San Diego is blessed with incredible beaches of its own, but sometimes the perfect weekend escape means getting out of the city and exploring the coastal gems that surround it. Whether you’re craving the laid-back surf culture of a classic California beach town, dramatic cliffside views, or a quieter stretch of sand away from the crowds, you’ll find it within a short drive.
From the artsy enclaves just north of the city to the charming harbor towns south of the border, these weekend destinations offer the perfect mix of beach time, local flavor, and coastal character. Having called San Diego home for nearly 12 years, I’ve had countless opportunities to explore this stunning stretch of Southern California coastline. Each of these beach towns holds a special place in my heart, and any of them would be ideal for your next weekend getaway.
Encinitas
Just 25 miles north of downtown San Diego, Encinitas embodies the quintessential Southern California surf town vibe. This laid-back community is actually made up of five distinct beach neighborhoods—Old Encinitas, New Encinitas, Olivenhain, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, and Leucadia—each with its own personality.
Moonlight State Beach is the town’s most popular stretch of sand, offering plenty of space for families, volleyball courts, and fire pits perfect for sunset gatherings. I’ve spent countless summer evenings here watching the sun dip into the Pacific. Surfers flock to Swami’s Beach, located below the iconic golden-domed Self-Realization Fellowship temple, for consistent waves and stunning views. The beach is named after the spiritual center and offers some of the best surfing on this stretch of coast.
Downtown Encinitas along Highway 101 is filled with surf shops, yoga studios, indie boutiques, and excellent restaurants. Don’t miss the historic La Paloma Theatre, a 1928 movie house that still shows films today. The San Diego Botanic Garden is another highlight, with 37 acres featuring plants from around the world. For breakfast or lunch, local favorites include Leucadia Pizzeria and the iconic VG Donut & Bakery—trust me, their donuts are worth any wait.
Carlsbad
Seven miles north of Encinitas, Carlsbad offers a more polished beach town experience while maintaining plenty of coastal charm. The village area along Carlsbad Boulevard features a European-inspired downtown with sidewalk cafés, wine bars, and unique shops just steps from the beach.
Carlsbad State Beach stretches for miles, with plenty of access points for swimming, surfing, and beachcombing. South Carlsbad State Beach offers camping right on the bluffs overlooking the ocean—one of the most scenic campgrounds in Southern California, and a favorite of mine for quick overnight escapes. During low tide, explore the tide pools at South Ponto Beach, where you can spot sea anemones, crabs, and starfish.
Beyond the beach, Carlsbad is known for LEGOLAND California Resort, making it a great family destination. The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch bloom spectacularly each spring with 50 acres of colorful ranunculus flowers. The Carlsbad Village Farmers Market on Wednesdays is excellent for fresh produce and local goods. For dining, try Pizza Port for casual beers and pizza, or Vigilucci’s Seafood & Steakhouse for something more upscale.
Oceanside
Oceanside, about 40 miles north of San Diego, is Southern California’s third-largest city but maintains an authentic beach town feel—and it’s where I called home during my time in the area. The iconic Oceanside Pier, stretching 1,942 feet into the Pacific, is one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast and serves as the town’s gathering place. I walked this pier countless times, and it never got old.
The beaches here are wide and welcoming, with Harbor Beach particularly popular for families thanks to calmer waters. Surfers have plenty of breaks to choose from, and the beach volleyball scene is strong. The harbor itself offers boat rentals, whale watching tours, and harbor cruises. Don’t miss the Thursday sunset market at the harbor during summer months—it became part of my weekly routine.
Downtown Oceanside has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years, with Coast Highway and the surrounding streets now home to craft breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and galleries. Having lived here, I got to witness this neighborhood’s evolution firsthand, and it’s been incredible to see it become the vibrant hub it is today. Visit the Oceanside Museum of Art or explore the Mission San Luis Rey de Francia, one of California’s largest Spanish missions. For authentic tacos, Johnny Mañana’s is a local institution that I frequented regularly, while Wrench & Rodent Seabasstropub offers creative cocktails and unique small plates.
Del Mar
Just 20 miles north of downtown San Diego, Del Mar exudes sophistication and seaside elegance. This affluent coastal village is famous for its thoroughbred horse racing at the Del Mar Racetrack, where the season runs from mid-July through early September. Even if you’re not a racing fan, the track’s beachfront setting and festive atmosphere make it worth experiencing.
