1. Ocean Beach Boardwalk

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San Diego, CA

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Ocean Beach Boardwalk

4.3 (26 reviews)

Ocean Beach Boardwalk Photos

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Not really
Arnel D.

Worth the price of admission. A great place to enjoy the free vitamin d on a beautiful sunny day. The sound of the waves crashing against the rocks and pier are soothing enough to make a baby fall asleep... mine did. He enjoyed seeing the seagulls flying by. I enjoyed watching the locals playing hackie sack and vendors selling their goods or even a snake oils lol. Once in a while you'll find a tarot card reader too! Parking is limited so park on the streets. Be aware of the street signs to avoid the possibility of getting a parking violation ticket. There are many hobos around that are peaceful but do tend to make people feel uneasy. The smell of mermaid "seaweed" is pretty strong but not enough to get a contact high... With tons of things to do and see, OB is a great spot to come relax, see and be seen. I'll be back for sure as my wife loves shopping the boutiques.

Darci K.

On the boardwalk...that's where I'll be... I adore Ocean Beach as a small town, and the boardwalk is reflective of the town. It's simple, beautiful, and not overrun with stores etc. it's actually a very romantic walk during sunrise or sunset. You'll feel the cool breeze from the waves, the salt smell of the water, and occasionally you'll spot large mammals migrating. I love that the "main drag" runs close to the sand, which allows beach goers to enjoy the surf, and then on to the boardwalk. It's a lovely walk, good exercise, and breathtaking views.

John H.

The boardwalk is nothing special. There are a few vendors selling knick knacks, and ends by the pier where you will find the start of many restaurants. It does get a little dirty and there are a few harmless homeless folks. Walking the pier once is enough. However, past the pier you can scramble on the rocks for a different perspective.

Pete C.

The beach itself and boardwalk were ok in my book but the neighborhood had a great feel to it. The pier was long and a nice walk, plenty of people fishing and just walking around. The beach was a decent size and plenty to do other then laying out or swimming, at one end there were about 8 volleyball courts. The people in Ocean Beach were nice. There were shops and restaurants all around the area and it was a great day trip to get away from major cities. When I look around Ocean Beach, this is what visiting California looks like to me. Thanks Ocean Beach it was a great visit

Stacey W.

We enjoyed walking around and doing the sightseeing. Lots of shops, restaurants, bars, and people watching. We are thinking of staying in this area next time as we really thought it was cute. Nice beach too.

Nice view
Maritess C.

I came to check out this beach. It's not as great as PB but a little better. I'm a beach gal and grew up in a small beach community. This is fairly large but I still prefer Coronado or Imperial Beach. As I was walking around, there were some local crazy people, tourists, and locals enjoying this beach. The boardwalk spans out for miles and is a definite workout. It's cool to people watch. There's street parking all around and some parking lots that cost money to park. Be aware of the meter maids as they drive around giving tickets. It's best to come here early. If you come here late, parking is more difficult to find. A descent beach to come visit if your a tourist or a local.

Sean F.

Oh the great boardwalk, it has been here forever. I have seen books into photos from before my time, and to see it all now is crazy. There's a lot of fun to be had here from amazing food to great retail stores to surf shops and everything in between. Of course they're always is the beautiful beach that is only footsteps away so my suggestion is to find something cold to drink followed up by an amazing meal and go get your feet wet in the beautiful ocean, all of that deserves a full day or at least a half day experience depending on how much time you have. Newcomers to San Diego this is definitely a must try place that you should not avoid before your departure. Yes you will find some difficulty with parking but overall it's definitely worth it so of my favorite foods are right there on the strip !!

One view
Erika W.

My type of beach! OB!!!! Lots going on...from surfing, to people watching to bike riding, etc.... If you are looking for a nice , quiet place to chill with your loved one or your kids- THIS AIN'T THE PLACE! This is the local hangout! You have your typical beach bums, surfers, druggies, foodies, drunks, musicians etc...everything you could possibly ask for! The shops around are old, but cool and you can find some cute souvenirs. i love hitting up all of the restaurants around there! They have the best FISH TACOS along this beach! TOTAL HIPSTER BEACH! i like that on the opposite of the peer- the water is lower for some reason and it's perfect for newbie surfers or water babies like me! Oh yea- the PEER! It's cool- you can fish off of it, or you can just walk it---- all the way to the end- which puts you in the middle of the ocean! So cool!

Boardwalk
Riley S.

Ocean beach... is beautiful all around! Everywhere you look is something or someone pretty. I love this community of San Diego such a laid back place hipster central. My husband usually is not a fan of the beach sadly due to he is a San Diegan but he loves OB. I'm coming back next weekend to play with the sand crabs and the sea urcheants while getting a beautiful sun tan ! Heeyyyyy

Maridel A.

