Neighborhood Spotlight: Pacific Beach
San Diego’s Pacific Beach has so much to explore, from charming cafés and taquerías to trendy boutiques and yoga studios to a solid surfing and skating scene. Here’s our guide to the neighborhood’s best so that you can make a day of it.
Surf Like a Local
San Diegans’ love of surfing runs deep, and if you’re interested in learning from the locals, Pacific Beach is a great place to do so. Check out our all-inclusive Surf’s Up package, which includes lessons, surfboard, wetsuit, and more! Or, if you happen to already know the basics, head to Law Street, at 671 Ocean Boulevard (0.2 miles from the hotel). This solid beginners’ spot is especially good in the very early morning and just before sunrise.
Celebrate the Local Taco History
Tacos are abundant throughout this city, where Taco Tuesday is said to have originated — so pay homage to this illustrious history, any day of the week, at Taco Surf. A five-minute walk from our hotel, this 31-year-old spot is one of our employees’ and guests’ favorites. As the name suggests, it’s also a great place to view their collection of surfboards, mostly vintage.
Stroll Along the Pier
There’s arguably no Ocean Beach pastime as historic as strolling along the Jazz Age-era Crystal Pier, located at 4500 Ocean Walk Boulevard (0.3 miles from the hotel). This iconic spot was formerly the Pickerings Paradise Pier, an amusement park with arcade games and even a ballroom ). Take in views of surfers and spectacular sunsets, or rent a fishing pole at Crystal Pier Bait and Tackle for an afternoon.
Baked Bear
At the end of your Pacific Beach day, swing by Baked Bear (4516 Mission Boulevard), just five minutes from the hotel. Customize an ice-cream sandwich with your choice of top, bottom, craft ice-cream, and toppings, optionally hot-pressed for a meltier and creamier treat.
Fun in the Sun
Looking for a fun way to see the sights of Pacific Beach? Check out our Fun in The Sun package, including accommodations, beach cruisers, two tickets to the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster, two Baked Bear Ice Cream sandwiches, “fun” glasses, and more!
For additional inspiration, check out our area guide and start planning your stay.