DK Travel : San Diego : Outdoor

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Silver Strand State Beach

Between Coronado and Imperial Beach, miles of the “Strand” attracts families with its wide expanses, gentle waves, fire rings, surf fishing, grunion running (see Children’s Attractions) and, unique to San Diego beaches, clamming. The name Silver Strand comes from the tiny silver shells that dot the sand on the oceanside. Pedestrian tunnels lead to the beach on the bayside, where the water is warmer and calmer.
Sportfishing

Albacore, yellowfin, and halibut are just some of the fish in the offshore waters. Summer and fall are the best months, and half-, full-, and multiple-day trips are all available. A fishing license is not required to fish off the public piers.
Spreckels Park

Named after John D. Spreckels (see John D. Spreckels (1853–1926)), who donated the land, the park hosts Sunday concerts during the summer as well as art and garden shows. An old-fashioned bandstand, shady trees, green lawns, and picnic tables complete the picture of a small-town community center.
Surfing

San Diego’s beaches are famous for surfing. The months with the strongest swells are in late summer and fall, ideally under offshore wind conditions. Designated surfing areas can be found at every beach.
Swimming

Nothing beats an ocean dip, though the temperatures seldom exceed 70º F (21º C) even in the summer. Alternatively, you can find swimming pools at most hotels. The Plunge at Mission Beach is a great public pool.
Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve

Serene hiking paths meander through fields of wildflowers and native plants. More than 300 species of migratory birds stop by at different times of the year. A visitor center offers information to enhance your visit.
Torrey Pines State Beach

Miles of sandy beaches and secret coves nestle beneath towering sandstone cliffs. During low tide, tide pools offer a glimpse into life under the sea. Torrey Pines is a San Diego favorite because of its lack of crowds, intimacy, and natural beauty. Parking is available at the Torrey Pines State Reserve (see Torrey Pines State Reserve) or by the gliderport on top of the cliff.
Torrey Pines State Reserve

The view down the wind-eroded cliffs and across the Pacific is magnificent.
Torrey Pines State Reserve

A stretch of California’s wild coast (see Torrey Pines State Reserve) offers a glimpse into an ancient ecosystem. Wild-flowers bloom alongside hiking trails that lead past rare Torrey pines and 300 other endangered species. Viewing platforms overlook sandstone cliffs to the beach below. Spot quail, mule deer, foxes, and coyotes.
Windansea Beach

Legendary among surfers for its shorebreaks, this beach found literary fame as the setting for Tom Wolf e’s The Pumphouse Gang. The beach gets a little wider south of the “Shack,” a local landmark, but those with small children should still take care.