I love SD! definitely relaxing and beautiful. Very clean and convenient to all the shops and restaurants.

Gail P.

You are probably wondering: there is a Boardwalk in Ocean Beach? Well, yes-it's about 2 blocks long, but could easily be extended and probably should. Mission Beach Boardwalk may have it's roller-bladers and hot SDSU coeds and Pacific Beach-the drunks and the frat boys (same thing) but we got the priceless OB vibe! Though nothing to make the Mission Beach and Pacific Beach Boardwalks worry about, our little OB path is pretty cool and certainly colorful! Lounging on the perimeter along the way can be found assorted drug-dealers, Rasta's with dreadlocks, misguided musicians with guitars, drug-dealers, barefoot hippie females, drug-dealers, tourists, and the ever-present homeless! Did I already mention drug-dealers? Once in a while, there will pass a hapless homie such as myself-on bike or foot. Then there are always the surfers. Start at the foot of the Ocean Beach Pier-in the parking lot below Niagara Avenue. That is where the Boardwalk runs along the Beach heading north and past the foot of Newport Avenue. I was there today admiring the somewhat shabby (but chic) OB Christmas Tree-decorated with hanging beach balls! Wishing I had my camera, I got to thinking: there absolutely needs to be a straight path line from this vantage point-all the way down to Dog Beach-which is the official hook-up entrance to the San Diego River Bike Path. This would assure a safe pedestrian continuity -from Mission Valley and points east and also from the beach communities to the north-into Ocean Beach proper. Along Abbott Street, and past the dead end of Newport Avenue, the "Boardwalk" stops in the Santa Monica Ave. Lifeguard Station parking lot. It simply dead ends at the showers and parking lot. There is a dirt alley that runs along Saratoga Avenue Park-that could technically be made into a continuation of the OB Boardwalk and that dirt path runs along the beach and in front of some cottages. It ends up at the Brighton Avenue entrance to North OB parking lot. It is my wish that somehow, someday, and in some way, the city could acquire or condemn-excuse me, set-aside an Empowerment Zone of beach frontage running from the Santa Monica Ave. parking lot north to North OB parking lot where a Boardwalk could continue along North Ocean Beach onto the entrance of Dog Beach. This would also be an official bike trial that would link the San Diego River Bike Path to Ocean Beach proper, and further on to Sunset Cliffs and beyond. Perhaps this is just another one of my pipe dreams, but the 2 block OB Boardwalk will just have to suffice for now. Don't forget to go check out the Christmas Tree mounted in the sand with the awesome beach ball ornaments! Who said you need snow to get into the spirit of the season?

F Z.

So, OB's boardwalk may not be as elaborate and long as PB's, but it's home and I find it wonderful. If you do any kind of running or walking in the area, definitely include it as a leg of your trip. On the main grassy area, there are often small events that are held with booths for food, drinks, and other goodies/freebies--this often extends into the parking lot adjacent to the pier. On a regular day, there are people juggling or doing couples yoga on the grass which is fun to watch. I've even seen many people getting Day 1 of their surf lessons here. With your dogs, be wary that they are only allowed during certain times of the day/year. If you're not much into that, go grab a table at Wonderland or Shades and soak in the great views of this boardwalk along with the pier and water. As I understand it, the Boardwalk begins at the staircase up to the pier on the south goes all the way up the beach to Cape May Pl. Some people even consider the fire pits as a part of the boardwalk, but that may be up for debate. The heart of the boardwalk is the small patch of grass between the flags/paved area and the lifeguard station. We've found hermit crabs climbing in the rocks before!

Nice place to come and sit.
Jackie G.

I love OB even though my sixth grade teacher who is a friend of mine on Facebook tells me that I need to be careful because of the crime rate. I think OB has a certain charm. It's eclectic and fun and people are friendly, homeless or not. The boardwalk area has lots of cool little places to check out. And it's the beach. In California. Can it be that bad? Nope. Arm yourself with pepper spray if you're scared. But you won't need it. My friends and I sometimes bring a bottle of wine and pour it into to-go coffee cups and watch the sunset. We fit right it. Life is short folks. Enjoy the moments.

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Ask the Community - Ocean Beach Boardwalk

Review Highlights - Ocean Beach Boardwalk

“Tourists, locals, homeless (not aggressive in our experience), buskers, craft vendors, surfers...”

