Ocean Beach, San Diego is all about those bohemian vibes, which certainly fit a neighborhood on the beach in Southern California. The crowd here is typically older than what you’ll find in Mission Beach or Pacific Beach, San Diego’s party central.
That makes it feel more casual, like you don’t even need to be wearing shoes if you don’t feel like it.
I don’t mean anything by that other than if there’s any beach ‘hood in San Diego where you can let loose and be yourself, it’s here in Ocean Beach.
Check out my complete guide to Ocean Beach, San Diego, just north of popular Point Loma, before your next San Diego visit.
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Exploring Ocean Beach, San Diego
What is the vibe of Ocean Beach, San Diego? The vibes of Ocean Beach, San Diego, are bohemian, laidback, and much more casual than the rest of the city.
If you really want to feel those beachy vibes, it doesn’t get more authentic San Diego than Ocean Beach.
Check out this San Diego travel guide for all the things to do in Ocean Beach, San Diego, on your next visit to America’s Finest City.
10 Fun Facts About Ocean Beach, San Diego
Ocean Beach, known as OB to San Diegans and the folks here, is the quirky beach town you’ve been waiting for. Check out 10 fun facts about Ocean Beach that will impress even the locals out there.
1. Ocean Beach used to be known as Mussel Beach at one point. I’m not talking about the muscles you may find on Venice Beach, but the seafood variety that were once quite popular here.
2. Developers gave this part of town its current name, Ocean Beach, in 1887. I suppose it was more impressive as such than being known for mollusks.
3. One of those developers was Billy Carson. He became a mayor of San Diego later on, and then the mayor of a chain gang. Carson went to federal prison on land fraud charges.
4. D. C. Collier, then 16, was one of the first residents of Ocean Beach back in 1887. He was instrumental in building the railroad that connected Ocean Beach with the rest of the city back then.
5. Ocean Beach was once home to the amusement park Wonderland. Unfortunately, it was washed away just a few years after opening back in 1913.
6. Ocean Beach is credited as bringing surfing to San Diego in 1916. The story goes that a local lifeguard, perhaps George Freeth, the country’s first official lifeguard, borrowed a board from none other than Big Kahuna Duke Kahanamoku. The rest is history.
7. The community maintained its hometown vibes as the surrounding Mission Bay underwent extensive development. Up until 1967, following the construction of Interstate 8, Ocean Beach became known as a place to get away from it all and isolate a bit. You can bet Ocean Beach became a haven for hippies, vibes that continue to this day.
8. Those hippie vibes have led to some comparisons to Haight-Ashbury, an enclave of counterculture in San Francisco.
9. The dog beach in Ocean Beach is known as the Original Dog Beach, one of the first official leash-free beaches in the United States.
10. The OB Pier is the longest concrete pier on the West Coast at 1,971 feet. It’s a great spot to catch some fishermen and watch the surfers down below.
How to Get to Ocean Beach
You need to get to San Diego, first.
I use a variety of tools to find cheap airfare, but if you’re looking to book during a particular period of time, especially during busy times (e.g. school breaks), you should use Skyscanner. It’s a great tool for when you’re more flexible, too, as it allows you to compare travel based on length of travel, departure date, etc.
Deals to San Diego are tough to come by, as it’s such a desirable vacation destination, but they do happen if you’re able to watch flights for a while. Another strategy is following the major airlines to catch good deals that may come up for your city.
Once you’re there, Ocean Beach, as with most of San Diego, is accessed most easily by car.
If you’re renting a car, you can check prices before you go with an aggregator like Hotwire or Priceline. I’m not loyal to any one rental car company, because I like the deals.
Once you’re in Ocean Beach, it’s quite walkable, especially if you’re just looking to explore around the pier.
How to Get Around Ocean Beach
As with most of San Diego, it’s just easiest to get around Ocean Beach by car, despite some searching you may need to do for a spot on the weekends.
It’s certainly not as difficult to find a spot around here as it is Pacific Beach, though, so it has that going for it.
When driving, keep in mind that bicycles, rollerbladers, and any matter of wheeled transport are commonplace around here. Be cautious.
Note: If you’re able to bike to and around Ocean Beach, you’ll see a lot of like-minded people doing the same. If you need bike rentals in Ocean Beach, San Diego, Top Jolt Cycle is a well-reviewed option. A popular scenic route is riding along the San Diego River from Ocean Beach all the way to Sea World.
Just promise you won’t go to SeaWorld, though, because Blackfish.
