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Pacific Beach City Guide

a body of water next to the ocean

Pacific Beach—known by locals as “PB”—is one of San Diego’s most vibrant coastal neighborhoods. Popular with surfers, students, and travelers alike, PB offers a lively mix of dining, nightlife, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just curious about what to do in Pacific Beach, this city guide highlights the best restaurants, hotels, activities, and beaches to help you make the most of your visit.

Best Places to Eat in Pacific Beach

PB’s food scene is as diverse as its community, with options ranging from casual taco stands to trendy rooftop restaurants.

  • JRDN Restaurant: Located at Tower23 Hotel, JRDN is a stylish beachfront restaurant serving fresh seafood, sushi, and craft cocktails. The ocean views make it an ideal spot for sunset dining.
  • The Fishery: A local favorite, The Fishery doubles as both a seafood market and restaurant, known for its sustainably sourced dishes and fresh catches.
  • Kono’s Café: A long-time breakfast institution just steps from the boardwalk. Locals and visitors line up for their generous portions of pancakes, breakfast burritos, and coffee.
  • PB Shore Club: Famous for its laid-back vibe and oceanfront location, Shore Club pairs California comfort food with one of the best views of Pacific Beach Pier.
  • Crushed PB: Known for its creative brunch menu and flights of mimosas, Crushed is a popular spot for a fun, social start to the day.

With a mix of casual eats and upscale dining, Pacific Beach offers flavors for every craving.

Where to Stay in Pacific Beach

From beachfront hotels to vacation rentals, PB has accommodations that let you experience the neighborhood’s energetic vibe up close.

  • Tower23 Hotel: A modern boutique hotel right on the sand, Tower23 blends contemporary design with beachside luxury. Its on-site restaurant, JRDN, adds to its appeal.
  • Pacific Terrace Hotel: Overlooking the ocean, this resort-style hotel offers a relaxed atmosphere with all the amenities of a luxury stay, including a pool deck with stunning views.
  • Blue Sea Beach Hotel: Located directly on the boardwalk, this hotel is a favorite for travelers looking for easy beach access and walkability to bars and restaurants.
  • Vacation Rentals: Many visitors choose short-term rentals for a more residential experience, ranging from cozy surf cottages to modern condos with rooftop decks.

Whether you’re planning a family trip, romantic weekend, or group getaway, PB has lodging options to fit your style.

Activities To Do in Pacific Beach

Pacific Beach is more than just sand and surf—it’s a hub of entertainment, fitness, and exploration. If you’re looking for things to do in PB San Diego, here are some of the most popular activities:

  • Surfing and Paddleboarding: With consistent waves and several surf schools nearby, PB is one of the best places in San Diego to learn how to surf or rent a board for the day.
  • Biking the Boardwalk & Taco Tour: Rent a beach cruiser or electric bike and ride along the Ocean Front Walk, which stretches from Pacific Beach through Mission Beach. It’s a scenic and energetic way to see the coast. A favorite activity is to use your bike and visit taco shops along the boardwalk. Just get a single taco from each taco shop and take yourself on a taco tour. Be sure to include El Jefes, Sandbar, Mission Baja Tacos in Mission Beach and then City Tacos and Oscars Mexican Seafood in Pacific Beach.
  • Yoga on the Beach: Sunrise and sunset yoga sessions on the sand are a peaceful counterbalance to PB’s lively atmosphere. Palisades Park in North PB frequently offers outdoor yoga in the park and you will get stunning views of the ocean. Don’t forget to get a smoothie or fresh juice at the Mad Beet.
  • Next Level Sailing Whale Watching: Just a short drive away in San Diego Bay, you can embark on a whale watching or sailing tour with Next Level Sailing. While not departing directly from PB, these excursions give you a chance to spot dolphins, sea lions, and whales, then return to Pacific Beach for dining and nightlife.
  • Shopping and Boutiques: Garnet Avenue, PB’s main drag, is lined with surf shops, trendy boutiques, and beachwear stores. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs or gear for your trip.

No matter your style, you’ll find plenty of ways to stay active, relaxed, or adventurous in Pacific Beach.

a large body of water

Best Pacific Beach Beaches

Of course, no guide to PB would be complete without highlighting its world-famous beaches.

  • Pacific Beach (Main Beach): Stretching along the Ocean Front Walk, this is the heart of the neighborhood. It’s the busiest and most popular spot, ideal for swimming, volleyball, and people-watching.
  • Tourmaline Surf Park: A hotspot for longboarders and beginner surfers, Tourmaline is a more relaxed stretch of sand north of the main beach.
  • North Pacific Beach: Quieter than the central beach area, this section is popular with families thanks to its lifeguard-protected swimming zones. Park near Law Street and there is a nice paved ramp down to the beach. There is also a bathroom at the top of the paved ramp.
  • Crystal Pier: One of the neighborhood’s landmarks, Crystal Pier extends into the Pacific and offers fishing opportunities as well as picturesque views. The pier is also home to unique overnight accommodations in pier-side cottages. You can watch the surfers as they catch waves right next to the pier.

Whether you want to surf, swim, or simply soak in the sun, PB’s beaches provide the quintessential Southern California experience.

a large body of water next to the ocean

Nightlife in Pacific Beach

PB is as famous for its nightlife as it is for its beaches. If you’re curious about nightlife in Pacific Beach San Diego, you’ll find everything from relaxed beachfront bars to buzzing nightclubs.

  • PB AleHouse: Known for its craft beers and rooftop deck, AleHouse is a favorite for sunset drinks and casual hangouts.
  • Mavericks Beach Club: With multiple bars, fire pits, and live DJs, Mavericks is a go-to spot for both day drinking and late-night dancing.
  • Moonshine Beach: This country-themed bar offers line dancing, live music, and a high-energy atmosphere just steps from the beach.
  • Backyard Kitchen & Tap: A stylish spot with craft cocktails, upscale bites, and a lively crowd—perfect for a night out with friends.

PB’s nightlife scene is diverse, making it easy to find the perfect spot whether you’re in the mood for live music, craft beer, or an all-night dance floor.

Pacific Beach captures the essence of San Diego’s coastal lifestyle: sun, surf, and energy. From its laid-back cafés and luxury hotels to its bustling beaches and nightlife, PB is a destination that appeals to every type of traveler.

So, if you’re wondering what to do in Pacific Beach, let this city guide be your inspiration. Explore the beaches, sample the food, experience the nightlife, and take in the adventure of nearby sailing excursions. Pacific Beach is more than just a neighborhood—it’s a lifestyle waiting to be discovered.

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