjoy the beach from there.
The crowds at the beach also become a problem during high tides, so setting up on the rocks is the best bet in this instance. However, the rocks can also become crowded.
There are stretches of the beach that are the wider than others, and these will often be the areas that are most crowded as well. There are so many different pockets of sand in between the rocks throughout the beach, so you might be able to find an area that isn't crowded in one of these pockets. However, during busy times, every little one of those pockets of sand often has multiple groups of people in it, as it's a popular beach.
Rating = 4/10 - It can be difficult to find space to yourself on this beach, especially during high tides and busy times, giving a slightly less than average rating.
Amenities
There aren't really any amenities available at this beach. There aren't public restrooms, showers, drinking fountains, etc. There also aren't any restaurants, shops, or hotels next to the beach either. Keep in mind that the beach is surrounded by a residential area, so there aren't amenities to the public right off the beach that are available.
However, there are benches along the top of the rocks/bluffs overlooking the water, as well as a sidewalk that runs parallel to the shore, which can be nice for a stroll.
Despite there not being amenities next to the beach, there are shops, restaurants, and cafes within about a half mile of the beach off of La Jolla Blvd. If you are looking for food or anything in that regard, you can access it in about a 10 minute walk from the beach.
Rating = 2/10 -There aren't any amenities next to the beach, but there are restaurants about a half mile away.
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.
Additionally, the area is known to have strong currents. Also, keep in mind there are also a lot of rocks in the water due to the reef.
***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 = 7/10 - This beach is typically safe, and has lifeguards on duty though out.
Beach Cleanliness
When the beach is visible and showing, it is often clean and has nice quality sand.
The sand is your typical plush, white sand, and there typically isn't much litter on this beach.
Overall, there aren't typically any concerns about the cleanliness or quality of sand here.
Rating = 7/10 - The beach cleanliness is rated well and doesn't raise any concerns here.
Water Quality
The Water Quality at Windansea 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 = 7/10 - Typically clean, unless there is a storm.
Activities
There aren’t many activities available to do here other than your typical beach and water activities.
At this beach, with conditions permitting: swimming, surfing, boogie boarding, and stand up paddle boarding are often seen here. Due to the reef, there are often a lot of people surfing at the break off of the street Playa Del Norte.
Rating = 5/10 - Activities receive an average rating as there's less available to do both in the water and on the beach compared to other beaches throughout the San Diego area, and the conditions greatly affect what is feasible, but there are still activities that can be enjoyed.
Windansea 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 by Windansea Beach.
Check out the best beachfront accommodation and ocean views by Windansea Beach!
See all the waterfront dining options available to you and pick where in La Jolla Village you want to eat, grab drinks, and see the blue water!
Look at all the activities available in La Jolla and enjoy the ocean by trying something new or doing your favorite activity!
Accommodation
Windansea Beach
Windansea Beach has limited options available for hotels right next to the beach, but it does have vacation rentals available. See below for some of the different options near this area.
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. is a great choice for staying near Windansea Beach, and there are typically options available close by. 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
There aren't any hotels next to Windansea Beach or with views of Windansea Beach, so see below for a list of hotels with ocean views in nearby La Jolla Village, which is less than 2 miles away.
La Jolla Cove Hotel and Suites - Overlooking the picturesque La Jolla Cove, the La Jolla Cove Hotel and Suites offers guests an intimate coastal retreat with stunning ocean views. Amenities include complimentary continental breakfast, an oceanfront heated pool and spa, beach chair and umbrella rentals, and easy access to the shops and restaurants of La Jolla Village.
La Valencia Hotel - La Valencia Hotel radiates historic charm with its iconic pink exterior and Mediterranean-inspired architecture. Guests can enjoy rooms with ocean views, an oceanfront restaurant and bar, as well as amenities such as an outdoor heated pool, a full-service spa, and live entertainment at the historic La Sala Lounge.
Pantai Inn- Pantai Inn provides a serene oasis overlooking the Pacific Ocean and La Jolla Cove. Amenities include a lush courtyard garden, complimentary gourmet breakfast served in a charming dining room, beach gear rentals, and personalized concierge services to ensure a memorable stay.
Cormorant Boutique Hotel- Nestled in the heart of La Jolla Village, the Cormorant Boutique Hotel offers boutique accommodations with each room having ocean or village views. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, relax on the rooftop terrace with panoramic ocean vistas, and explore the nearby boutiques, galleries, and restaurants of downtown La Jolla.
Grand Colonial- Located steps away from La Jolla Cove, the Grand Colonial Hotel offers guests a luxurious retreat with breathtaking ocean views and upscale amenities. Amenities include a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, a fitness center, complimentary continental breakfast, and personalized concierge services to enhance your stay.
There are other hotels located near Windansea Beach that are off of La Jolla Blvd., 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
Windansea Beach
Windansea Beach doesn't have waterfront dining options available to choose from, but there are plenty of option in nearby La Jolla Village 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
See below for a list of oceanfront dining available close to Windansea Beach in La Jolla Village.
George's at the Cove - Situated atop a cliff overlooking the ocean, George's at the Cove offers stunning views and is open for lunch and dinner. Diners can savor contemporary American cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients while enjoying panoramic vistas of the Pacific.
Brockton Villa - Perched on the cliffs near La Jolla Cove, Brockton Villa provides ocean views and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests can indulge in coastal-inspired dishes and signature cocktails while admiring the scenic beauty of the coastline.
