More than 32 million people visit San Diego each year, making this one of the most popular Southern California vacation destination spots. And of those visitors, the vast majority want to spend at least some time at the Pacific Coast beaches that San Diego is famous for — which means that many of the top beaches in the area are crowded, no matter when you go.
If you are looking for a quieter atmosphere and a more secluded beach, then you will want to know where to find the hidden gems in this sprawling city. Below, we detail the 10 least crowded beaches in San Diego, to best help you plan for your upcoming beach trip.
1. Seascape Beach
- Address: Multiple access points along Seascape Beach, San Diego, CA 92109
- Parking: Public parking available at nearby lots and street parking near beach entrances
Located in the Solana Beach neighborhood, Seascape Beach is one of the best-kept secrets in San Diego. The beach itself is only accessible through a long flight of stairs that stretches down the side of the dunes, making it more difficult for some people to reach. While it may not be the most accessible beach, those who are up for the adventure are rewarded with a peaceful and private beachfront experience.
Wide stretches of sand ensure that everyone can find their own space on this beach and some of the most popular activities include sunbathing, strolling, swimming and surfing. The waves are usually relatively low on Seascape Beach, making this an excellent spot for novice surfers.
2. Border Field State Park
- Address: 1400 Monument Rd, San Diego, CA 92154
- Parking: Public parking available at the park entrance with a daily fee
Border Field State Park is situated in the southern-most corner of San Diego, right along the United States-Mexico border. Since it's a little bit further off the beaten path, it's become one of the best San Diego beaches for low crowds. The beach itself stretches for more than 1.5 miles along the Pacific Coast and it is known for its peaceful, private atmosphere. The pristine coastline is juxtaposed by rolling sand dunes and thriving marsh lands, allowing beachgoers to enjoy some of the most spectacular natural views in San Diego. While all of the traditional beach activities are popular at Border Field State Park, what really sets this beach apart is that it's the only place in the city where visitors can go horseback riding right along the shore.
3. Stan's Beach
- Address: 1610 Strand Way, San Diego, CA 92109
- Parking: Public parking available nearby, including metered street parking and small lots
Situated in the heart of Coronado Island, Stan's Beach is a surprisingly quiet beach. Most visitors on the island tend to spend their time at Coronado Beach, due to its close proximity to the iconic Hotel de Coronado. However, this beach can be found just south of Coronado Beach and it is often overlooked by tourists who are distracted by the glitz and glamor of the island.
With its gentle sea breezes and wild waves, Stan's Beach is a favorite among visitors who want to go surfing, body boarding or swimming. Of course, its sparkling white sands invite sunbathers to rest and relax for a while as well. But perhaps the most notable feature of this beach is the fact that it's home to the SS Monte Carlo shipwreck. The remains of this ship rest just below the surface, becoming visible during low tide and captivating the imaginations of beachgoers from San Diego and beyond.
4. Terramar Beach
- Address: 1000 Coast Blvd, San Diego, CA 92037
- Parking: Public parking available nearby, including street parking and small lots
The Carlsbad neighborhood is known for its gorgeous beaches — many of which are crowded, no matter when you visit. Terramar Beach, however, is the exception in Carlsbad. Tucked away in a more residential area, Terramar Beach is considered to be one of the best San Diego low crowd beaches.
Offering a laid-back vibe and plenty of space to catch the waves, Terramar Beach is a favorite among surfers who are looking to escape the crowds. Surf board rentals are available, so even if it's your first time, you will find that this is an inviting place to try to hop on a board.
Recently, tide pools have formed along the shores of Terramar Beach, so if you happen to go during low tide, you can check out the incredible creatures who call these tide pools home. You may see sea stars, crabs or maybe even an octopus darting around the tide pool.
5. 15th Street Beach
- Address: 15th St, Imperial Beach, CA 91932
- Parking: Public parking available nearby, including street parking and small lots
In Del Mar, there's a tiny strip of beach that many people are not aware of. To find the 15th Street Beach, you will need to find the pathway that is tucked between the bluffs and walk the trail until you hit the coastline. There's not much sand here, which is why you won't find a lot of families lounging on the beach or sunbathers soaking up the sun. However, it is an excellent spot for surfing and swimming. If you'd rather stay dry, come to this beach at sunset and enjoy a romantic stroll along the surf. You won't regret watching the sun go down over the Pacific as you soak up the idyllic atmosphere at this hidden beach.
