Guide to San Diego Beaches -

The best part about living in San Diego? We can go to the beaches well into the fall. It doesn’t start getting cold here until mid- November so there’s still plenty of beach days in our future.

Now for the toughest part, how do you decide what beach to go to?

There’s so many beaches to choose from and they all offer something different and I put together a guide to help plan your beach day at some of our favorite San Diego beaches.

Studio Freyja, San Diego Family Photographer

Coronado

I love going to Coronado because it’s close to home for us. It’s a big beach with plenty of space but it is also a hot spot for tourists. Not only does the Hotel Del attract a ton of people, but the island has popular dining and shops that also bring crowds. Beginning of summer and early fall will bring less crowds to the beach. Coronado is one of my favorite spots for boogie boarding and also my top pick for just a quick trip to the ocean. If you are visiting San Diego, Coronado is a must-see during your stay.

Parking: Street or at the Hotel Del (for a fee)

Torrey Pines

Torrey Pines is so gorgeous. The way the cliffs sit near the water- it brings a really unique view of the ocean. Torrey Pines also offers an amazing hiking trail on those cliffs where you can catch a glimpse of the ocean on your way up/down. If you are looking to get your fitness on before lounging at the beach, Torrey Pines is your destination.

Parking: Parking lot (for a fee) or street parking

Sunset Cliffs

Sunset Cliffs offers some of the most beautiful views of the ocean. Be prepared to “hike” down the cliffs to gain access to the beach. I spent a lot of time at Sunset Cliffs during my younger days (I event went cliff diving but NOT legal and NOT recommended) but would not recommend taking small children as it can be a bit of a challenge. This beach is a perfect spot to catch the sunset, or for a day date.

Parking: Parking lot (south side) and street

La Jolla Shores

If you are looking to see some wildlife, La Jolla Shores is a great spot for that. I have seen sea lions on multiple occasions. In fact, they don’t live too far from here and you can find them lounging on rocks nearby at The Cove. You’ll have to get adjusted to the smell if there are sea life nearby. This is also a big surfing spot for locals. This is a good pick if you are planning a full beach day as there are volleyball nets and bathrooms easily accessible.

Parking: Parking lot and street

Windansea

This is a top pick for the locals. Here you will find less crowds at the beach but parking can be a bit of a challenge. I love this beach because you get a mix of sand, surf and more. When the tide is low, you can walk down on the rocks and find crabs and other sea creatures. The girls love this beach as they can climb the rocks and have some fun in the ocean too.

Parking: Street (plan accordingly)

Marine Street

Another hot spot for locals. Here you will find locals playing volleyball, surfing and more. This is a fun beach to hang out all day and enjoy the views. Marine Street has a little bit of something for everyone.

Parking: Street (plan accordingly)

Other tips to plan your beach day:

Less is more when packing for the beach. I pack all of our stuff in one beach bag and a small cooler. If Danny is coming along, I’ll bring a small pop up tent.

Leave a pair of clean clothes and towels in the car. Everything we take with us to the beach ends up sandy so I always leave a clean change of clothes in the car for the ride home.

Pro tip- Leave a gallon of water in the car to rinse off after your done at the beach. Trust me this is such a life saver