Pacific Beach, California Travel Guide:
The Top 5 Can't-Miss Things To Do and See in Pacific Beach, California
Pacific Beach might be your place if you want a vibrant beach scene. People from all over Southern California flock here to sun, surf, dine and hit the clubs. While, at times, the beach vibe has had the reputation of being plastered with young college kids, there are still lots of things to do if you spend a few days on a little getaway in the area.
Pacific Beach is a neighborhood of San Diego bordered by Mission Beach to the south and La Jolla to the north. In the past, it was a prime spot for college students on Spring Break, with a vibrant nightclub scene. Over the last several years, the PB (as locals refer to it) has become home to a more family-friendly environment.
So what is there to do in Pacific Beach if you aren’t into the “party” scene? Well, we are glad you asked.
Where Should I Stay In Pacific Beach?
If you are looking for a place to stay, there are many hotels within walking distance of the beach with very reasonable family rates.
Tower23 is a suite hotel with a modern beach vibe, a wonderful patio area, and a great beach area just a few steps from the sand. It is named for the lifeguard tower located just below the hotel. Enjoy the breakfast in your room (it’s delicious).
A Traveler’s Choice award winner, The Pacific Terrace Hotel is an upscale hotel with beachfront rooms that are elegant and stylish. The rich wood furniture reminds an old-fashioned lodge with jacuzzis and complete suites. The pool area is lovely and overlooks the beach. If you have the chance, this is a beautiful hotel for a vacation, to relax with some spa time, and breathe in the fresh, saltwater air.
What Should I See and Do in Pacific Beach?
Here is a list of the top five things to see and do in Pacific Beach. From ice cream to pizza to cruising down the Boardwalk, there is something for everyone:
Soak Up Some Sun on the Beach
Pacific Beach is a three-and-a-half-mile stretch of sand that runs from the Crystal Pier to Pacific Beach Drive. It is a popular beach, with many neighborhood people and other San Diego residents flocking to lay down their towels and beach chairs. While the beach can be crowded during the summer months of July and August, it is still a great place to put on sunscreen and soak up some rays. There are plenty of places to rent a canopy, sand umbrella, or even a pair of bikes to ride the boardwalk.
If your family wants something less active, try North Beach (just head past Crystal Pier), which is an excellent beach for family activities. The waves are a bit more subdued, but the area has several lifeguards to ensure everyone’s safety. Rent a boogie board or bring your own. There are many little eateries and dining options for snacks or lunch.
Learn to Hang 10 at Surf School
If you have thought about learning how to balance on a board and ride the waves, now is your chance at San Diego Surf School. The surf school is located at the Northern edge of Pacific Beach on Surf Park. The lessons are about 90 minutes long and include all the equipment you might need. The company also offers surfing retreats where larger groups can spend the day catching waves and loving their time experiencing the ocean in a way they might have before. The waves are easy to moderate, so even experienced surfers can find some waves to bring a smile to their faces.
Browse the Boardwalk
Pacific Beach has one of the best boardwalks on the West Coast. Rent a bike or a small motorcar and head out. Be sure to keep to the right and take your time (the Boardwalk can have a bunch of people walking on it, so slow down, enjoy the sights and take everything in). There are lots of small shops and boutiques to kill the hours or find a bench to people watch for a bit.
While you are on your walk, stop by Crystal Pier, which has been open since the late ‘20s. This is an iconic pier where you can fish right off the dock (don’t worry, a couple of places will rent you a pole, and you don't need a license). Just head to the end of Garnett Ave, walk past the cottages, and out toward the end of the pier. The pier stretches out over the water; you might even spot a grey whale surfacing for air on certain days.
Grab A Bite to Eat At Some of the Best Seaside Dining Anywhere
If you are a dining foodie, there are some great places to eat in Pacific Beach. Whether it is a beautifully plated seared sea scallops or an Asian fusion restaurant that has won award after award, you will find it here. Here are a couple of our favorites.
JRDN
is a beautiful Asian fusion restaurant with a hip seaside vibe. Located in the Tower23 hotel and open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, there are many choices. Enjoy some Ahi Poke Nachos, sushi with the vibrant sea flavors, and wash it down with a mouthwatering salt-rimmed margarita. Chef Stephen Gage has lent his culinary hand to every dish on the menu and continues to impress locals and visitors with his eclectic menu offerings.JRDN is quickly becoming the best place to dine on the beach in San Diego.
Ambrogio15
Ambrogio15 is an Italian restaurant with some of the best pizza offerings on the planet. Using dough recipes from the home country in the Milan region of Italy. The restaurant has a straightforward modern decor, but with cheese plates and focaccia, and each is paired with some of the most delicate bio-organic wines. The place is almost always busy, so you will want to make reservations.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
If you remember eating a perfect ice cream sandwich when you were younger, this place custom makes them. With various locations across the country, the Baked Bear is a place with a simple philosophy, to let you enjoy an ice cream sandwich with your favorite cookie, filled with your favorite flavor of ice cream and topped with your choice of syrup, sprinkles, or nuts, You design it, tell them to warm it up, and then dive into lots of wonderful delicious gooeyness. Located a couple of blocks into town off the Crystal Pier (just walk down Garnett and take a left on Mission).
What if I have a Group of People?
Many groups have found that a sedan or limo service can be a great way to get around San Diego. If you are heading to Petco Park or taking a day trip to explore the Coast, think about renting a charter bus for the day. The San Diego Charter Bus folks can assist you with rates and times and even suggest what sights to see.
A limo is also a great choice if you are flying into San Diego and need transportation to your hotel. They can pick you up from the airport and transport you to your vacation spot. Just call the limousine service to arrange a pickup.
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