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Enjoy these San Diego beaches with the most stunning coastal views that will leave you speechless!
2021-10-22
It’s known as America’s Finest City and if you have ever been here, you probably will agree! San Diego may be the most beautiful place on earth. I can say that things are not always perfect here, but it is pretty darn close. It’s a haven for surfers and beach goers alike all while embracing the California lifestyle to the max. This is the place where flip-flops are considered business casual. You will find the laid back lifestyle contagious when you are here.
Some of the most significant features of San Diego are its beaches and coastal areas. So I ventured out to see and enjoy these spectacular beaches in San Diego on a regular basis. My goal was to compare the distinct characteristics of each and break down why these beaches are so amazing.
Torrey Pines beach area
The area of Torrey Pines is located north of La Jolla and south of Del Mar. Torrey Pines State Beach is one of interesting qualities. In addition to being a natural preserve park and all the hiking trails here, Torrey Pines has extraordinary geology along its cliff side beach. This geological make up include the following:
Delmar Formation
Torrey Sandstone
Ardath Sale
Scripps Formation
These rock formation layers are all from middle Eocene age which is around 49 to 45 million years old. Incredible!
Torrey Pines hiking trail is a 2.3-mile loop trail takes you through natural coastal scrub, chaparral, Torrey Pine Woodland, and salt marsh. You will soon approach a ladder like stairway path down to the beach. As you hike the Torrey Pines trail, remember to take notice of the amazing cliff side and ocean views, birds, and beautiful wild flowers.
There is a parking lot where a fee is collected, however, free parking along the road side which is North Torrey Pines Road / So. Camino Del Mar if you can find an open spot. Explore the entire area and visit Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.
La Jolla Cove | La Jolla Shores
This quintessential charming coastal community of La Jolla is located in San Diego County. It might be one of the most beautiful beach towns I’ve ever seen. This small beach community isn’t your typical little beach town. The thing that makes this area unique is that you can enjoy the beach and shoreline, then take a walk across the street and browse several upscale art galleries and boutiques.
After enjoying a day at the beach, you can make your way up the street and enjoy delicious dining with an ocean view. One of the most special features of this beach area are the sea lions. Spend some time observing the seals up close and personal. The coastal beach walk is amazing! Now you will see why San Diego calls La Jolla, Jewel By The Sea.
The historic Hotel Del Coronado and Coronado beach
Known as the Crown City and a favorite on Trip Adviser, Coronado features one of the prettiest beaches in town! Also home to the iconic Hotel Del Coronado, of which you can schedule tours and learn more about this historical place. With its sparkling beach sand and cresting waves, Coronado offers endless possibilities for fun! You will soon know why this beach is named one of the top beaches for families by this vacation critic.
Pacific Beach
I have many fun memories of when I was hanging out at PB, as the locals call it, during my younger days here. I’ve spent many weekends soaking in the sun, playing volleyball, and enjoying a fruity beverage on this beach. It is known for its parties and as a spring break destination. There are, however; many activities to do here that include more of a quiet experience. Check out these ideas: :
Enjoy an early morning treat at Kono’s Surf Club Café; breakfast is served all day.
Bike or walk along the Pacific Beach Boardwalk
Watch the sunset on Crystal Pier
Enjoy a beer at PB Shore Club- yummy sandwiches too!
Grab a tasty ice cream treat at Baked Bear. (You’re welcome).
Take a short detour over to Mission Beach and enjoy Belmont Park! Take a roller coaster ride, browse the shops, and indulge in some tasty treats!
Moonlight State Beach, Encinitas
I love the drive to visit the beach in Encinitas, the gorgeous Moonlight State Beach area. One of top hangouts for surfers, but also can have some uninvited lingering sea life such as sharks.
You might ask why do they call it Moonlight State Beach? During the days in the early 1900s’ locals would come to the beach area and enjoy a picnic at midnight.
Carlsbad State Beach
Located about 30 miles north of San Diego, you will find this beautiful beach a favorite to add to your list. If you are looking for a quiet, unique beach setting, look no further. Now this beach isn’t your crazy busy type of recreational area. Rather, you may find it pretty relaxing. The thing that make this beach special are the numerous rocks and the seagulls. It is the perfect clean and quiet beach to visit. It’s also great for families and picnics! Popular activities include swimming, surfing, picnicking, and camping.
Sunset Cliffs | Ocean Beach
Visiting this beach area can sometimes be a safety hazard because of its rugged jagged coastal edges. It is however, one of the most beautiful beach areas to photograph. Although not your typical soft sandy beach, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is comprised of 68 acres of unique coastal property. You will find this stunning scenic area south of the Ocean Beach pier, along Sunset Cliffs Boulevard. There have been several incidents in the area because people get too close to the sharp drop off edges and fall. This place is amazing with its panoramic breathtaking views and magnificent sunsets, you won’t want to miss seeing Sunset Cliffs!
Oceanside Beach
I don’t think there is a better way to spend the end of the day then enjoying a sunset and surfers at Oceanside Pier. The original Oceanside pier was built in 1888 but was destroyed by storms in 1890. There have been about six renditions of piers built and then destroyed from storms. The current pier was built in 1987 is one of the most beloved iconic landmarks in the city today. It will be a place popular for fishing, surfing, dining, swimming, and even the IRONMAN Triathlon!
I have enjoyed calling San Diego home for more than 25 years. There are still some areas I have yet to see but the beaches are some of my favorite. I have explored all over the state of California and made many fond memories here. I share these ideas and tips to help and inspire other NewsBreak travelers! I truly appreciate your support and want to thank you!
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