Some people might say they dream of living in a beach community where the party never stops. But in Pacific Beach, visitors and residents make this a way of life. Chill shoreline vibes are a must here. Flip-flops are preferable to dress shoes. Carrying your surfboard to and from the waves is a lot more socially acceptable than schlepping a briefcase to and from a meeting. Pedestrians and bicyclists definitely own the road, and there’s always a volleyball game happening somewhere. Boardwalks are more important than sidewalks.

With over 320 sunny days per year, coupled with pleasant offshore breezes, one might conclude it’s the incredibly pleasant weather that shapes the culture of Pacific Beach. Or maybe they would say it’s the great waves that attract world-class surfers. The answer is all of the above and so much more. You’re at the SoCal shore now, and it doesn’t get finer than this. Check out just some of the many things to do in “PB,” as the locals lovingly call it.

Beach Bumming

Strolling along the shore in Pacific Beach can mean many things. Walk ankle deep where the sand meets the sea so you can get your feet wet. Stay high and dry on the Oceanfront Boardwalk by bike, on rollerblades or by simply hoofing it. Step into a seafood joint or burrito shack just off the strand. Explore the piers that take you far out over the water. Or just find some cliffside spot where you can sit down and take in the view.

If you want to get more active, stake out a spot on the beach proper. Work on your tan or maybe play some paddleball. Frequent a surf shop or two and chit chat with folks over board sizes and wave conditions for the day. Wander into a pub for a burger and trade stories about going tubular. Or maybe find out where the best beach bonfires are happening after sunset. There are also fishing spots, yoga classes, souvenir stores, boutiques – and oh yes, watersports, too!

Taking the Plunge

Did we mention there’s great surfing at Pacific Beach? Both serious surfers and the watersport-curious will find everything they need, from pro shops and lessons to a tide that almost always obliges with awesome waves. If you’re more into bodysurfing, you’ll be in good company alongside loads of water bathers and swimmers. Paddleboard just offshore is also incredibly popular.

Perhaps you need to take things deeper? Watersports in Pacific Beach can range from the adventurous to the extreme. Rental outlets offer up all levels of watercraft. Kayakers get the chance to explore the shore under their own power. Jet skiing is huge here, with folks zipping across Sail Bay at top speed. And speaking of sailing, everything from skiffs to powerboats and yachts is also available. Fishing charters, SCUBA – find just about anything under and over the water you might want to do in the PB.