Beach walks / trails and restaurants near Pacific beach

Question

Hello, we are a couple from the UK staying in the pacific beach area. We love a coastal walk and a nice restaurant and cocktail!

Just looking for general advice and tips. I have looked at La Jolla, Torres pines, boardwalks, sunset cliffs. We won’t have a car so will use uber or public transport where needed.

Thanks in advance.

Answer

Pacific Beach is a lively neighborhood in San Diego with easy access to beautiful coastal walks, casual beach vibes, and plenty of dining options. Since you won’t have a car, Uber and public transport are convenient ways to explore nearby areas like La Jolla, Sunset Cliffs, and Torrey Pines.

Coastal Walks and Trails:

Pacific Beach Boardwalk: A flat, scenic walk along the oceanfront from Pacific Beach to Mission Beach. Perfect for a morning stroll, people-watching, and enjoying the surf. About 3 miles one way, but you can turn back whenever you like.
La Jolla Coast Walk: Uber or bus to La Jolla for stunning cliffside views. Easy walks around La Jolla Cove offer seal and sea lion spotting. Ellen Browning Scripps Park nearby is perfect for a gentle walk with ocean views.
Sunset Cliffs: Famous for dramatic cliffs and ocean vistas. Trails are mostly paved or easy dirt paths, excellent for sunset photography. Best reached by Uber from Pacific Beach (~15–20 min).
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: Offers a mix of easy and moderate trails with breathtaking views over the cliffs and ocean. The Guy Fleming Trail is very easy and only about a mile, suitable for a casual walk without hiking gear.

Restaurants and Cocktails:

JRDN at Tower23 Hotel: Upscale beachside dining with a great cocktail menu, perfect for a sunset view.
Oscar’s Mexican Seafood: Casual, popular spot for fresh fish tacos and local favorites.
Firehouse American Eatery: Cozy spot near the boardwalk with cocktails and relaxed ambiance.
Pier Cafe & Bar: Located in Mission Beach, easy to reach from Pacific Beach; casual and kid-friendly with ocean views.
Polite Provisions: Trendy cocktail bar in North PB with expertly crafted drinks and stylish décor.

Tips:

Walk or rent bikes along the boardwalk for a fun way to explore without driving.
Uber is very convenient for La Jolla or Sunset Cliffs, especially if you plan to visit around sunset or evening when parking is limited.
Wear comfortable shoes for cliff walks; some paths are uneven.
Bring water and sunscreen for coastal walks, especially in summer months.

Overall, Pacific Beach offers the perfect balance of casual beach walks, easy access to nearby scenic trails, and lively dining and cocktail spots, making it ideal for a relaxing couple’s stay without a car.

Beach walks / trails and restaurants near Pacific beach

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