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During the week, South Pacific Beach can be peaceful and scenic. On the weekends, especially during warmer months, South PB becomes a little wilder. Weekend crowds are often rowdy as alcohol flows freely from local establishments like Lahainas and the Open Bar.
There are still some family-friendly sections of the beach at the far north end near the lifeguard tower and Crystal Pier or at the south end, south of Pacific Beach Drive. But the easily offended may want to avoid the center of activity around the bars.
South Pacific Beach has year-round water activity zones. The area from Crystal Pier four blocks south to Reed Avenue is a 24-hour swim zone, although during early morning hours the swim zone is not well enforced due to limited lifeguard staffing. If you want an early-morning swim you may have to contend with a few surfers.
Water activity zones change somewhat during the summer months. Pay attention to the location of the black-and-yellow checkered flag. On San Diego beaches, the lifeguards use this flag to delineate between a surf zone and a swim zone.
There are usually a couple of dangerous rip currents in the water off South Pacific Beach. If you are not an accomplished ocean swimmer be sure to ask lifeguards which areas are safe.
There are a few basic rules to remember when visiting South Pacific Beach:
1. Alcohol may be consumed but only between the hours of noon and 8 p.m. Alcohol consumption is prohibited at all times on the boardwalk and on or against the seawall.
2. You may have your dog on the beach but only before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m. During permitted hours dogs must be leashed at all times and don't forget to clean up after your pets.
3. Fires are permitted on the beach but must be contained either in a city-provided concrete fire square or in an approved container that keeps the fire high enough above the ground so the sand does not become dangerously hot.
4. Glass beverage containers are never permitted on any San Diego beach.
Food/dining: South Pacific Beach has many excellent restaurants, including World Famous at the foot of Pacific Beach Drive, Joe's Crab Shack, T.D. Hays and the Fire House Cafˇ at the foot of Grand Avenue just to name a few. Breakfast at Kono's at the foot of Garnet on the boardwalk (just north of the pier entrance) is a must for anyone who wants a true Pacific Beach experience.
Restrooms: These are located in the parking area at the foot of Pacific Beach Drive and on the first two levels of the lifeguard station at the foot of Grand Avenue.
Pacific Beach Drive north to Garnet Avenue and Crystal Pier [Map It]
Accessible 24 hours a day; no camping
A few public spaces at the foot of PB Drive and Grand Avenue, and along Ocean Boulevard (the boardwalk) between Thomas and Grand, plus street parking further inland
619/221-8899
FACILITIES: [Legend]
Beach Information
Special Comments: Bounded by historic Crystal Pier at its northern extreme, South PB stretches toward Mission Beach about a mile to the south. While Crystal Pier is privately owned, it is open during the day to the general public. The pier is definitely worth a walk past the motel rooms to the end and is a favorite vantage point among the locals for watching the sunset.