Pacific Beach, or P.B. as it is known to the locals, is the epitome of Southern Californian beach town life. This stretch of coast runs from La Jolla in the North down to Mission Beach in the South, and caters for sports lovers, party goers and families alike.
A Navy base occupied this area during World War II, but it subsequently grew into a thriving neighbourhood during the 1960s. The bars and nightclubs along the beachfront now attract a crowd of young professionals and college students, whilst the restaurants and hotels cater for more classic tastes.
The beach itself is split into three sections that each offer different activities and distinct atmospheres. North Pacific Beach is the quieter area, and is perfect for families as it offers lifeguard-supervised swimming and good facilities.
Tourmaline Surfing Park, as it name suggests, is the surfing-only section of Pacific Beach. The slow waves make it popular with beginners, so this is perfect if you want to try your hand at the iconic Californian pastime.
Between Crystal Pier and Pacific Beach Drive, you’ll find the heart of P.B. This stretch of sand is a hive of activity when the sun comes out, with volleyball matches, live music, picnics and a countless people out just topping up their tan. Hire a pair of rollerblades or a bicycle and join the crowds up and down the boardwalk, which stretches over 5 km along the coast. Stop off at Crystal Pier and try your luck with a fishing line. You never know what fish may bite in these mild Pacific waters.
For evening entertainment, you’ll find many places to stop for a bite to eat or linger over a delicious meal, before heading out to the many bars and nightclubs that give P.B. its reputation as the party hotspot in San Diego.
Parking spaces can be very difficult to find at Pacific Beach, so it is highly recommended to travel on public transport. The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System offers services than run from downtown San Diego to Pacific Beach.
