You can have a great time just finding the great things to do in Pacific Beach. This little beach community offers travelers a lot of fun opportunities including some of the best restaurants and nightlife near the city of San Diego.

People-watch on the Pacific Beach Boardwalk

Pacific Beach has a little bit of something for everyone. If you want to skip the bars, you can still get your dose of people-watching on the PB Boardwalk. Here you can see people walking, biking, skating, and doing lots of other wacky activities that we won’t mention here.

You can find places to shop, eat, drink, and play right on the PB Boardwalk but if you’re looking for some more relaxing just take a long stroll from Law St. all the way to Mission Beach’s Belmont Park. It’s a long walk but you’ll enjoy the views and get your steps in.  

If you’re lucky enough, you’ll get a chance to run into San Diego’s very own SloMo who rollerblades the boardwalk daily. You can read about SloMo and many other local legends around San Diego here. 

Surf the day away at Tourmaline Surfing Park Beach

This is a surfing-only beach so swimmers and frolickers need to go to another beach to have their type of fun. This beach is reserved for those who like to spend their day surfing the waves and enjoying the hot weather.

Plus, these slow-rolling waves are ideal for those learning how to surf. It is a great place for experienced and novice surfers. If you are a longboarder, you should enjoy the mellow waves found at this tantalizing surfing spot.

Tourmaline has a parking lot that leads right to the beach which makes it a popular spot for surfers all over. 

Pro Tip: LOCK YOUR CAR DOORS. Surfers tend to leave their vehicle doors open and there have been many break-ins and stolen cars. Don’t try to hide your keys on or around your vehicle – people may be watching you as you hide it. 

Walk The Crystal Pier

Another great thing to do in Pacific Beach is to walk The Crystal Pier. This pier comes with a long history since it was built almost 100 years ago. It was the place to go when you were in San Diego in the 20th century and it still is in the 21st century. Part of Crystal Pier has hotel cottages that you can stay in.

As you get to the end of the pier you get a view spectacular view of the Pacific Beach, Mission Beach, Ocean Beach coastline. During December, you can see a decorated pier with lights and a Christmas Tree. 

If you like to fish, this is the pier to do that. Just be careful of the surfers below. You do not want to hook one of them when you cast your rod for the catch of the day.

Night out on Garnet Ave.

Garnet Avenue is the place to go for a party every night. There are tons of bars and clubs that stay open until the wee hours of the morning as well as some unique boutiques where you can buy souvenirs to remember your trip. Garnet Ave. has been called one of the liveliest streets in America, so if you want to dance the night away, this is where you should go.

Be sure to see our blog post where we look at a list of the best bars in Pacific Beach.

North Pacific Beach

One of the best beaches you can go to when you are in the area is North Pacific Beach. It is the swimmers’ hideaway and is located between Tourmaline Beach and the Crystal Pier. This spot can get crowded during peak season so be prepared to have a lot of competition for the best swimming and sun tanning spots.

The high Bluffs make sure the high winds stay away. You can sun tan without worrying about sand getting all over your skin and sticking to your sunscreen. Going to the beach is a great way to relax and have fun when you are away from home. Let this beach take your stress away.

Be romantic and watch the sunset

What better way to end your daytime activities than by walking to the beach or pier and watch the sun go down. You will be impressed by the radiant beauty the sun displays every night.

The different colors should not be the same day after day and you can watch them change every time the sun gets a little lower in the sky. 

Rent Electric Bikes and explore

If you want to see as much of the area as possible, rent an e-bike for your visit. You will enjoy a new way to travel around town and can go at your own pace. Plus, it is such a great way to get some exercise in and burn off those calories from all those delicious meals you had on vacation.

You can ride down to Mission Beach or to La Jolla. Follow the bike trail signs and be amazed by the beautiful views and hidden gems you will find along your way.

Hang out by Law Street Beach

Located by the boardwalk and Law St., check out the grass area with an absolutely gorgeous view of the cliffs, the beach and the Surfers. Pack a picnic and enjoy the delicious food while looking at the sunset on one of the most picturesque beaches in San Diego. This is an ideal spot to grab your friends or family and have a good time. You can find people doing yoga, slack lining, and other activities here.

Ride a rollercoaster at Belmont Park

Belmont Park is located right on the ocean and offers a wide variety of rides and experiences, including thrilling rollercoasters. Whether you are young or old, Belmont Park has something for everyone.

And if you want to see some amazing views of the Pacific Ocean while enjoying your favorite ride, check out the rollercoaster on Belmont Park. There is also an arcade where you can play all your favorite games. A trip to Belmont Park is a must during your time in San Diego!

Take surfing lessons

If you are visiting Pacific Beach and would like to try surfing for yourself, there are plenty of surf schools that offer lessons for both beginners and more advanced surfers. Whether it’s just for the day or an entire week, learning to surf is a great way to experience the culture and beauty of Pacific Beach.

With its calm waves, warm water, and stunning landscape, it’s no wonder so many people choose to learn to surf here. So if you’ve always wanted to try surfing, why not make your trip even more special by signing up for lessons in Pacific Beach? You won’t regret it!

