San Diego's Central Beach Neighborhoods

Three iconic beaches, each with their own distinct vibe, make up San Diego’s central beach neighborhoods: Mission Beach, Pacific Beach and Ocean Beach. They are often referred to by locals as simply Mission (or South Mission), PB and OB. Mission Beach is home to bustling Belmont Park with carnival games, food stands and the famous Giant Dipper roller coaster, as well as sand volleyball and beachside basketball courts. Pacific Beach, connected to Mission Beach by a beachside boardwalk, is home to the iconic Crystal Pier, and is popular with surfers, boogie boarders, swimmers and families. Garnet Avenue and the surrounding streets offer lively bars, restaurants, shops and more. Farther south, Ocean Beach has the most laidback vibe of San Diego’s central beach neighborhoods, anchored by Newport Avenue’s funky array of dive bars, restaurants and surf shops. It’s also home to a dog-friendly beach and several waterfront tennis and pickle ball courts.