Ocean Beach

It's usually about $30 to Uber/Lyft from our home in Santee to OB. It is always money well spent. We love OB. We visit as often as we can. At least once a month. We love the OB vibe. The OB locals are always great. The beach, the pier (when open), we love it all. OB is very walkable too and we really like that. It is fun to stroll around and discover something new. If you're a visitor to San Diego, put OB on your list - it's better than SeaWorld!

What a stunning view! I never realized that you could see such a beautiful sunset here! We came here on a very cold and windy day, but enjoyed the beautiful view nonetheless!

Grab your board and hit the gnarly waves of Ocean Beach, where Captain 619 rules the surf scene. With a plethora of mouthwatering treats along Newport Ave, this surfers' paradise is the ultimate destination for epicurean adventures. Whether you're a seasoned wave rider or a newbie beachcomber, OB offers something for all ages to bask in the sun, sand, and sea. So come on down and join the party - the ocean is calling, and the waves are waiting for you to conquer them!

I've said it before and I'll say it again; there's nothing quite like a San Diego beach. Sure there are tons of beautiful beaches everywhere, but there's just something about San Diego maaaan. I just can't really explain it. Ocean Beach is just another example of this. It's gorgeous, it's peaceful, it's comfortable, it's accessible, and it's clean. One of the less traveled beaches in this area, and that's just an added plus given the territory. There IS a parking lot, but don't hold your breath when it comes to finding a parking spot. If you ain't trynna be here at the butt crackus of dawn, then you best start looking for street parking. It will be a small journey but it's totally worth it. Since this beach is tucked between a residential neighborhood, there is street parking albeit limited) available if you are patient and look hard enough. Once you've completed the difficult task for finding parking, it's time to hit the beach! Even if you don't necessarily want to hit the beach (I can't imagine why you wouldn't), there's a large vibrant grassy field spade that's perfect for picnicking and dog play. This beach comes equipped with showers and clean restrooms. Lots of trash cans around to ensure that people are picking up after themselves and keeping it clean. The trek down to the water is actually a short one, so lugging your beach essentials is pretty much a breeze. The sand is super soft and warm. No sneaker waves here so you can definitely get in without any fears. Since it's less traveled, it's not as loud and chaotic. This is a beach where you can actually lay out enjoy a nap or a nice book read with minimal distractions. The views of nearby pier and coastline are also something to look forward to. It's just an all around lovely local beach. If you're looking to skip out on the large crowds without compromising the quality of a beautiful beach visit, Ocean Beach is your baby.

The beach is small and perfect for my furry baby! Surprisingly the dogs here are very nice and it's off leash as well. I bring my foldable tent and just sit in it throwing balls for my doggie. It's really relaxing and chill. The right side of the beach are where the dogs are and to rhe left where the parking lot is the beach for everyone else. The beach is pretty clean. I don't step on any poop or anything. I've been going here a long time, so it's just a nice beach to me.

A nice beach, not too busy, lots of surfers, bathrooms, a volleyball court in the sand, fire pits, and a dog beach on one side!

Very relaxed, judgement free beach. Seems more free spirited. It's not as stunning and awe-strucking as some of the other beaches in the area, but it has sand, ocean, and people (gets the job done). Also has a dog friendly portion so it is easy for pet parents to also hang out. A lot of shops in the area if you get hungry or bored. Really difficult to find parking, especially when summer hits and it is nice to go out to the farmers market. Also gets dirty and neglected at times.

Ocean Beach has unique tourist attractions! There are several famous restaurants and breweries located in OB. So if you are a foodie you can explore the restaurants and you will enjoy your time hanging out there! The beach itself: In terms of scenery; I enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the beach either in the morning or when you watch the sunset view from the pier In terms of cleanliness; The beach is not that clean. I think the city should put more emphasis on the cleanliness of the beach. In terms of parking; It's chaos! This is why my family prefers to use Lyft/uber to avoid the stress. In general I enjoy my time in OB! And i still recommended as long as you are aware of the drawbacks of the area.

Ocean beach is amazing. We were super lucky and had front parking. It was clean, not too crowded and the sand didn't stick to everything like I feel it does at mission beach. Perfect views and plenty of spots to eat with a view. Definitely one of my favorite beaches and can't wait to come back!