Enjoy a burrito by the beach

If you’re in the mood for a delicious and filling meal, stop by one of the many amazing burrito joints in Pacific Beach. Whether you prefer classic California-style burritos or Mexican-inspired flavors, there’s something for everyone here. With its laidback atmosphere and stunning views of the beach, it’s no wonder so many people come here for a quick and tasty burrito by the ocean. So if you’re craving that perfect combination of flavors, head to Pacific Beach now and treat yourself to one of the best burritos around!

Check out our blog post for a list of the best California burritos in San Diego.

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Paddle Board in Mission Bay

Looking for an amazing way to explore the beautiful coast of Pacific Beach? Then head over to Mission Bay, where you can go paddle boarding and experience the area in a whole new way. With calm waters and plenty of options for rentals, Mission Bay is the ideal place to go paddle boarding.

So if you’re looking for a fun and relaxing way to see the area, don’t miss out on this unique opportunity in Pacific Beach. A day at the beach has never been more exciting!

Check Out the Local Coffee Shops

Pacific Beach has a number coffee shops if you need a little boost in your day. We’ve compiled a list of the top coffee shops voted by locals in a blog post here.

Some of those on the list are in Pacific Beach… so take walk to the closest coffee shop and get your steps in on the boardwalk.

Rent a jet-ski and explore Mission Bay

Looking for an exhilarating way to explore the beautiful coast of Pacific Beach? Then head over to Mission Bay, where you can go jet-skiing and experience the area like never before. Whether you’re a first-time driver or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone at Mission Bay.

If you’re looking for a fun and adventurous way to explore Pacific Beach, don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity! Whether you’re riding solo or with a group of friends, a day at the beach has never been more thrilling. Book your jet-ski rental today and get ready for an adventure in Pacific Beach!

PB to Mission Beach — We’ve Got Merch for That

You can’t talk about Pacific Beach without shouting out its neighbor to the south. Our Mission Beach Rollercoaster T-Shirt is a nod to the Giant Dipper and the whole boardwalk-to-bar pipeline that connects PB and Mission Beach. More styles available at shop.sandiegohumor.com.

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San Diego has the best brews and cocktails to help you stay cool in the west coast sun. Whether you’re going out at night or day drinking, one thing PB doesn’t lack is restaurants and bars for all types of people.

Below is our list of favorite bars in Pacific Beach…

Cass Street Bar and Grill

4612 Cass St, San Diego, CA 92109

Cass Street Bar and Grill is a local favorite and one of our favorite bars in all of San Diego. Cass Street opened in Pacific Beach in 1980, being one of the oldest bars in Pacific Beach. The scene in Cass Street is a bit different than the rest of PB. Cass St. has a more chill, dive-bar vibe if you’re looking to hang out, play some billiards, and listen to jams. In June 2023, they opened up their second location in Ocean Beach.

Cass Street offers its own menu of beer and food but it’s also attached to its sister restaurant Harry’s Taco Club, which has one of the best California burritos in San Diego. Nothing like sipping on a cold beer and enjoying a California Burrito.

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Waterbar

4325 Ocean Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109

Located on the boardwalk in Pacific Beach, Waterbar offers ocean-front views, great seafood, and drinks. Our favorite is the margarita since Waterbar uses fresh ingredients without any of the ‘sour mixes’ you get in most bars.

Waterbar is great if you are looking for more of a classy vibe in PB. It’s a great spot for dates but make sure you get there early enough to catch the sunset with front-row seats along the ocean.

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Flamingo Deck

4110 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109

If you are looking for a classier feel in San Diego, Flamingo Deck is the spot. Flamingo Deck brings a Miami-style cocktail bar to the Pacific Beach scene. They have great cocktails and food. We recommend splurging for the New York Strip Steak.

They play chill EDM music and sometimes have a DJ. For those who want to have a downtown feel by the beach, the decorations and vibe at Flamingo Deck will make you forget that you’re in PB. Flamingo Deck is great for a date night or a night out with your friend.

Mavericks Beach Club

860 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109

If you’re looking for a day party in Pacific Beach, Mavericks Beach Club is the spot. Located on Garnet Avenue, Mavericks offers an outdoor beach club atmosphere with live DJs. The often have different events such as a happy hour for dogs and dog owners.

They also have great drink specials during happy hour. Make sure to come early as it gets packed during the summer months with long lines to get in for the night party.

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Moonshine Beach

1165 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109

Moonshine Beach is a country-themed bar and nightclub that brings a slice of the South to San Diego. With live music, line dancing, and a lively atmosphere, it’s a fantastic place to let loose and have fun.

One of the standout features of Moonshine Beach is its large dance floor, where you can join in on line-dancing lessons early in the evening before the floor opens up for free dancing. The bar also hosts live performances from local and national country musicians, making it a must-visit for country music fans. Moonshine Beach is a unique addition to the PB bar scene that’s definitely worth checking out.

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Lahiana Beach House

710 Oliver Ave, San Diego, CA 92109

Lahiana Beach House is a local gem in Pacific Beach. Located right on the boardwalk in Pacific Beach, it’s a great place to sit on the deck, drink beer and people-watch. On a sunny and warm day, finding a seat at Lahaina Beach House can become a little competitive.

Don’t forget to throw in your favorite tunes on the jukebox, adding to the lively atmosphere. And remember, at Lahaina’s, it’s all about cash transactions, but don’t worry if you’ve forgotten to bring any – they have an ATM inside for your convenience.

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