Ocean Beach - San Diego, California (OB)

Address:San Diego, California

Welcome to Ocean Beach, where peace and tranquility infuse all areas of life. In fact, you'll hear natives use the term "O.B." in place of the more common "peace out" or "catch you later."

Ocean Beach is all about the holidays and festivals. Halloween and New Year's Eve are considered high holy days, and the Christmas Parade and the 4th of July fireworks are not to be missed. There's also the annual O.B. Chili Cookoff in late June, a jazz festival in September, and the O.B. Kite Festival in March.

But even if you show up on a non-holiday day, Ocean Beach will be thriving with low key life all around. Kids and adults alike can be seen splashing in the clear waters, and surfers ride the waves in designated areas. Fishing is allowed without a permit from the Ocean Beach Pier, where there is also tackle shop and restaurant. Other restaurants, surfshops, and locally owned commercial stops can be found near the pier at the south end of the beach.

There's even a special beach for dogs at Dog Beach, located at the north end of Ocean Beach. There dogs are welcome to run around leash-less all day, every day. Just be responsible and clean up after your pooch! Also near the north end of the beach is a volleyball area, so bring your pet and bring your ball!

A lifeguard keeps careful watch all year round, and with special sand wheelchairs available and other handicap considerations, Ocean Beach is not only your neighborhood fun spot, but is safe as well. Just beware of rip currents which can be strong in the San Diego area.

There is ample parking along the entire one mile strip of Ocean Beach, as well as public transportation that will bring you straight to the water (or pretty close!).