This was the only beach I've been to while visiting San Diego so I don't know how it compares to the other beaches in the area. There are good restaurants around the area and I didn't see many tourists (just mostly locals). Our airbnb was in the area and it is close to the airport (around 12 min ride). I didn't see many people sunbathing like other beaches but I did see many surfers (looked like advance surfers since the waves are pretty big). There are a decent amount of cliffs in the area so be careful! I think if you're looking for a beach to lie down, chill, etc. you might want to check out the other beaches. This beach is mostly for walking around, surfing, and eating.

Ocean beach is nice and connected to so many other beaches within walking distance. There are plenty of things to do around there. They have a few blocks of boutiques, souvenir shops and restaurants. A lot of places where you can grab drinks, sit and dine in. Depends on the days; there's a farmers market and little kiosks that sales random stuff on the sidewalk near the sand. The bathrooms can have a long line on certain days and it's usually dirty. I just like to sit on the sand or on the bench at the pier and look at the waves on summer nights; catching the sunset there is awesome. Great for fishing too!

Cool area with lots of interesting people and restaurants and bars lining the streets. This is known as the hippy and interesting part of town and I could definitely see that. There a couple of free parking lots and it wasn't too hard to find a spot. Beach is pretty but they do close the pier when it gets dark.

The neighborhood is alright but not the best beach around. No real complaints just much, much better options in the area.

My wife and I were in San Diego a couple of weeks and decided to come here and go for a walk. Got here in mid morning and parked at one of the public lots. The sun was out and the air was cool so it couldn't have been nicer. Mostly locals when we were here so not too crowded. Great way to spend the morning

Had a great time here bringing my sister who was in town from New York. We went in the early evening and it wasn't too crowded. We found parking easily and a nice place to set up the umbrella and blanket. There are bathrooms and there is a designated dog area. The waves were fun to play in, and this beach is really accesible from downtown. It was a bit dirty, that's the downside

OB was my least favorite beach out of the ones we visited. It wasn't terrible, but you could tell it was def a hippie/surfer vibe. There were some homeless hanging out. The best part of OB is sunset cliffs.

My favorite beach and hang out spot . Atmosphere is laid back down to earth vibes . Can find local artist sometime selling jewelry on boardwalk . Low key locals and big tourists area . Enjoy the tourist shops clothing stores or eats near by like Waffle ice cream sandwiches ( hint * don't walk on beach with it or seagulls will be aggressive) fish & lobster tacos too also famous Hodad's Burgers . Low tide here past the pier is fabulous for tide pools and seeking hag stones "ancient folk lore " attached to hag stones, rare to find especially multiple . Four stars because the parking lot is typically full but that's totally typical for California beaches . Lots of seaweed on beach and flies / or sand fleas that can be obnoxious at times .

I love Ocean Beach. I lived there for a short time and met some really neat people. Their are a lot of characters and awesome residents who have lived there for generations! Everyone I met while I lived there was welcoming and helpful. Everyone will share their favorite taco shop, favorite hikes and share a lot of information about this history of Ocean Beach. The beach is fantastic. The pier is half closed currently but it's still a great view and worth walking. Grab a sunset there for sure. The only negative thing I have to say is there are a lot of people living in vans or loitering around the wall by the beach. I think van life is awesome and half of the people I at the laws etc. The other half don't and police aren't too interested in checking the lots everyday to ticket etc. they shops in Newport are really cute. I love MissMatch! I've always found anything I've ever needed fir an event there. And yes, I have a favorite taco place! Mike's Taco's hands down! Very cool beach town to have experienced! Don't forget to check out the farmer's market every Wednesday!

I absolutely LOVE this beach. I used to go here almost once a week. Close to everything. Clean. Easy to get to. Theres a parking lot so easy parking. You can also park on the street. Amazing beach!

Beautiful beach with a very large and diverse demographic of visitors, although I do think it leans more towards the younger side. Lots of surfers, potheads, tourists, families, retirees, beggars, and high school/college aged students. It's a very stereotypical SoCal experience with the numerous blondes and dreads everywhere, the smell of weed and ocean water in the air, and the crazy beautiful beach with a stunning sunset. The culture of the beach reminds me a lot of Venice Beach in LA, but less people trying to sell you stuff and more people just hanging out. Tons of good places to eat nearby. I feel like it would be especially great on a spring or summer night when it's really warm out. I would definitely come back, and hopefully sometime soon.

Happy Earth day! By far my favorite beach in San Diego. Yes it can get pretty busy but the beach is big enough to fit all sorts of number of people. There is beach volley ball courts, close walking distance to lots of food spots, dog area is lovely for your furry friends (do note there can be many dogs, just make sure your dog is in a place to be surrounded by many dogs) you can do a fire pit in the evening if you wanted to. Lots of folks surfing. Overall pretty clean beach, parking can be tough to find as it is all street parking. First come first serve as all beaches usually are. Close to many other beaches nearby to visit if you wanted to beach hop.