6. Black's Beach
- Address: Torrey Pines Gliderport Access, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037
- Parking: Public parking available at Torrey Pines Gliderport lot with a fee, plus limited street parking nearby
If you are up for a challenge, you may find that Black's Beach is one of the best San Diego beaches for low crowds. Located in La Jolla beneath the bluffs in the Torrey Pines State Reserve, Black's Beach is only accessible via the Glider Port Trail. It's a steep trail that is recommended for hikers with some experience, but those who are willing to embark on the adventure are rewarded with a secluded beach and unparalleled Pacific views.
It's worth noting that Black's Beach is a clothing-optional beach, so you probably won't find a lot of families or young children at this beach. It's a welcoming and inclusive beach, though, so if you are ready to experience it, it's worth the effort.
7. Torrey Pines State Beach
- Address: 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037
- Parking: Public parking available at the Torrey Pines State Beach lot with a daily fee, plus limited street parking nearby
Located next to the Torrey Pines State Reserve Park, Torrey Pines State Beach is one of the least crowded beaches in San Diego and one of the best beaches in La Jolla.
The coastline here is set against the backdrop of cliffs and pine trees, setting it apart from many of the other beaches in Southern California that are dotted with palm trees. Boasting a coastline that stretches for more than 3 miles, this beach has plenty of space for everyone who wants to enjoy it. Visitors frequently come to the beach in order to surf, sunbathe, swim or stroll along the water's edge.
8. Casa Beach & Wipeout Beach
- Address: 2150 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
- Parking: Public parking available at nearby lots and metered street parking near beach entrances
For those who are content to soak up the views but would rather not maneuver the crowds, Casa Beach and Wipeout Beach in La Jolla are the perfect choices. While these may be some of the best San Diego low crowd beaches, it's important to be aware that both are known for their strong currents and wild waves. Swimming and surfing are not recommended at these beaches, particularly for travelers who may not be familiar with the waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Rather than splashing and playing in the water, you should spend your day relaxing on the sand and enjoying the views. If it's low tide, you may be able to observe tide pools forming along the shoreline. In addition, you may see sea lions and seals venturing over to the beaches from the nearby Children's Pool. It's fine to watch these magnificent creatures from afar, but don't get too close. They are wild animals and can be territorial.
9. South Ponto Beach
- Address: 1260 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
- Parking: Public parking available at nearby lots and street parking near beach access points
Easily accessed off Historic Highway 101, South Ponto Beach is a hidden gem in Carlsbad. While many travelers find themselves at the more well-known North Ponto Beach, those who make the journey to South Ponto Beach will enjoy a gorgeous stretch of sand and a relaxed vibe.
South Ponto Beach has a tendency to attract active beachgoers who want to exercise and play sports while at the beach. On any given day, you will see bikers cycling along the trails and people playing beach volleyball in the sand. Experienced surfers often find that this is an ideal place to go surfing, due to its larger waves and lower crowds.
10. Silver Strand State Beach
- Address: 5000 Hwy 75, Coronado, CA 92118
- Parking: Public parking available at the beach lot with a daily fee, plus additional parking at nearby lots
At the southern end of Coronado Island is Silver Strand State Beach, a quiet area that has earned the reputation of being one of the best San Diego low crowd beaches. While many other beaches in San Diego feature endless Pacific Coast views, Silver Strand State Beach offers both ocean access and bay views. On the bay side of the beach, the waters are significantly calmer, making it a favorite spot among families who want to swim, kayak or paddleboard along the water's edge. In addition, this beach boasts a 10-mile bicycle path, allowing visitors to cycle around the beach as they soak up the incredible views.
You don't have to leave this beach when the sun sets. As the evening arrives, many people on the beach crowd around the nearby fire pits in order to enjoy lingering conversation and maybe even roast a few marshmallows as the stars come out.
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