Best San Diego Beaches From North to South

If you’re looking to hit the beach for a day in San Diego, you have quite a few options to choose from. Our oceanside city features a number of beach offerings, ranging from stretches of soft sand to rocky cliffs and hidden coves. From north to south, we’ve outlined the best beaches in San Diego to help you get the most of this gorgeous region.

Del Mar City Beach North

Starting at the end of 15th street, Del Mar City Beach North is located in a central part of town and close to shops, restaurants, and more. Walk along the beach and you’ll discover Del Mar’s Dog Beach, a dog-friendly haven for your furry friend. This family-friendly spot is perfect for a blissful beach day in northern San Diego.

Location: 19 miles from the hotel

La Jolla Cove

A popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking, La Jolla Cove is part of the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park. Surfboards, boogie boards, and inflatable devices are not permitted in order to protect the wildlife below. La Jolla Cove is a popular choice for families with small children, as the cove protects the intimate beach from big waves. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of some sea lions basking in the sun on the rocks above the sand.

Location: 11 miles from the hotel

Pacific Beach

A popular San Diego destination for both locals and tourists, Pacific Beach offers soft sands, good waves, and a number of restaurants, shops, and amenities nearby. After cooling off in the water and soaking up some sun, explore Garnet Avenue’s popular restaurants, unique shops, and casual bars.

Location: 8 miles from the hotel

Mission Beach

Similar to Pacific Beach, Mission Beach is one of the most popular beaches in San Diego. Filled with families enjoying a lovely day out, this stretch of sand has lifeguard towers, restrooms, showers, and more. Once you’re done spending time in the water, ride the rollercoaster and play some carnival games at Belmont Park.

Location: 6 miles from the hotel

Ocean Beach

Travel a little more south and you’ll find Ocean Beach, a popular spot for surfers and locals looking to get away from the crowds. Ocean Beach offers a little more space to stretch out in, making for a relaxing day at the shore. Bring your furry friend and let them run around in the waves at the dog-friendly section.

Location: 5 miles from the hotel

Coronado Beach

Head to Coronado Island to visit Coronado Central Beach, the most noteworthy beach in Coronado and consistently voted one of the best beaches in America. A 1.5-mile stretch running adjacent to Ocean Boulevard and ending at the Hotel Del Coronado, Coronado Beach is ideal for swimmers, sunbathers, and beachcombers. The beach is flat and wide, making it easy to find the perfect spot in the sand. Restrooms and showers are available nearby, along with lifeguard towers, firepits, volleyball courts, and more.

Location: 12 miles from the hotel