Beaches

Day Two

Start your San Diego adventure the right way — salt air, warm sand, and an ocean that seems to stretch all the way to Japan. From the lively boardwalk at Mission Beach to the sea caves of La Jolla, and the hidden cliffs of Sunset Cliffs, Day 2 covers San Diego's most breathtaking 20-mile stretch of coastline. I'll show you the spots locals actually go — and the parking secrets that make all the difference.

Mission Beach

The heartbeat of San Diego beach culture — a lively 3-mile stretch of boardwalk connecting Mission Bay to Pacific Beach. Rent a cruiser bike, grab a fish taco, and soak up the scene locals have been loving for decades. Go early on weekends to snag parking on Mission Blvd.

Parking Recommendation

3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109

Best Photo Op Spot

The Giant Dipper roller coaster at Belmont Park from the boardwalk — classic San Diego beach shot.

Where to Eat

The Beach House
3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
belmontpark.com

Pacific Beach

PB is where San Diego locals actually spend their weekends — the Crystal Pier, a buzzing restaurant strip on Garnet Ave, and some of the best people-watching in the city. Walk the pier at sunrise before the crowds arrive, then grab breakfast at one of the sidewalk cafés nearby.

Parking Recommendation

4535 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109

Best Photo Op Spot

Crystal Pier at sunrise — the wooden pier with cottages extending over the water is one of the most unique shots in San Diego.

Where to Eat

Breakfast Republic
4465 Mission Blvd., San Diego, CA 92109
breakfastrepublic.com

Other Beaches to Explore

⭐ Local Favorite

Ocean Beach

Located just south of Mission Beach, Ocean Beach is the quieter beach community of San Diego — a more relaxed vibe compared to Pacific Beach and Mission Beach.

Parking Recommendation

4949 Santa Monica Ave., San Diego, CA 92107

Best Photo Op Spot

OB Pier at the end of Newport Ave — the longest concrete pier on the West Coast, great for sunset shots looking back at the city.

Where to Eat

The Holding Company
Rooftop restaurant, bar and live music venue steps from the beach.
5046 Newport Ave, San Diego, CA 92107
theholdingcompanyob.com

Must See

La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove is one of San Diego's most iconic spots. It features a beautiful walkway along the water, heading south. If you're lucky, you can see seals and sea lions soaking up the sun along your walk.

Parking Recommendation

Lot at 1100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla — free 2-hour street parking on Girard Ave is your best bet on weekdays.

Best Photo Op Spot

Perch above the sea caves at Goldfish Point — sea lions basking on the rocks below with turquoise water. Best at golden hour.

Where to Eat

Puesto La Jolla
Best gourmet Mexican tacos!
1026 Wall St, La Jolla, CA 92037
eatpuesto.com

Must See

La Jolla Shores

One of San Diego's finest beaches — a mile of wide, sandy shoreline with calm, gentle waves perfect for swimming, beginner surfing, and kayaking. Kellogg Park borders the beach with grassy picnic areas and a playground. Guided sea cave kayak tours launch right from the shore.

Parking Recommendation

Free lot at Kellogg Park — fills fast on weekends, aim for before 9am. Street parking also available on El Paseo Grande and Vallecitos.

Best Photo Op Spot

Stand at the water's edge looking north toward the Scripps Pier — wide open beach with the pier framing the horizon.

Where to Eat

The Shores Restaurant
8110 Camino del Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037
theshoresrestaurant.com

️ Day 2 Local Tips

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Pacific Beach Parking Secret

Skip the metered spots — use the free lot at 4535 Mission Blvd. Two blocks from Breakfast Republic and the boardwalk. Almost nobody knows about it.

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Ocean Beach Parking Tip

Heading to The Holding Company rooftop? Park free at 4949 Santa Monica Ave — it's a two-minute walk to Newport Ave and the pier.

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Reef-Safe Only at La Jolla

La Jolla Cove is a protected marine preserve. Reef-safe sunscreen is required — rangers do check. Bring some or buy it from the surf shop on Prospect.

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Don't Miss Sunset Cliffs

The locals go to Sunset Cliffs at golden hour — it's San Diego's most dramatic view. Park on Sunset Cliffs Blvd and walk north toward the best overlooks.

Things to Explore

Active

Snorkeling

One of the best ways to explore San Diego's coastline. Rent an e-bike and cruise from Mission Beach all the way up to Pacific Beach and beyond — flat, scenic, and breezy. Rentals available right on the boardwalk.

Get in the Water

Surf Rentals

Pacific Beach and Mission Beach are two of the best spots for beginner surfers in San Diego. Rent a board and wetsuit right on the beach — several shops along Mission Blvd offer hourly and half-day rentals with lessons available.

Book This

Sea Cave Kayak Tour

Paddle into the famous La Jolla sea caves from the beach — no experience needed. La Jolla Kayak runs guided tours daily. This is the single most memorable 2-hour experience in San Diego. Book ahead, it fills fast.