Better known as PB to the locals, Pacific Beach is ideally located between La Jolla to the north and Mission Beach to the south, yet it has a proud identity of its own. This former World War II Navy base emerged in the 1960s as a thriving and popular area complete with a host of bars, restaurants and clubs attracting young professionals and students.
During the daytime the area is very relaxed, but there is always plenty to do on the sand—whether you want to have a game of volleyball, enjoy a picnic and some live music, or lie back and soak up the rays. With food stalls by the beach, as well as pleasant hotels and restaurants, you’re spoilt for choice if you get hungry.
Surf fans should head for the Tourmaline Surfing Park—a great spot with gentle waves which make it perfect for novices. Further to the north you’ll find a supervised swimming area, whilst in Crystal Pier you can go fishing. Or if you’d rather stay on dry land, go biking or rollerblading around the boardwalk.
By night, the area comes alive, with bars and nightclubs offering a great evening out. Or if you’d rather shop till you drop, pay a visit to Garnet Avenue and Mission Boulevard where you’ll find some excellent shops.
Pacific Beach has all the facilities you could possibly need, including toilets and showers along the boardwalk. For that authentic beach experience, build a bonfire in one of the designated fire rings along the shore, though these can be snapped up quickly in summer. If you’re driving here, be aware that parking is limited. Public transport is a good option, with Metropolitan Transit System bus services available to bring you right from downtown San Diego.
