Flights to San Diego

As if Southern California didn't have enough charm to lure visitors from all corners of the earth, San Diego's one-of-a-kind Mission Beach is an easy choice for those who can't get enough of cool California culture.

This beach is a long, wide stretch of sandbar between the Pacific and Mission Bay. Spanning the strip of land is Mission Boulevard, packed with shops, restaurants, bars and clubs.

Finding something to do on Mission Beach is never hard. Some visitors love long strolls on the oceanfront boardwalk, while others scout out courts for volleyball or basketball.

The area is beloved by bicyclists, skateboarders, surfers, kiteboarders, and even those who like to fish. Active types of all kinds gather at Mission Beach just to be in the heart of the action.

For the occasional thrill, check out the amusement rides in Belmont Park, home to classic wooden roller coasters alongside more modern thrill rides. If you're a fan of beachfront dining, snag a seat at one of several outdoor cafes along the boardwalk; otherwise choose from a wide range of options clustered around Mission Boulevard.

And who can forget the major attractions nearby, such as the San Diego Zoo, the Cabrillo National Monument, and of course, San Diego's vibrant downtown area?

There's only one tough thing about Mission Beach: parking. Several public lots can be found close to the beach, but you'll need to get there early to claim a spot.

It may be tempting to park in a residential neighborhood, but be sure to read signs carefully. Alternatively, you can simply take a taxi or public transit to the beach.

Also, a few rules: Alcohol consumption on the beach, as well as nudity and thong bikinis, are prohibited.

Though Southern California—and San Diego especially—is known for hip, laid-back beaches and beach-town atmospheres, it doesn't get any better than Ocean Beach. Crowds of young bohemian beach-lovers congregate here to surf, socialize and savor everything about this far-out place.

Just seven miles northwest of downtown San Diego, Ocean Beach is made up of a one-mile stretch of sand, but it's not at all monotonous. Each section of the beach offers a distinct experience.

Dogs can run wild and free at Dog Beach, a famed section that was the first official leash-free beach haven in the nation. Those traveling as a family flock to Saratoga Avenue, with its grassy area (great for a picnic!), lifeguard stations, bathrooms and showers. Boogie-boarders and bodysurfers take advantage of the waves at this end of the beach.

Large, stunning cliffs are the main draw at the Santa Cruz Avenue stretch, and if it's fantastic views you're after, you'll find them here.

When it's time to get your grub on, head over to Voltaire Street, which is the starting point for most people venturing to Ocean Beach. Here you'll find tons of dining and drinking options, as well as plenty of opportunities to shop.

If you can't find what you're looking for in this area, head over to Newport Avenue, with its own stretch of bars, restaurants and nightlife spots.

Be sure not to miss the Ocean Beach pier. From the pier's end, you can get a great view of the overall beachfront as well as the ocean and its rolling waves. The pier is home to a popular diner, so grab a seat and watch the spectacular sunset.

Driving to Ocean Beach? No problem—there are numerous parking lots along the stretch of beach, so finding a spot shouldn't be an issue. Free parking can be found at the end of Voltaire Street, along with bathrooms and showers, making it a one-stop shop before you head out to the beach.