Best Surf Towns?…Think Pacific Beach, San Diego
Have you been dreaming of that epic surf trip to one of the many best surf towns of iconic southern California? Well, your in luck there are lots of them…in this review you will see what it feels and looks like to visit Pacific Beach, San Diego, California. “PB” as the locals refer to it has a youthful feel, great eating, lively atmosphere yet mellow vibe and consistent surf year round. What’s great about any of the best surf towns is that even when you are not surfing, PB will not disappoint.
PB, like many the of the best surf towns tops the list not because it’s home to the best waves, but because the sum of the parts makes it worth visiting. We find that unique and authentic experiences, like these result in epic memories.
A surf trip to Pacific Beach, San Diego..is it for you?
Let us take you on your virtual PB surf trip. Disclaimer: It is much better in person
At Live Swell we showcase the worlds best surf towns though a local’s eye so you know where to eat, stay and play.
Birdseye View of North Pacific Beach and the Condo Capri By the Sea – PB Point is the Headland in the Distance
The PB Boardwalk
- The PB boardwalk is great by foot or bike to enjoy the ocean and the town. Going along the boardwalk you will be greeted by friendly smiles, great food, tasty drinks with ocean views, and some great people watching.
- This is a view of Pacific Beach, San Diego looking South Toward Mexico. Mexico is super close by, so if you’re looking for a detour, Baja is always a great choice.
“Slo-Mo” A local icon
Slo Mo, Dr. John Kitchin, was once a medical doctor that got fed up with the traditional rat race style living and simply decided to pursue his passion. NY Times also did a documentary on Slo Mo, where he talks about his past as a physician and more about “Angular Acceleration” – it’s a difficult to explain feeling, sometimes referred to as “flow,” you get from turning movements in sports like surfing and skating. If you’re lucky you will catch a glimpse of Slo-Mo as he uses his “angular acceleration” to glide down the PB boardwalk by rollerblade living life to it fullest.
Kono’s
- Located near the Crystal Pier
- Kono’s is the perfect PB breakfast and lunch spot, with tons of classic breakfast and lunch items, simply done right.
- I am a huge fan of the Big Breakfast with french toast. It is definitely big enough to split, but if you’re tummy is growling at you, be sure to take it on by yourself.
- Don’t let the lines scare you, a Kono’s experience is worth it, or if you’re smart, just go when its not busy (it does happen)
- And finally, be sure to grab a seat by the ocean patio across from Konos.
Kono’s Big Breakfast! Delicious!
Some PB surfing in one of the best surf towns
The surf breaks can be real fun in pacific beach. As far as consistency goes, this place is top on the list. Most days of the year are ridable due to a wide open window to all swell angles.
Most Epic Surf Towns have great sunsets. This is the view of the drive up to Tourmaline Beach Park. A great spot for beginners and long board slides.
Old Man’s North PB Surf Break
Pacific Beach Swell can get real fun. It is best on the peaky wind swells.
And when the right swell is hitting the left and right off the pier (both sides) can be killer, check out this condo view of Pacific Beach Pier on the South Side. Just remember, you can only surf it early in the AM, as it is a swim zone.
Where to stay in Pacific Beach
As far as places to stay go, it simply depends how close to the beach you want to be. “The Crystal Pier Hotel” has beach cottage style units for rent, literally on the pier, a real unique experience. What would make your trip special? Would it be taking your morning coffee on the deck pier as you watch the dolphins humping down the beach? Or the feel of the waves pushing though directly below?
Pictured below: See the line up of Coastal Cottages at the Crystal Pier Hotel. Maybe your day concludes with a sunset and glass of wine on your private deck?
Crystal Pier gets decked out for the surf holidays!
- Or we always like a place like an Airbnb, so you can chose the kind of accommodation, the price point, and the location. Oh and hopefully, whoever you stay with is a local that can give you even more great Pacific Beach insider tips.
Still hungry? More Places to eat in PB!
With an eclectic mix of local folk, PB holds some pretty good eating options, whether you’re looking for healthy eating or a binge you can find what your stomach is seeking.
In & Out
- In-N-Out is a California classic. It’s the first drive thru stand in California and with locations all over people are still lining up to eat these tasty burgers. If you want to be like a local, order your burger off the “secret menu” animal style! Bet you can already taste it!
The Baked Bear
- Do you have a sweet tooth? Even if you don’t, you will want to go to the Baked Bear and get an ice cream sandwich.
- How do you like your ice cream sandwich? Order yours custom at The Baked Bear
- Our favorite is the chocolate chip cookie on top, brownie on the bottom with coffee ice cream in the middle
- Baked Bear Custom Ice Cream Sandwiches Are a Real Bonus – Brownie with Mint Chocolate Chip…Yes Please.
- Are you picturing your next custom ice cream sandwich right now?
Looking for more places to eat in Pacific Beach? Check out our Top 5 Pacific Beach Restaurants to recharge after surfing.
Getting Around PB
Most of the world’s best surf towns have some level of beach cruiser user base. PB is no different and is big on the beach cruising deal. With plenty of bike paths, it is the ideal way to get around. A surf trip without getting your hands on one could be a big mistake and there no shortage of rental places.
Rusty Spokes is a local custom bike maker. The point is to make sure you get your hands on a beach cruiser its the preferred mode of transport in the area and add’s a lot of value to the experience. Rusty claims to have the “softest cruise on the boardwalk” – see for yourself.
And there you have it, a glimpse into one of the best surf towns, Pacific Beach, San Diego. We will see you on the next surf trip!
If you’re reading this, and thinking, “yeah I get it, PB sounds great. I know it’s better in person, but I can’t afford to go on a surf trip right now!” Well if this is you, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We all want to travel more, but sometimes you need to learn how to travel smarter. So check out The two biggest expenses on surf trips and what to do about it.
And with that, we will leave you with a beautiful Pacific Beach Sunset.