It's always a pleasure to visit this eclectic beach. It surely offers a lot for many with its designated dog beach, surfing beach, swimming area, and finely those hidden beach spots for whatever you have in mind. The soft sand is welcoming to many sorts of activities. One thing I have always felt about these beaches is that they are very laid back and so are the people who frequent them. The beaches here are more community oriented than commercially oriented, which helps with heavy congestion of visitors during peak season. There are a few small parking lots scattered around like the one at the end of Newport Ave. but most parking is street parking.

Ocean beach aka OB has more of a laid back, easy going vibe, feel and of course I'm partial to it because it's my favorite beach town in San Diego. Besides the entire beach town being dog friendly, everyone here is just like in perma vacay mode and this gal LOVES IT!! There are unique shops and fresh restaurants lining the streets, with everything from modern clothes to vintage, you can grab a comedy show, a concert or DJ, cafes to brew pubs, bars, rent a surfboard or bicycle, grab a smoothie, even places that will make a meal for fido so he can dine with you - TOO COOL! Just about every place in OB has a dog friendly area so bring him along too. OB is just an AWESOME place to spend a lazy beach day with your friends and/or family. The beach and the sand are soft on the toes, clean and PERFECT for relaxing! There is plenty to do around town, day or night. I'm definitely an OB fan! Parking can be tough as others have shared but TOTALLY worth the stop and a stroll around OB.

Huge beach so enough room for social distancing! They have a little market on the street so you can grab some souvenirs too! Lots of food options around, definitely a great place to hang out around if you're visiting SD! Dog friendly also!

Been here for almost seven years and the town has steadily gone down hill while the rents have gone sky high. Ocean Beach has become the town of choice to place San Diego's "Unsheltered" population almost all of who have drug abuse and other psychiatric disorders. We receive little to no support from the City of San Diego. Violence also on the rise.

- One of the prettiest sunsets in California - There's a lot going on - there were ppl, practicing fire dancers, mucho weed, BBQers * Idk if you're going to get a peaceful experience if you go on a regular day * The sunset makes up for it tho

OB is the most popular of the local beaches. With miles of beach, restaurants close by, spectacular sunsets and surfing abounding , what's not to like? Parking at OB can prove difficult. There are thousands of people daily, so don't bring a truckload of gear unless you arrive shortly after sunrise. The pier offered a good photo perspective, to offset the numerous surfers who frequent the beach. The outdoor showers and the restrooms were clean and orderly while the lifeguards kept everyone safe during the day. OB is a fun, friendly beach.

I'm finally getting a chance to write a review for one of my favorite beaches . Ocean beach has the longest pier on the West Coast , I absolutely love Ocean Beach... it definitely has one of the best sunsets I've ever encountered. There's very limited parking but you can find parking near by and walk around . There's lots of cute restaurants & bars and coffee shops in the surrounding area . It's a great place for everyone to explore and it's pet friend.If you have time if highly suggest you also check out Sunset cliffs and OB Dog Park . One of my favorite places to eat would be Newport pizza . Everything is in walking distance also . Everyone is beyond friendly in that town .

Surfers along the docks. Nice waves. Above it, is a dog beach with who knows what floating?? A lifeguard tower but lifeguards are stacking traffic blockades? Down town's grungy. However, the longer you amble and stay, the more it warms up. Shop owners can be huffy. Too much trash on beach. Vagrants hocking jewelry, used clothes. Citizens getting 'evicted' from stores. Rebel review: 4

Great beach, surrounded by so many places to eat. The beach wasn't too busy for a Saturday. There was enough space to make sure I wasn't too close to others. Sat there for hours people watching and enjoying the views. I would go back again!

Thought wow what a cute town! They had these tacky signs in some but not all of the parking spots. Looked like someone printed them out of their home laser printer. I was careful not to park in a spot with a sign. Turns out the signs apparently apply to all the spots on the whole block! Do not park in Ocean. Beach on Wednesday afternoon! They tow you for their Farmers Market which sets up at 2:30. And you get a ticket! So $400 and an Uber ride plus a half hour on the phone trying to find which lot they took my car to. Disgusting way to treat tourists. Palm Springs has metal city signs with the green print that we are trained to notice and read carefully. They also have a police officer drive the block a couple times with a megaphone warning shoppers and diners. They also start at 6 so most people can shop normally during the day. I also noticed that most of the businesses closed for this event. If I were them I'd be darned irritated that four days a month vendors get to use their parking spots to make money off the real estate they are paying top dollar for. Never made it to the beach. Will not return. And yes lots of vape shots give this place a seedy feel. Too bad.

