Your San Diego Beach Guide: The Top 10 Best Beaches in San Diego
Dreaming of sun, sand, and surf? You’ve come to the right place. With over 70 miles of stunning coastline, San Diego is home to some of the best beaches in California — and they’re all within easy reach when you stay at Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle.
Each beach has its own personality — whether you’re chasing epic waves, hunting for hidden sea caves, or just soaking in a golden sunset. Thanks to our central location in Mission Valley, you’re perfectly positioned to explore them all.
From family-friendly shores to local surf spots and scenic stretches perfect for sunset strolls, our San Diego Beach Guide has you covered. Keep reading to discover the top beaches to visit during your San Diego getaway — and let the beach-hopping begin!
The 10 Best Beaches in San Diego
1. Ocean Beach (4.9 Miles to Hotel)
Just minutes from Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle, Ocean Beach (known as OB to locals), is a laid-back, dog-friendly spot perfect for beach games, bonfires, and soaking up classic SoCal vibes without the big crowds. With free parking, restrooms, showers, and lifeguards, it’s easy to spend the whole day here. After the beach, head to Newport Avenue for iconic local eats like Hodad’s, OB Noodle House, and Wonderland Ocean Pub, or swing by the Ocean Beach Farmers Market on Wednesdays for live music, street food, and local flavor.
2. Mission Beach (5.8 Miles to Hotel)
Mission Beach is a lively oceanfront playground perfect for beach lovers, thrill-seekers, and families alike. Stroll the scenic boardwalk, catch waves, or ride the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster at Belmont Park. The beach features lifeguards, restrooms, showers, and plenty of space for sunbathing or a game of beach volleyball. After the fun, grab a bite at local favorites like Cannonball, Draft, or Beach House — all offering unbeatable ocean views.
3. Pacific Beach (6.7 Miles to Hotel)
Pacific Beach, (known as PB), blends laid-back beach vibes with lively local energy, making it a favorite for both daytime relaxation and vibrant nightlife. Spend the day lounging on the sand, surfing the waves, or biking along the scenic Ocean Front Walk. As the sun sets, head to popular spots like Pacific Beach AleHouse, Waterbar, or Shore Club for oceanfront drinks and casual bites. With its mix of beach fun, surf culture, and buzzing bars, it’s easy to see why Pacific Beach is a San Diego must-visit.
4. Shell Beach (11.2 Miles to Hotel)
This hidden gem features everything from beach forests and bluff-top meadows to relaxing waterfalls and a rocky coastline. Always on the list of best beaches in San Diego, Shell Beach in La Jolla offers an adventure that takes you from the cliffside steps that lead to the beach to sandy coves and tide pools to explore. Take in views of California’s amazing rock formations, hike along the trails, go Scuba diving, and fish at Shell Beach in San Diego.
5. La Jolla Cove (11.3 Miles to Hotel)
La Jolla Cove is a picture-perfect gem known for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and abundant marine life — making it one of the best spots in San Diego for snorkeling, kayaking, and seal spotting. Protected as part of the La Jolla Underwater Park, it’s ideal for calm ocean adventures and scenic coastal walks. After exploring the cove, grab a bite at local favorites like George’s at the Cove, Duke’s La Jolla, or The Taco Stand for a charming mix of ocean views and coastal cuisine.
6. Coronado Beach (12.2 Miles to Hotel)
Coronado offers a stunning mix of golden beaches, historic charm, and small-town vibes, making it a perfect escape just across the bay from downtown San Diego. Relax on the wide, sandy shores of Coronado Central Beach, explore the island’s quaint streets, or rent bikes to cruise through tree-lined avenues filled with boutique shops and cafés. With its serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery, Coronado is the ultimate spot to unwind and enjoy the best of San Diego’s coastal beauty.
7. Torrey Pines State Beach Park (16.0 Miles to Hotel)
Hikers and nature lovers will enjoy a day at Torrey Pines State Beach Park. Enjoy beautiful views of the cliffs along the coast and be on the lookout for paragliders and hang gliders! The beach is perfect for exploring and photographing the different views of the park.
8. Windansea Beach (16.1 Miles to Hotel)
Windansea Beach is a hidden gem known for its rugged beauty, crystal-clear waters, and iconic surf breaks. This peaceful spot offers stunning ocean views, perfect for watching surfers ride the waves or enjoying a quiet moment on the sand. The beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and unique rock formations, making it a popular choice for photographers and nature lovers. Whether you’re relaxing by the water or taking in the scenic surroundings, Windansea Beach offers a tranquil escape with a laid-back, local vibe.
9. Del Mar Beach (18.0 Miles to Hotel)
This 2-mile stretch of sandy beach is one of the best beaches in San Diego because it has two coastal parks that are family-friendly, great for swimming, picnics, and relaxing in the sun. Spend the day at Del Mar Beach, then grab a cocktail and hit the pool at the Days Inn By Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle!
10. Carlsbad State Beach (27.1 Miles to Hotel)
Spend a relaxing day along the Pacific coast at Carlsbad State Beach. This quiet piece of paradise is a great place to have the perfect picnic. It’s also a popular spot to take in the amazing sunset views. There is also camping, swimming, surfing, and fishing at this fun-filled San Diego beach park.
Are You Ready to Explore the Best Beaches in San Diego?
Book your San Diego beach vacation today at the Days Inn San Diego Hotel Circle and prepare to explore some of the best beaches in the U.S. Enjoy convinient amenities including a heated pool, fitness room, a Jacuzzi, and…you can even bring your favorite furry friend with you to our dog-friendly San Diego hotel!
Take advantage of one of our Special Rates or Vacation Packages and plan the San Diego beach vacation you’ve been dreaming of today!