There are also two bus lines available if you really want to get around Ocean Beach on public transportation.
MTS Bus 35 originates at the Old Town Transit Center; MTS Bus 923 originates in Ocean Beach and heads downtown from there. Route maps and schedules are available from the Metropolitan Transit System.
Want an epic map of all the incredible things I’m going to highlight here? Click on the link below. You’re welcome!
GIMME THAT OCEAN BEACH, SAN DIEGO, MAP!
Things to Do in Ocean Beach, San Diego
There’s plenty to do to fill up a day in Ocean Beach, including some of the best people-watching you’ll get in San Diego. Check out my picks for things to do in Ocean Beach, in no particular order.
Hit the beach.
Ocean Beach has a few options for you if you want to partake in some beach times. Which you choose will depend on the beach activities you’re after, keeping in mind that the vibes are chill here.
This isn’t South Beach.
The famous Original Dog Beach, one of the first leash-free dog beaches in the country, is the perfect place if you’re with your four-legged (or three-legged, I suppose, if you have a tripod dog) friend.
Nervous pups may want to avoid the weekends, as the beach can get crowded. If the lot is full, try parking closer to Dusty Rhodes Park off of Point Loma Blvd.
Nearby Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, which you’ll hit on your way to the old Point Loma Lighthouse if that’s on the agenda, is perfect for those looking for a seaside stroll and some of the most beautiful scenery in the city.
Newport Avenue Beach is a popular option for surfers, or those who like to observe. That’s me. I like to observe.
Just a block north of this one, sunbathers will love Santa Monica Avenue Beach, which offers easier access and parking availability than the typically more crowded Voltaire Street Beach.
Families may want to try Saratoga Avenue Beach with its access to amenities and a manned lifeguard station. If you’re looking to get sporty, Long Branch Avenue Beach boasts volleyball posts, although you’ll need to bring your own net. It’s that serious.
Stroll the pier.
If you read my fun facts, you already know the Ocean Beach Pier is special as the longest concrete pier on the West Coast. Take a long walk down a long pier, or grab some fish ‘n chips at the Ocean Beach Pier Cafe.
Fun fact: If you’re into fishing, it’s also one of the only places in San Diego where you don’t need a license to fish.
The pier is also particularly lovely at sunset if you’re heading out later in the day, or got distracted by all the stellar people-watching in OB.
Explore the tide pools.
During low tide, you’ll often find crowds of people crouching down and hopping to and fro from rock to rock underneath the pier.
They’re exploring the tide pools there, one of the most accessible places to do so in San Diego. If you’d like to partake in this popular activity, by all mean go for it.
Just make sure you’re monitoring the tide schedule, and looking with your eyes only…not your hands.
Marvel at the murals.
Ocean Beach has long embraced community art, and you can indulge in all of that with a walking tour of the most colorful, vibrant murals in this part of town.
The easiest way to make sure you don’t miss any highlights is checking out the ready-made mural walk map from the Ocean Beach Main Street Association.
Let me know if you’re able to find my favorites, the parrot and the pelican on Bacon Street.
Embrace your inner hippie and window shop.
The shopping in Ocean Beach is eclectic, to say the least, a nod to the neighborhood’s big warm hug to hippie counterculture.
You’ll find a number of the obligatory surf shops, as you are in a surfer’s paradise down here. You’ll also find a number of shops that boast those hippie vibes, big time.
Pop into places like Sunshine Daydreams, a boho clothing shop, or Botanica Home and Garden for all of your home decor needs.
Best Bars in Ocean Beach, San Diego
Most of my San Diego itineraries include a stop (or two) at the local bars or a brewery at some point. Here are my picks for where to drink in Ocean Beach.
3rd Corner Wine Shop & Bistro
There’s a full menu at this bistro, including a popular Saturday and Sunday brunch. The draw here for me is the extensive wine menu.
They also serve all of their wine in Reidel glasses if that means something to you. I just drink the stuff. They have an additional location in Encinitas if you find yourself up that way.
Kilowatt Brewing
Kilowatt Brewing has wonder a number of accolades for their small batch offerings. You’ll find something for everyone there, pale ales and the fruity varieties, IPAs and Belgian delights.
Their OB tasting room is all kinds of fun, too, as they’re decorated with works from local artists. They have additional locations in Kearny Mesa and Oceanside if you’re heading up that way.
Mike Hess Brewing
This popular San Diego open-air brewery is a great option after you’re done at the Ocean Beach dog beach nearby. Aside from the delicious beer, they even have dog bones for your pup.
