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Ocean Beach |
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HighlightsOcean Beach (“OB” to locals) has been — and pretty much still is — a hippie, liberal, middle-class beach community that loves dogs and isn’t terribly fond of big business. Locals have protested against the likes of chains such as Starbucks. You won’t find any fast-food chains here either. What this eclectic beach community does offer is a long fishing pier, a beautiful shoreline, tons of fun beach activities, and a dog beach for canine companions to roam freely without fear of the long arm of the law. Swim, surf, play some volleyball, or picnic; Ocean Beach is casual and hip, and it has some interesting characters, antique stores, surf shops, assorted shops, and restaurants along Newport Avenue. Like the locals and visitors, we enjoy Ocean Beach’s casual, laid-back beach culture and atmosphere. More than any other beach community in San Diego County, Ocean Beach allows you to be you — whatever that may be! Check out the tide pools south of the pier.
At the south end of the pools, you’ll find the beginning of
a concrete walkway that runs south along the oceanfront. The walkway
is perfect for a romantic stroll or a casual walk. Locals practice
an art known as “rock balancing” along the walk. LogisticsThe beach attracts a good mix of families, visitors, locals, and fishing folks. It has lifeguards, restrooms, showers, and disabled access. It also has separate swim and surf zones. Ocean Beach has public lots at the end of Voltaire Street, Santa Monica Avenue, and Newport Avenue. Street parking is scarce on summer weekends. Getting ThereTake I-8 west until it ends and turns into Sunset Cliffs Boulevard and then continue west. A right turn on Narragansett will take you directly to the pier. Insider TipsOn peak days when other beaches become crowded and parking is scarce, Ocean Beach is still quite accessible, especially if you arrive early and don’t mind parking several blocks from the beach. Check out “The Black,” a hippie -era, tie-dye, smoke shop on Newport Avenue that has an eclectic mix of clothing, gifts, and posters that carry on the spirit of the 60s. Newport Avenue is Ocean Beach’s shopping and dining district, with many unique shops, eateries and clubs. We especially enjoy South Coast Surf Shop for its awesome selection of surf gear and clothing. The boardwalk north of Newport Avenue is a great way to take in the local flavor. Stop by Qwiigs Bar & Grill (5083 Santa Monica Avenue) for excellent seafood and gorgeous views of the Pacific. Bike RidesIf you enjoy cycling, Ocean Beach offers several excellent rides for beginning and advanced riders. San Diego River channel. Beginners can start at the parking lot located at the south end of Ocean Beach near Dog Beach. A paved bike path runs east from the parking lot along the San Diego River channel. It goes several miles and provides a nice easy ride for beginners or families with small children. Pt. Loma / Cabrillo National Monument. Intermediate and advanced riders looking for a longer ride can start anywhere near Sunset Cliffs or Ocean Beach. From your starting point, ride to Sunset Cliffs Boulevard south until you see either Point Loma Avenue or Novara Street. Turn left and ride up the hill on either street (Novara turns into Santa Barbara at the top of the hill). You’ll soon intersect Catalina Boulevard, where you’ll turn right. Catalina heads south up the hill toward Cabrillo National Monument. You’ll soon enter the gate and continue to the top of the hill to the monument. This is a great place to take a break and enjoy the monument’s spectacular views, historical buildings, and exhibits. For a little extra ride and hill work, take the road that heads down to the tide pools, which are great for exploring sea life. End your ride by retracing your route back to Ocean Beach. RestaurantsQwiigs Bar & Grill — moderate to expensive food served in a second-story, ocean-view dining room. Sushi bar, salads, and fresh fish. Elevator for those unwilling to climb stairs. 5083 Santa Monica Avenue, 619-222-1101. Thee Bungalow. 4996 West Point Loma Boulevard, 619-224-2884. Stephanie’s Bakery. 4879 Voltaire Street. Hodad’s. Voted best burger 2002 San Diego Magazine. 5010 Newport Avenue.
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