It's a beach - what more to say! Usually not crazy busy. Fun little pop up tents every now and then. Can have bonfires in the designated area(s).

OB home of Hodad's and so much more! I use to avoid OB because I worried about the homeless population but it seems that has improved. Recently to OB coffee roasters and I really enjoyed it. Discovered all the great antique shops that I didn't know existed. There are so many great little shops and restaurants around the area. And let's not forget the water is just steps away. You can spend the entire day in OB. Start your morning with breakfast and coffee, then grab lunch walk around the beach and then grab dinner. If you have room for it there are bars around to grab drinks too! Very causal laid back area. Don't worry about dressing up, throw on some jeans and comfy t shirt your favorite hat and sandals.

I read the reviews and knew that this is everyone's favorite beach. This was obvious today, as it was packed and social distancing was impossible. I've been to several beaches and never seen one so busy. The seaweed was terrible today, I'd never seen anything like it. Also, we saw two small sharks in the water about waist high. Beautiful beach, just way too busy for COVID safety..

I didn't fancy Ocean Beach like the other beaches in San Diego that we went too. To be fair, we didn't spend alot of time here. Trying to squeeze in all things San Diego is a little impossible in a week! Haha. We pretty much fished on the pier and got our feet in the water. Ocean Beach is home to Sunset Cliffs so I am a fan. However, I thought OB to be more on the dirty side than the rest of the beaches. It's seaweed central. Not that I have any against the homeless, but there was quite a few hanging around especially on the pier. The vibe was just different here. We were probably on the wrong side of OB since we didn't stray far from the pier. I'd come back, but it wouldn't be my first choice. Again, probably need to go down further to enjoy it.

Who doesn't love the beach? end of story! ha! This beach has everything and even has a place for dogs to roam about. If you're looking for some drinks, shoot pool, listen to music, catch a sunset, scope girls, romanticize with a lady, take a 1st date, sex on da beach, even fishing... this beach seriously has it all. You can even find parking relatively easy. Recommended spots to hit are Pac Shores, South Beach Bar, Winstons & Surfrider Pizza.

One of my first stops during my trip to San Diego, Ocean Beach has a phenomenal view of the Pacific located off of Nimitz Blvd. and Sunset Cliffs Blvd. The place was packed with surfers, sunbathers, happy retirees, yoga groups, and tourists from all over walking on the white sand. Parking can be a tremendous hassle and we were hard-pressed to find a parking spot until a lady saw us waiting and motioned over to us as she was putting away her surfing gear. We eagerly took the spot which was next to a grassy area filled with local college students performing gymnastics and acrobatic moves. It was really cool to watch them as it reminds me of some of the moves performed at a Cirque du Soleil show. After a few minutes, the group decided to take a break and we walked south towards the pier. The surrounding area is filled with tourist shops, bars, tattoo parlors, and restaurants lined up and down the street adjacent to the beach. We continued towards the end of the street and climbed the steps leading to the pier. The pier was a massive boardwalk that led about a quarter of a mile out to the water. There were people fishing everywhere, some who have been there all day with several rods resting against the railing hoping to catch the big one. We spotted several artists selling their paintings as we walked by. Some of the pictures were abstract paintings while others were canvas paintings of the beach and various landmarks around town. As we ventured further out, we saw a souvenir shop selling ice cream, candy, bottled water, and various articles of clothing or accessories with a San Diego logo. We found a small countertop display that had sunglasses for $9.99. It was perfect timing since it was almost 90 degrees out and the sun was out in full force. Next door to the shop is a restaurant called the Ocean Beach Pier Café which serves Mexican soft tacos, large breakfast plate offerings of three-egg omelets, tall pancake stacks with bacon and sausage links, humongous burgers, and seafood dishes such as fish and chips or clam chowder bread bowls. I saw a server bringing a monster plate of nachos to a single diner that was big enough to feed a group of four people. One of the highlights of this beach is Sunset Cliffs further down the road. These rocks provide a phenomenal view of the coast and a panoramic shot of the Pacific. I can see this as a popular place for people to get married against the backdrop of a setting sun. The best part of walking along these cliffs is the feel of the ocean spray on your face and the sound of the crashing waves as well as the seagulls flying overhead. There is no shortage of local activities as this beach seems to be crowded all day until sunset. This is definitely a place worth visiting if you're from out of town and want to spend the afternoon getting your tan on.