Adorable, right?
Mike Hess has additional San Diego locations in Imperial Beach, North Park, and Miramar and if you find yourself in those areas.
Ocean Beach Brewery
This brewery has delicious craft beer, certainly. Their space is pretty killer, too, three stories topped off by a rooftop patio.
They also have a great menu of fancy snacks for you to indulge in to sop up some of that brew. The ceviche is pretty dreamy if you can’t decide.
Wonderland Ocean Pub
If you pick this one you might catch me here with the ladies, as the beach bar with a view has traditionally been a popular spot for the lady friends and I — or is it me and the lady friends — to meet, chat, and throw a few back.
The decor’s super fun, too, as it was inspired by the Wonderland amusement park that was washed away years ago.
They a full menu of pub food, too, but if you’re here for the cocktails as I often am, wet your whistle with a Wet Whistle. It’s delicious.
Where to Eat in Ocean Beach
Sometimes beach neighborhoods lack in the food department, as you’ve got the ocean right there to distract you. That isn’t the case with Ocean Beach. Check out my top picks for the best places to eat in Ocean Beach, San Diego, to satiate even that post-surfing level of hunger.
Blue Water Seafood
This is my favorite fish taco joint in the city. The focus at Blue Water is on fresh fish, which means you’ll find specials depending on the catch of the day.
Note: You don’t have to get fish tacos; they have all kinds of fish-based options, including fish sandwiches and salads with a grilled variety for the healthy eaters.
I’m just saying the fish tacos are THE BEST. The original location is in Mission Hills if you’re closer to that one. Expect a wait no matter which one you choose.
Breakfast Republic
I can’t keep this place from you, even though there are several locations in the city. (They’re now in North Park, Liberty Station, Encinitas, East Village, Carmel Valley, Mission Valley, and Pacific Beach, in addition to here in Ocean Beach.)
Breakfast Republic is just too good, and a no-brainer for breakfast and brunch.
Their monthly specials are always fun, but if I’m feeling like some comfort food, it’s their mashed potato omelet for me. Trust me, it works. Expect a wait no matter which location you’re targeting.
Hodad’s Ocean Beach
Hodad’s boasts the self-proclaimed world’s best burgers. I don’t know about all that, but they sure are delicious. My pick is usually just a single cheeseburger so I have room for a half — or full, if I’ve walked that whole pier — order of onion rings.
There’s another location downtown if you find yourself there and are interested in seconds. You’ll likely encounter a wait at this place, but the line’s usually moving pretty fast.
Takeout’s available, too, if you want to grab a burger and fries for consumption on the beach as you gaze upon some hardbodies.
It’s Raw Poke Shop
It’s a little Hawaiian and a little San Diego at this casual takeout spot on Newport Avenue. The fish at the It’s Raw Poke Shop is fresh and simple. It’s up to you to make your poke bowls how you like ’em, or go for any of their other island-style dishes.
I’m talking about kalua pig, lau lau, and generous heaps of rice to go along with your Hawaiian proteins.
This one is takeout-only, so grab your eats and go to the beach.
The Joint
The Joint is known for having a bit of fun with its cuisine. The premise is a unique one, sushi and tapas on a menu together, the hope being that you’re someone who loves sushi paired with small plates and truffle fries.
I do. I really, really do.
Information about reservations is available online.
Little Lion Cafe
This neighborhood cafe is popular with locals for breakfast and post-surf lunches. Run by sisters, the focus here is on locally-sourced ingredients. If you’re having a hard time deciding, their baked eggs are a delight.
Mike’s Taco Club
It wouldn’t be a food list around here without a taco shop or two. Mike’s Taco Club is a local favorite in these parts, with a pet-friendly patio on site for days when you’re treating your pup to a day at the beach.
You’ll find all of the usuals here, but if you’re famished, they make a mean surf and turf burrito.
OB Noodle House & Sake Bar
OB Noodle House is one of our favorite places in San Diego, let alone Ocean Beach. You really can’t go wrong with the menu, all Asian fusion and delicious, but if you know what’s good for you, don’t miss out on the dumplings.
Also the pho, OB Special style. Also their Vietnamese BBQ. You see what I mean? They have another location nearby, OB Noodle House Bar 1502, but that one has a more limited menu.
Ocean Beach Kabob
Run by a husband and wife, this Middle Eastern spot is the perfect stop for a quick bite or takeout. The highlights are traditional — you’ll find your falafel and your shawarma and yes, your kabobs — but if you’re feeling a burger, they’ve got those, too.