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Green Flash

Green Flash

4.4(12 reviews)
1.6 mi

Green Flash is a meteorological optical phenomena that you can see during sunset or sunrise. It is…read morevery rare to be able to see. Given the right conditions, you can see a distinct green spot above the sun's upper limb, that usually only lasts for no longer than two seconds. It is even more rare, the green flash can resemble a green ray shooting up from the sunset or sunrise point. This sculpture is the work of Malcolm Jones and is dedicated to that phenomenon, but it in no way aids you of viewing. You will find it on the Mission Beach boardwalk. The piece is made of a solid cast acrylic archway that is supported by two concrete pillars. There is also a bronze plaque describing the green flash phenomenon located on the sculpture and another title plaque. It was made in 2002 and is in fair shape, especially considering its age. Some has put stickers on it and the plaques are show signs of corrosion. It is unique and I actually learned something new in the process. It definitely sticks out. I have come to the terms that I will probably not ever see a green flash. It takes masterful planning, precise timing, and patience. I have 2 of the 3 (you can figure out which one I am missing). Parking here is simple. There is a free parking lot right by it. You can park, get out and talk a closer look. Well, as with most sculptures that I have visited and reviewed, this is not a long stop. I was there less than 5 minutes. So, you may want to consider making this stop part of a larger itinerary to maximize your time and trip. The beach, a park, and an amusement park are in walking distance if you are looking for ideas.

I walked under this on my way to Mission Beach in San Diego and wondered what it was. It looked…read morelike something out of the 1970s!!! What is the Green Flash?? Well, it happens at sunrise or sunset, right before the sun drops out of view or starts to appear, it is said that a green flash appears for about 2 seconds. So this SoCal local flavor arch is a tribute to those 2 seconds!! Don't blink or you might miss it, literally, lol!!!!!

Photos
Green Flash
Green Flash
Green Flash

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Bird Shit Rock

Bird Shit Rock

4.9(10 reviews)
1.1 mi•Ocean Beach

I heard about this rock and added it to one of my many adventures. It is located in Sunset Cliff…read morePark and is very hard to find. I tried to locate it by the pictures that were on here, but they were wrong. After a long search that spanned about 2 days, I was able to find it. I will help you out, if you want to find it. It is located right across the street from 1083 Sunset Cliff Blvd. You can't miss it. Me and my assistant were able to find it in the dark. It is the one covered in bird crap. You cannot mistake it. There is a lot of places to park and get a good look. I would suggest getting there well before sunset because the parking fills up with all the sunset gazers. The rock had quite a few birds on it and is known as a surf break that produces 3 different waves. I do not know what attracts the birds to that specific rock. Some tried to explain it to me, but it was way over my head. I know that it is not much, but it is the little things that matter. It is not a long stop, but definitely worth a visit. A visit here should probably be paired with a visit to Sunset Cliff Park and a sunset viewing. I am really glad that I was able to make it here.

Why else come here, but the name is already intriguing as it is!!…read more Every visit to San Diego County I look to do and see new things and this was one of the new things I did my last visit. Sunset Cliffs is nice to take in the Pacific Ocean and then you see this big rock with a tone of bird poop and you can't help but stare at the eyesore.

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Bird Shit Rock
Bird Shit Rock
Bird Shit Rock

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Liberty Public Market - bopjo & moniker coffee company

Liberty Public Market

4.3(1.4k reviews)
2.5 mi•Liberty Station, Loma Portal, Point Loma
•$$

Been frequenting this area for a long while or a big chunk of/span of my lifetime. As a local…read morenative San Diegan I like to introduce spots to people who travel into the surrounding area. Point Loma is one of those places since it has a certain charm to it. Don'tcha think!? *It's very historical and strongly tied to those who serve or have served our country. Hence the anchor logo and other nautical features you'll spot in the area. Especially since the NAVY is right there in town. *The market hosts many different food and small business vendors all in one hall. Truly a hidden gem and so glad they opened up the space to share with those business owners. *You can visit larger restaurants establishments in the very near vicinity as well. It's touristy and locals favorite hot spot vibe is all rolled into one fused place here. *Very Family and fur baby friendly! *Very close to some nice hotels as well! Hope you enjoy as much as I do! Cheers!

I hadn't been back here since before COVID. I'm so glad we decided to pop by for lunch. Food halls…read moreare perfect for parties that don't all want to eat the same thing. My friend and I tried three places here, and most of them were great. The wonton noodles from Slurp actually had a heaping big portion that we were struggling to finish. The platter we ordered from Asado Gaucho, while tasty, were too overcooked for our taste. The empanadas from Panana were to. die. for. If I come back, I am 100% grabbing some to go. We had asked the employee for recommendations and they were all spot on. If you have to try anything in this hall - highly recommend their empanadas!! I regret not buying more to take back home LOL.

