• Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Cardiff-by-the Sea ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Cardiff-by-the Sea
© Courtesy of antondotsenko - Fotolia.com

2. Coronado Beach ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Beaches
Coronado Beach
© Courtesy of f8grapher - Fotolia.com

3. Ocean Beach

Category: Beaches
Ocean Beach
© Courtesy of ipivorje - Fotolia.com

4. La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove
© Courtesy of amadeustx - Fotolia.com

5. Mission Beach

Category: Beaches
Mission Beach
© Courtesy of f8grapher - Fotolia.com

6. Pacific Beach, San Diego Area

Category: Beaches
Pacific Beach, San Diego Area
© Courtesy of Paul Lemke - Fotolia.com

7. Silver Strand

Silver Strand
© Courtesy of f8grapher - Fotolia.com

8. Solana Beach, San Diego Area

Category: Beaches
Solana Beach, San Diego Area
© Courtesy of pikappa51 - Fotolia.com

9. Imperial Beach

Category: Beaches
Imperial Beach
© Courtesy of superjoseph - Fotolia.com

10. Windansea Beach

Category: Beaches
Windansea Beach
© Courtesy of Sebastien Burel - Fotolia.com

11. Black's Beach

Category: Beaches
Black's Beach
© Brandon/stock.adobe.com

12. Del Mar City Beach

Category: Beaches
Del Mar City Beach
© Unwind/stock.adobe.com

13. Tourmaline Surf Park

Tours
Tourmaline Surf Park
© pumppump/stock.adobe.com

14. San Onofre State Beach

Category: Beaches
San Onofre State Beach
© Adrienne/stock.adobe.com

15. Torrey Pines State Beach

Category: Beaches
Torrey Pines State Beach
© Ben Velazquez/stock.adobe.com

16. Encinitas Beaches

Category: Beaches
Encinitas Beaches
© marcel/stock.adobe.com

17. Leucadia State Beach

Category: Beaches
Leucadia State Beach
© Chaithanya/stock.adobe.com

Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:

From rocky coasts to beautiful stretches of crisp white sand, San Diego has something to offer for every beach lover. The area boasts a rich history tied into the surfing culture that grew up in the 1960’s and is still growing today. Start your day with a breakfast at one of these great locations. Those wishing to explore the waters of San Diego will find a beautiful variety of fish and sea birds while they snorkel, dive, or take a scenic boat cruise. Families and visitors of all ages can find a variety of fun and relaxing activities to do at any number of San Diego beaches on their day trip.

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