I have a hard time walking away from falafel wraps, though, so you know what I’m doing when I’m there.
Pizza Port Ocean Beach
If there’s a Pizza Port in a neighborhood, I have to include it on these lists.
Pizza Port is one of my favorite local pizza chains, and not only because they’re also a brewery. You can build your own pie or try one of my favorites, like the Pizza Laguna veggie option. Oh, and don’t forget to add on some mac and cheese bites.
If you’re elsewhere in and around San Diego, you can also find Pizza Port in Carlsbad and Solana Beach.
Ocean Beach Events
You may want to plan your visit to Ocean Beach around some of their regular events, or you may want to avoid them if you don’t like crowds or want to make parking easier.
Check out some regular Ocean Beach, San Diego, events below!
OB Kite Festival
The annual OB Kite Festival is the longest-running kite festival of its kind in the United States, with not only kite-related activities galore, but live music and delicious eats to boot.
The festival is held in Robb Field, and includes free kite making and kite instruction for the kids, and impressive kite demonstrations by the professionals.
OB Oktoberfest
OB has its own version of Oktoberfest each year, with two days of bratwurst eating, stein-holding contests and live music, all in celebration of the German culture.
Typically held at the beginning of October, the event also has several beer gardens for the adult crowd, as it’s just not an Oktoberfest celebration if beer’s not involved.
OB Restaurant Walk
If you’re looking for an overview of the eats available in Ocean Beach or just like a little bit of everything when you’re feeling indulgent, it doesn’t get better than the annual OB Restaurant Walk.
A free trolley will take you around the neighborhood if you’re not wanting to hoof it. Tickets do sell out, and often go to support a local fundraising cause.
OB Street Fair & Chili Cook-Off
The OB Street Fair & Chili Cook-Off, typically held at the end of June, is beloved in the OB community. This is Ocean Beach at its best, a gathering of like-minded folks who love live music, supporting local artisans and eating delicious chili.
Fun fact: While the chili cook-off entrants are amateurs, the event is well-known for the quality of the food, and the level of spice in some cases. In fact, there’s an award for spiciest chili. Yipes!
Ocean Beach Farmers Market
The Ocean Beach Farmers Market is the perfect way to acquaint yourself with the OB community. Browse fresh produce, honey and prepared goodies alongside wares that you may not find at the other farmers markets in San Diego. Yes, I’m talking about kombucha.
The market is held every Wednesday from 4-8pm on the 4900 block of Newport Avenue.
Where to Stay in Ocean Beach
We’ve lived in San Diego, so didn’t need to partake in San Diego Ocean Beach hotels.
I’ve done some research for you regardless on well-reviewed options in or near the neighborhood, keeping in mind that there aren’t many traditional Ocean Beach hotels in San Diego. It’s with keeping with those hippie vibes.
In any case, check out what’s available with links from Booking.com:
- The Inn at Sunset Cliffs Blvd
- Ocean Beach Hotel
- Ocean Villa Inn
- The Pearl Hotel (Point Loma)
- Samesun Ocean Beach
If you’d like to do your own research, we primarily use Booking.com for our bookings, as the more you book with them, the more you save. I’ll usually cross-check that with the same (or similar) listings on Hotels.com, to make sure I’m getting the best price.
If you’re looking for something more apartment-style, check out my top picks from Vrbo, my preferred vacation rentals site:
- Beachy Home Near OB Pier
- Beautiful Views of the Ocean and Bay
- Just Blocks to Dog Beach & Newport Avenue
- Crashing Waves & Tequila Sunsets
- OB Condo Steps to the Ocean
I feel like this website guide is pretty good — all rights reserved and all that — but what did I miss? Let me know in the comments!
Planning a California trip? Check out this guide!
Photo credits: Levi Shultz (1), JByard (2), McClean Photography (4)
Ready for San Diego?
Your Flight: I use a variety of tools to find cheap airfare, but if you’re looking to book during a particular period of time, especially during busy times (e.g. school breaks), you should use Skyscanner.
Your Accommodations: I recommend Booking.com and Hotels.com as your main options for accommodations in San Diego, and Vrbo as your Airbnb alternative.
Seeking even more wallet-friendly accommodations? Try Hostelworld. Their picks are heavily vetted and reviewed to offer you a safe experience on a budget.
If you’re looking for more specific accommodation picks, scroll up!
Etc.: For general travel goodies, visit my Favorite Things page. For more information on planning your travel, visit my Travel Tools page.
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