Eddie V's Prime Seafood - Located near La Jolla Cove, Eddie V's Prime Seafood boasts ocean views and is open for dinner. Guests can indulge in prime seafood dishes and steaks in a sophisticated atmosphere with panoramic vistas of the water.
Duke's - With its beachfront location near La Jolla Cove, Duke's offers ocean views and is open for lunch and dinner. Diners can experience Hawaiian-inspired cuisine featuring fresh seafood and island flavors while enjoying the sights and sounds of the ocean.
The Mediterranean Room - Overlooking the water near La Jolla Cove, The Mediterranean Room offers ocean views and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests can savor Mediterranean-inspired dishes paired with fine wines in an elegant setting with breathtaking views of the coastline.
Cody's - Located near La Jolla Cove, Cody's offers ocean views and is open for breakfast and lunch. Guests can enjoy a casual dining experience with fresh seafood dishes and classic American fare while soaking in the coastal ambiance.
Blue Ocean / Harumama - Situated near La Jolla Cove, Blue Ocean / Harumama offers water views and is open for lunch and dinner. Diners can enjoy a unique fusion of Japanese and Italian cuisine in a vibrant setting with coastal vistas.
Cov House - With its waterfront location near La Jolla Cove, Cove House offers ocean views and is open for lunch and dinner. Guests can savor fresh seafood and California-inspired dishes while taking in the serene beauty of the coastline.
Jose's Courtroom - Nestled near La Jolla Cove, Jose's Courtroom features water views and is open for lunch and dinner. Diners can enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine and handcrafted margaritas in a relaxed setting with glimpses of the ocean.
Olive and Basil Courtroom - Located with water views near La Jolla Cove, Olive and Basil Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. Guests can savor Italian-inspired dishes made with fresh ingredients while enjoying scenic views of the waterfront.
There are several other restaurants and cafes located near Windansea Beach off of La Jolla Blvd., but I only included the ones offering views of the water in La Jolla Village. There are also many places in La Jolla Village that offer dining, but not with ocean views.
Activities & Tours
Windansea Beach
Windansea Beach has limited activities available to do in and near the water. See below for a list of activities available near the ocean throughout other parts of La Jolla.
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
Head Over to nearby La Jolla Cove/La Jolla Village for:
La Jolla Sea Cave and Kayak Tour - Explore the Seven Sea Caves on a kayak tour, and a giant kelp forest inhabited by wildlife like otters, harbor seals, and sea lions. Use of all kayaking equipment is included; no kayaking experience is necessary.
Snorkel Rental - Explore the beautiful waters off the La Jolla coast and rent a snorkel package with a wetsuit included for your convenience.
La Jolla Walking Tour - Embark on a 1.5 hour walking tour of La Jolla where much of the tour is spent by the ocean and you'll also see animals that live year round on the shores of La Jolla. You'll also explore a hidden cave overlooking the ocean, boutiques and hotels, and the best ice cream shop in California. There's also this historic walking tour available.
E-Bike Tour- Visit La Jolla and ride to the summit of Mount Soledad with a 2.5-hour guided tour by electric bike. Take in sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean from Soledad, then steer back to the water’s edge to explore the glamorous community’s most iconic spots. There's also this e-bike tour.
La Jolla Segway Tour - This scenery-packed Segway tour of San Diego's La Jolla neighborhood begins at Ellen Browning Scripps Park, where you'll set out to explore the hilly, oceanfront community of La Jolla — nicknamed 'The Jewel of San Diego.'
La Jolla Food & Drink Walking Tour - The Sip, Savor and Sea Tour offers guests an incredible food and drink tasting tour of one of the most beautiful beachside areas of San Diego.
Private La Jolla Tour by Sidecar - Enjoy a unique perspective as you cruise around La Jolla in style on a motorcycle sidecar tour with a private driver and guide. See why La Jolla is called the “Jewel,” with stops at Torrey Pines, La Jolla Cove, and La Jolla Shores Park, or enjoy a customized itinerary.
A Seaside Stroll: La Jolla's Hidden Treasures Self-Guided Tour - Join a self-guided tour through La Jolla's hidden treasures, where every step reveals a new story in this iconic coastal paradise. From secret sea caves to famous residents, this adventure offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and excitement.
Professional Beachfront Picnics - Want to have a romantic lunch or dinner? How about a group picnic with friends at sunset where everything is taken care of for you? Enjoy a luxurious picnic overlooking the La Jolla coastline.
Head over to nearby La Jolla Shores for:
Bonfires - Nothing better than enjoying a bonfire on the beach after the sun goes down to end the day! There are firepits on the beach, and there are several companies that will set everything up for you and all you'll have to do is show up.
Beach Yoga Session - Enjoy a relaxing yoga session on the beach where you can take in views of the Pacific and hear the sound of waves crashing throughout.
Surf Lessons - many companies offer private and group surf lessons, so you don't have to brave the water alone if interested in catching some waves!
Don't forget you can always enjoy beach games such as volleyball, spike ball, and more when at the beach!
Transportation
Windansea Beach
The best way to get around La Jolla and Windansea 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 in Windansea or near La Jolla Village, 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 other parts of La Jolla, downtown, etc., you might have to pay to park if it is crowded.
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