Whether you’re a California native or if you’re staying in Pacific Beach vacation rentals for the first time, you can never be bored in this stunning beach town. It can be overwhelming finding things to do in Pacific Beach if you aren’t from the area, but thanks to this exclusive guide featuring the top 8 attractions in Pacific Beach, you and your family can enjoy the energetic atmosphere like a local.
1. Take a Stroll along the Pacific Beach Boardwalk
What’s a beach town without an oceanfront boardwalk? Spanning from Mission Beach all the way up to North Pacific Beach, this 3.2-mile boardwalk provides easy access to boutiques, restaurants, cafes, bars, arcades, and more. If you’re new to Pacific Beach, the Pacific Beach Boardwalk is a great place to start to get a feel for the area and experience the joys of pacific beach living. There is even the option to rent a beach cruiser if you love bike riding.
Whether you’re bringing the kids along or seeking an adult-only night on the town, Pacific Beach Boardwalk is a must-visit.
2. Shred some Waves at Tourmaline Surfing Park Beach
Known as a surfers’ mecca in the San Diego area, Tourmaline Surf Park Beach is the perfect stop for novice surfers searching for the ideal surf spot to practice their craft. If you’re lodging with San Diego vacation rentals, taking a trip out to Tourmaline is a stop you can’t miss. The slow-rolling waves are incredible in this hotspot for surfing in San Diego, perfect for beachside observers and for those who want to hit the waves themselves.
Be warned – this popular beach is for surfing only, so if you’re hoping to swim and splash in the waves, check out some of the other stunning shorelines in the Pacific Beach area.
3. Splash Around at North Pacific Beach
Just north of the Crystal pier and south of Tourmaline Beach, you’ll find the beautiful North Pacific Beach, a swim-friendly spot for families to enjoy the soft white sand and cool Pacific waters. This unique beach spot sits below a series of bluffs that shelters the beach from high winds, so be sure to take advantage of North Pacific Beach if you’re a fan of sunbathing.
There is plenty of parking and easy beach access, but we recommend arriving early because this popular spot can get crowded!
4. Explore Historic Crystal Pier
One of our favorite family-friendly locations in North Pacific Beach is the historic Crystal Pier, a structure that has brought life to Pacific Beach since being built in 1927. Fun fact: Crystal Pier was originally known as “Pickering’s Pleasure Pier,” named after Los Angeles builder Ernest Pickering who developed the attraction to lure people to the sunny coasts.
Check out the hype for yourself and learn about how Crystal Pier influenced the rise in popularity of Pacific Beach.
5. Satisfy your Sweet Tooth at The Baked Bear
You don’t have to bring the kids along as an excuse to visit The Baked Bear. This popular dessert spot offers a variety of dessert menu options, but they specialize in creating gourmet ice cream sandwiches created custom to your liking.
After hours of splashing in the surf, playing in the sand, and basking in the San Diego sun, taking a bite of this sweet treat is the perfect way to cool down.
6. Eat Breakfast Like a Local
Serving San Diego locals since 1991, Kono’s Surf Club Café is the best-undisputed breakfast spot in the Pacific Beach area. Located directly across the boardwalk from Crystal Pier, this affordable yet bustling breakfast hub is perfect for a brunch date or family outing. This is another hotspot where you can expect a wait, but don’t worry – you’ll be entertained by the many sights to see on the Boardwalk as you wait in line!
7. Sip in Style at Pacific Beach Ale House
For all the brewery lovers out there, carve a few hours out of your schedule to visit the award-winning Pacific Beach Ale House and enjoy their wide selection of seasonal craft beers and cocktails that perfectly complement their locally sourced menu. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to the area, PB Alehouse welcomes all to enjoy the rooftop views of the Pacific Ocean while sipping on a vibrant ale – what better way is there to relax?
8. Caffeinate like a Californian
If your goal is to balance work and play while visiting Pacific Beach, there are plenty of opportunities to boost your productivity while still embracing the dreamy location. For a change of scenery from remote work stays at your Pacific Beach rental, grab a cup of coffee or tea at one of our favorite Pacific Beach cafés and enjoy the best of both worlds.
Not sure which coffee shop to choose? Here are five of our favorites:
No matter which café you choose, you truly can’t go wrong with any of these options as you romanticize your Pacific Beach remote work experience.
Whether it is your first time visiting the sunny coast of California or your tenth, there are virtually limitless attractions and fun things to do in Pacific Beach for couples, friends, families, and even solo travelers. Now that you’ve compiled your Pacific Beach to-do list, what are you waiting for? Book your visit with Pacific Beach Luxury Rentals and create memories that will last a lifetime as you vacation in paradise at one of the top places to stay in Pacific Beach.