Pacific Beach
Pacific Beach in San Diego is a young beach town with the attraction of the surf and sand by day and the lure of bars and restaurants by night. Located south of La Jolla and north of Mission Beach, “PB” has a hopping nightlife scene that features live music, dancing, happy hours galore, craft beers, and lots of casual dining options that are easy on the wallet and casual in every way. You’ll find everything from the hip and trendy JRDN Lounge and Raw Bar to the low-key dive bar atmosphere at Cass Street Bar and Grill and everything in between. Pacific Beach has some of the finest seafood and a great mix of pub fare, taco stands, and Mexican and Asian choices for hungry visitors.
Like most coastal San Diego destinations, Pacific Beach is all about the beaches! Surfers head to Tourmaline Beach for great longboarding action, while families are better suited for the wide sandy stretches and calm waves in North Pacific Beach.
Another beach focal point is the Ocean Front Boardwalk, lined with shops and restaurants, stretching more than three miles along Pacific Beach’s oceanfront. It’s always crowded and attracts an eclectic mix of young beachgoers, skateboarders, joggers, families, buskers, and locals who just love the “hang out” vibe. If you hit the boardwalk, be sure to spend time on Crystal Pier, a historic landmark built in 1927 featuring cottages for rent at the beachside base of the pier.
Garnet Avenue is another focal point in Pacific Beach, packed with boutiques that sell everything from beach souvenirs to trendy clothing. Also at Garnet Avenue also hosts a farmer’s market on Tuesdays from 2 pm until 6:30 pm. Visitors can source locally grown produce, flowers, hot food, and more.
Pacific Beach is also unique in that it has two beachfront options. Many people also head for the calm waters of Mission Bay on the inland side of Pacific Beach. Fanuel Park and Kate Sessions Park are favorites for picnics, bike rides, walking your dogs, or just taking in breathtaking views that are among the best in San Diego.
As it is with most beach communities, parking is usually at a premium in Pacific Beach, Parking is limited to street parking with a few paid parking lots. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to guarantee a space. Also, remember that alcohol is prohibited on the beach and boardwalk when you come.
Public restrooms and showers available to the public are located at the lifeguard station at Grand Avenue and between the boardwalk and Mission Boulevard.
