Photo by Rodrigo Soares on Unsplash
Ocean Beach
A three-mile stretch of Pacific shoreline along the city's western edge.
The call
Worth it if you are watching the budget and you only have one day.
Why
- 01
A vast, raw, often-empty strand for a long windswept walk, a bonfire, or watching surfers — the city's wild edge.
Our read - 02
The catch: it's frequently cold and fog-socked even in summer, the surf is dangerous, and there's little to 'do' beyond the walk.
Our read
Is it a fit?
Go if
You are watching the budget
Ocean Beach earns the spend, even on a tight budget.
You only have one day
Short trip or not, keep Ocean Beach.
You are traveling as a couple
As a couple, Ocean Beach is an easy yes.
You are traveling solo
Solo, Ocean Beach is an easy yes.
Plan it well
- Cost
- Free
- Timing
- Sunset on a clear evening; check the fog forecast first.
- Allow
- 1–2 hrs
- Accessibility
- Paved promenade above the sand is accessible; the beach itself is soft sand.
- Getting there
- Along the western edge; the N-Judah Muni line ends here, or drive the Great Highway.
Consider instead
Ready to plan it?
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