San Diego has some of the finest beaches in the world. For a comprehensive list, go to Best San Diego Beaches.
1) Coronado City Beach: Wide, sandy, resort-style beach was voted one of USA’s best beaches. Ideal for family and kids. One of most romantic beaches in the world. Beautiful views of Las Coronado Island, boats, and Point Loma peninsula. Surf more gentle than at other beaches. Ideal for swimming and walking. Next to Hotel Del Coronado and historic homes with nearby downtown shops and restaurants.
2) Harbor Beach in Oceanside: Widest, sandy beach in the county. Next to harbor. Great for family, romance, walking. Playground, fire rings, overnight camping, nearby dining.
3) Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas: Great family beach. Playground, snack bar, fire rings, large sandy area. Good swimming, boogie boarding, walking. Dining and shops in nearby downtown Encinitas.
4) Carlsbad State Beach: Wide, sandy beach. Great for family and kids. Good swimming, boogie boarding, walking. Next to Carlsbad Seawall, palisades, Frazee Park, hotels, quaint Carlsbad Village.
5) Del Mar City Beach: Resort-style beach, with grassy park, dining and nearby Del Mar Village at south end. Expensive homes line the beach to Dog Beach at north end. Great for family. Good swimming, boogie boarding, and walking.
6) Cardiff State Beach: Campground at north end; tide pools at south end. Great for family. Good swimming, boogie boarding, and walking. Near Cardiff Town Center. Next to Restaurant Row.
7) Torrey Pines State Beach: More secluded, away from urban life. Beautiful, tall Torrey Pines cliffs on south side. Park your camper or RV nearby. No overnight camping. Great for family, walking, or romance. Good swimming, boogie boarding, and walking. Dining a short drive away.
South Mission Beach to North Pacific Beach: Actually 4 beaches. Nearly 4 miles of sandy beaches, paralleled by Oceanfront Boardwalk. Attractions along the way include Belmont Park, Crystal Pier, and Pacific Beach Palisades.
9) La Jolla Shores: Great family beach. Large grassy park with playground. Beautiful view of La Jolla peninsula. Dining nearby. Surf more gentle than at other beaches. Good swimming, boogie boarding, walking, romance. Popular spot for scuba diving.
10) Silver Strand State Beach: Secluded beach away from urban life. Good family beach. Includes overnight campgrounds. Beautiful views of Las Coronado Island, boats, and Point Loma peninsula. Good swimming, boogie boarding and walking.