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Liberty Public Market - Liberty Public Market a little after 9:00am

Liberty Public Market a little after 9:00am

Liberty Public Market
Liberty Public Market - Dranks on the porch

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Dranks on the porch

Elvira - Serving bowls and cutlery for an extra touch

Elvira

4.5(479 reviews)
0.5 mi•Ocean Beach
•$$$

Made a 7:45 reservation and was seated within 5 mins. The place is a cozy family vibe from the…read moreplatings down to the cutlery. It's what you would find at your grandmas! We ordered two pastas and a pizza, both were delicious! If you love mushroom I would highly recommend the rigatoni alla Norcina. If you want a combo of all the classic Roman pastas get the Zozzona. The pizza was flavorful, the only thing was that I think since there were so many "wet toppings" the dough was a bit soggy. I would definitely come back to try all the other pasta and pizza flavors.

i almost want to gate keep this place since it is hard enough to get a reservation, but elvira…read moredeserves all of its flowers! we reserved for a large party, and got a room to ourselves that truly felt like walking into someone's home dinner table! the service was excellent, our waitress had recommendations for everyone. she was also very clear with me as a vegetarian when items (like the eggplant) would be fried alongside meat which was super sweet of her! i ordered the rigatoni sugo with ricotta, and i think everyone was jealous because of how stunning it was. the ricotta and basil were fresh and the pasta was perfectly al dente, no notes! we were celebrating a birthday, so we even got a pistachio tiramisu and a cute polaroid souvenir! as a note: we had brought a cake from another place, and they do warn they can only serve cakes from other businesses (not homemade) and will cut and serve the cake themselves! we had no issues, but haven't experienced this before. definitely will be back!

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Elvira - Indoor seating

Indoor seating

Elvira - Capricciosa

Capricciosa

Elvira - Daviola pizza

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Daviola pizza

Ron Burgundy Mural

Ron Burgundy Mural

5.0(2 reviews)
2.8 mi•Loma Portal

I'm glad Ron Burgundy lives forever on this mural in America's finest city. It's easy to pass right…read moreby it because it is facing a parking lot and it sneaks up on you quickly, the address is correct though!

Stay classy San Diego. This mural is painted on the side of Hi Auto Repair and overlooks a decent…read moresized parking lot. It was painted in September 2022 by Aqua One Art and is 17 feet tall and 120 feet wide. It depicts San Diego's own Anchor Man character, Ron Burgundy, standing in water that comes midway up his torso, while a group of dolphins are jumping and playing right next to him. You also see a small sail boat off in the distance and a pelican sitting on a small pier. Aqua is a self-proclaimed graffiti artist. So, of course the mural has his, tag in graffiti lettering. I think he is much more than a graffiti artist though. I like Aqua's style. He seems to learn toward sea life a lot. This mural is such an odd pairing and it works for me. I could actually see Ron Burgundy standing in an ocean in his perfect suit with dolphins around him. Since this mural overlooks a parking lot, parking here to get a closer look is very easy to do. I just pulled into the lot, parked and gazed at the piece. Anyway, as with most murals that I have visited and reviewed, this is not a long stop. I was there less than 5 minutes. So, you may want to consider planning out additional stops at many of the other attractions in the area, or making this stop part of a larger itinerary to maximize your time and trip.

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Ron Burgundy Mural - I'm Ron Burgundy?

I'm Ron Burgundy?

Ron Burgundy Mural
Ron Burgundy Mural

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Tijuana Walking Tour - Mexican border mural!

Tijuana Walking Tour

5.0(31 reviews)
19.7 mi•Zona Centro

If you live in San Diego (or Southern California), you must book this tour…read more We have lived in San Diego for nearly 30 years, but haven't been to Tijuana in literally decades. We've been wanting to visit TJ but we didn't want to sit in traffic to cross the border. We finally discovered Tijuana Walking Tours. We booked a private tour for just the two of us. Our guide was Fernando, and he met us on a rainy day a few days before Christmas. We walked across the border pretty quickly, and then headed to our first stop at CECUT (Tijuana Cultural museum). That was a beautiful museum - and great gift shop too! After that we went to Mercado Hidalgo (spice market), where we did some shopping and had lunch. Fernando was helpful in providing more context to some of the food items in the market. We even tasted some local candy in the candy store. Lunch was awesome (too bad I can't remember the name of the restaurant). After that we went to the area around Avenida Revolucion and saw some back alleys with very interesting murals. We visited the cathedral, and lastly stopped by a beautiful gift shop which sold high-quality artistic goods, rather than the usual souvenirs. We took taxis and Uber around Tijuana. Fernando paid for everything up front; and then we paid him in cash for the transportation costs at the end of tour. Fernando had a very easygoing personality. We were impressed with his enthusiasm in sharing his knowledge and love for Mexican history/culture. So if you live in Southern California, definitely take the time to learn more about our neighbors down south with Tijuana Walking Tour. You'll be glad you did!

Omar was great ! Easy to find and his English is awesome. Took us to Playa Nuevo and picked us up…read moreonce we were ready.

Photos
Tijuana Walking Tour - Drinking Mezcal

Drinking Mezcal

Tijuana Walking Tour - Tequila!

Tequila!

Tijuana Walking Tour

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Ocean Beach Boardwalk - localflavor - Updated October 2026

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