Del Mar City Beach and Powerhouse Park Beach offer pristine stretches of sand with excellent swimming and boogie boarding conditions. The beach is wide and well-maintained, ideal for long walks or sunset watching. Del Mar’s compact downtown along Camino Del Mar features upscale boutiques, galleries, and dining options. The Del Mar Plaza is a terraced shopping center with ocean views and rooftop restaurants.
Grab a coffee at Better Buzz, browse the independent bookstores, or enjoy dinner at one of many excellent restaurants. Board & Brew is perfect for casual sandwiches, while Sbicca and Pacifica Del Mar offer more refined coastal cuisine. The weekly Del Mar Farmers Market on Saturdays is one of the best in the county.
La Jolla
Though technically part of San Diego, La Jolla feels like its own distinct beach town and deserves a spot on this list. Just 12 miles from downtown, this upscale coastal community is renowned for its dramatic coastline, sea caves, and incredible marine life.
La Jolla Cove is the crown jewel, with its protected waters perfect for snorkeling and kayaking among garibaldi, leopard sharks, and even the occasional sea lion. The Children’s Pool Beach is famous for its harbor seal colony—you can watch these adorable creatures from a safe distance. For experienced snorkelers and divers, the La Jolla Underwater Park offers seven unique ecological reserves.
Beyond the beaches, La Jolla Village is filled with art galleries, jewelry stores, and designer boutiques. The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego has a stunning oceanfront location. Hike the Coast Walk Trail for spectacular cliff-top views, or visit the nearby Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for dramatic sandstone formations and coastal trails. Dining options abound, from Duke’s La Jolla with its Hawaiian-inspired menu to George’s at the Cove, offering innovative California cuisine with breathtaking ocean views.
Solana Beach
Tucked between Del Mar and Encinitas, Solana Beach offers a quieter alternative to its more famous neighbors while delivering equally beautiful beaches and a thriving downtown. Fletcher Cove Beach Park provides easy beach access with grassy picnic areas on the bluffs above, making it perfect for a beach day with the family.
The Cedros Design District is Solana Beach’s main attraction beyond the sand, with three blocks of unique shops, home décor boutiques, antique stores, and restaurants. You could easily spend hours browsing the eclectic mix of offerings. The neighborhood has an artistic, bohemian vibe that sets it apart.
For food, the Belly Up Tavern is a legendary live music venue that also serves great food, while Parioli Italian Bistro offers excellent pasta and pizza. The weekly farmers market on Sundays is small but well-curated. Solana Beach is perfect for those seeking a low-key beach town experience without the crowds.
Rosarito Beach, Mexico
For something completely different, head south of the border to Rosarito Beach, just 30 minutes from downtown San Diego (with no traffic at the border). This coastal Mexican town offers a festive atmosphere, authentic cuisine, and long stretches of sandy beach at a fraction of California prices.
Rosarito Beach itself is wide and welcoming, perfect for horseback riding, ATV tours, or simply relaxing with a margarita from one of the many beachfront restaurants and bars. The town’s main drag, Boulevard Benito Juárez, is lined with shops selling everything from handcrafted pottery and blankets to silver jewelry and souvenirs.
Don’t miss the famous lobster at Puerto Nuevo, just south of Rosarito, where the small fishing village has become renowned for its lobster served with beans, rice, and fresh tortillas. Rosarito Beach Hotel is a historic landmark worth visiting even if you don’t stay there. Just remember to bring your passport and practice standard safety precautions. Check current border wait times before heading back to avoid long delays.
Coronado
Though connected to San Diego by bridge, Coronado feels like a separate beach town with its own distinct charm and small-town atmosphere. The crown jewel is the Hotel del Coronado, a Victorian masterpiece built in 1888 that’s one of the last surviving examples of wooden Victorian beach resorts.
Coronado Beach consistently ranks among America’s best beaches, with wide, flat expanses of soft sand perfect for building sandcastles, flying kites, or sunset strolls. The water is typically gentle, making it ideal for families. The beach stretches for miles, so you can always find a quiet spot even on busy weekends.
Orange Avenue, the town’s main street, is lined with charming shops, cafes, and restaurants in a walkable downtown area. Rent bikes to explore the island, including the scenic bayfront path. Visit the historic Coronado Ferry Landing for shops and restaurants with stunning views of the San Diego skyline. For dining, Clayton’s Coffee Shop is a beloved retro diner, while Il Fornaio Coronado offers Italian fare with bay views. Miguel’s Cocina serves excellent Mexican food and margaritas.