I love OB. Such a good vibe. Local artisans selling wonderful handmade treasures by the shore. And a best kept secret in the main part of town that sells incredible music. Can't wait to go back.

You know what? I love it here. I love living here. I love walking here. I love exploring here. You got sunset beach I go sit at and read my book or run if I'm feeling up for it. If you go to this little park space at the top of the hill, you can lay on the hood of your car and look at the stars in the sky while listening to the waves crash below. Space closes at 10pm. Catch the sunset while you're there. There's a reason they call it Sunset cliffs. So absolutely beautiful. No better view. Hit the farmers market on Wednesday evenings. There is something for everyone! Music, massages, organic soaps and candles for aromatherapy, and of course FOOD! Or walk the antique shops/Thrift stores along Newport any day. They all have something fun inside. Best place for people watching. Get you a slice of pizza and a brew at Newport Pizza and Ale house, sit outside and watch the world pass you by. OB is a different kind of people. And they all have a story to tell. Some of them will even tell you without even having to ask.

Love the beautiful views at OB. Great Beach for people watching, running and just enjoying the beach

I think I was more towards the end of the beach then the "main" part. It was a cool afternoon but still sunny out. The beach was calming. Parking here is tight and can be difficult but not as hard to get a spot as Pacific Beach was. The beach seemed clean and I believe had a wash station though I just went in the car with sandy feet. I give it a 4 because the parking was better here than PB. Beaches here can't compare to Hawaii but hey it's a heck of a lot better than back home!

While at Ocean Beach, went in here for early dinner. The sushi was fresh and prepared to order. I tried the Bartenders Signature Cherry Old Fashion. Yes I said Cherry. It was delicious. They have happy hour and daily specials. There is something pretty cool about eating sushi when you are in a tropical/beach location. The thought that your food was caught that day and you can see where they fished from, is pretty freaking awesome. Bon Apetit.

If you like sketchy people who are pot heads and look homeless this is the beach for you. Boy has this place gone down hill. Use to be a great little spot with shopping and restaurants. I couldn't get out of there fast enough. I'm just glad there was an Uber around the corner. Never again. Armpit ocean. Dirty and nasty.

I love this area! What a totally chill, cool, Hidden Gem just outside San Diego City. Filled with hipsters, sensitivity beards, amazing people, and great surfing.

It was extremely hard to find parking, and once we did, I just didn't feel exactly safe here.

I love this beach. Not a hippie but love the beach! Dog beach is great for walking your dog as there is lots of space, especially at low tide.

Beautiful water but other than that not the beach for me. Homeless people sleeping everywhere and beach covered with flies. Large mounds of sand blocking ocean views. We felt very unsafe. Will not go back to this beach

I just love this beach... If you are a high maintenance, up tight person...cross over to the other side of the Jetty... South Mission and Pacific Beach greatly awaits your plastic boobs.... and dog unaccompanied side.... This place has crap here and there, and a slight of wiff of dog pee.... but that is just what makes this place for me... I love the homeless people... I love all the dogs.. I love the dreadlocks.... I love the vibe... I love the people living in their VW busses with their dogs.. Not that I have anything against plastic boobs... but I can do without the plastic fake behavior... Keeping it real man.. Ocean Beach... The Black... Pacific Shores... Sunshine Company... the list goes on... People's... OB Noodle House, Voltaire Street... The Pier!!!!

I have a couple of places I go to to clear my head. Wether with a another person or by myself. This place is special to me...kinda didnt want to share at first because I wanted this place to not get all popular with so many people coming around. Not like I have so many readers to influence...maybe just me always there when theres only couple of people?...but then again, last time I shared a spot, I went back and there are tons of people there just chillin now.. Boooo! This spot is BEAUTIFUL! though. Sharing is Caring. Whatever the reason is...except for the ones who wanna act stupid and mess the place up. You guys can go around the block to the other side where its more spacious and still beautiful. 凸 If you dont live in the area and dont drive a prius, hope you dont look like someone that attracts police, have gas money and time. Its worth it though.

The sounds of waves and the seawater breeze, was just enjoyable at this beach! With some beach bar/restaurants near the vinicity of this beach, it was a time well spent here - just ordering up a dozen of oysters, eating up fish tacos and grabbing a round of drinks or so while strolling the shoreline. Ocean beach. A pleasant, simple name. As good as it sounds.