San Diego Beaches
52 Miles of
Pristine Pacific
From marine reserves to surf breaks, every stretch of San Diego coastline tells a story worth discovering.
52+
Miles of coastline
8
Protected marine zones
30+
Named beaches
12°C
Average water temp (winter)
Marine Protected Area
La Jolla Cove
The Crown Jewel
A sheltered sea cave surrounded by cliffs, teeming with sea lions, leopard sharks, and garibaldi. World-class snorkeling in crystal-clear water.
Know Before You Go
- ✓No fishing zone
- ✓Sea lion habitat
- ✓Snorkel & dive access
- ✓Year-round safe swimming
State Natural Reserve
Torrey Pines State Beach
Wild California
Dramatic ochre sandstone cliffs plunge to untouched sand. One of the last stands of the rare Torrey Pine tree. No crowds, no development.
Know Before You Go
- ✓No dogs allowed
- ✓Reserve hiking trails
- ✓Hang-gliding launch point
- ✓Tide pools at south end
Signature Shore
Coronado Beach
Golden Mile
Consistently ranked among America's finest beaches. Fine golden sand, calm water, and the iconic Hotel del Coronado as a backdrop.
Know Before You Go
- ✓Family-friendly swimming
- ✓Dog-friendly north end
- ✓Fire rings at sunset
- ✓National Historic Landmark nearby
Protected Zone
Point Loma Tidepools
Living Museum
At low tide, the rocky reef becomes a living exhibit — sea stars, hermit crabs, anemones, and octopuses in natural rock pools.
Know Before You Go
- ✓Tidal access only
- ✓No collecting
- ✓Ranger-led tours
- ✓Best at -1ft tide or lower
Local Favourite
Windansea Beach
Surfer's Sanctuary
Rocky reef break beloved by experienced surfers. A 1940s palm-thatched shack — a San Diego cultural landmark — sits above the break.
Know Before You Go
- ✓Expert surf territory
- ✓Historic surf shack (1947)
- ✓No lifeguard: caution required
- ✓Stunning sunset views
State Beach
Silver Strand State Beach
The Silver Ribbon
A narrow isthmus of silver-white sand connecting Coronado to Imperial Beach. Calm bay side for paddling, open ocean side for swimming.
Know Before You Go
- ✓Camping available
- ✓Bay & ocean swimming
- ✓Bike path along strand
- ✓Seasonal snowy plover habitat
Make a Difference
Join a Beach Clean-Up
Surfrider Foundation SD hosts monthly clean-ups at beaches across the county. No experience needed — just a willingness to show up.
Surfrider Foundation SD →