Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach or OB, is a liberal, hippie, middle-class beach community that loves dogs and isn’t too fond of big businesses – locals have been known to protest against chains like Starbucks, so you won’t find any franchise type companies here. The beach community offers a long fishing pier, tons of beach activities and a dog beach for canines to run freely. Activities include swimming, volleyball, surfing or picnicking. Some interesting characters reside at the beach, plus some antique stores, assorted shops, surf shops and restaurants along Newport Avenue. Ocean Beach features a laid-back culture and atmosphere more than any other San Diego beach community. Website

There are tide pools south of pier. A concrete walkway at the south end of the pool serves as a perfect romantic stroll for couples or a casual walk.

There is a separate swim and surf zones, and the beach has lifeguards, restrooms, showers and has disabled access.

Parking

Public lots are at the end of Voltaire Street, Santa Monica Avenue and Newport Avenue. Street parking is scarce on summer weekends.

Directions

Take I-8 West until it ends and turns into Sunset Cliffs Boulevard and continue west. Take a right on Narragansett to head directly towards the pier.

Tips

Ocean Beach is still accessible on peak visitor days, but it’s still good to arrive early. Check out “The Black”, a hippie-era, tie-dye, smoke shop on Newport Avenue which offers an extreme mix of gifts, posters and clothing to carry on the 60′s. Newport Avenue has many shopping opportunities and restaurant picks.

Nearby Attractions:

San Diego River Channel – Beginners can start at the parking lot located at the south of Ocean Beach, near Dog Beach. A paved bike path runs east from the parking lot along the River Channel and provides several miles of a nice easy ride for families and small kids.

Point Loma/Cabrillo National Monument – Intermediate and Advanced Riders looking for a longer ride can start near Sunset Cliffs or Ocean Beach. Ride to Sunset Cliffs Boulevard South until Point Loma or Novara Street. Turn left and ride up a hill until you intersect Catalina Boulevard, where you’ll turn right. Catalina Boulevard heads south up the hill toward Cabrillo National Monument. Continue past the gate and to the top of the mountain. There are some spectacular views, exhibits and historical buildings. For an additional ride, take the road that head down to the tide pools to explore some sea life.