Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
moderate
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
10 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
1 600 m
Frequently asked questions
Ocean Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity moderate, average temperature +18.0°C, warms up to +21.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Ocean Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — strong. Average wave height — 1.4 m. Strong waves will please surfers but require caution when swimming with children.
Ocean Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — moderate. The shallow area extends for 10 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable.
Ocean Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 1 600 metres.
Ocean Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in July. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is August. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Ocean Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as moderate. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Ocean Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: stingrays. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Ocean Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Ocean Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Ocean Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Hodad-s, South Beach Bar & Grille. Cuisines available: Burgers, Mexican. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Ocean Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, First aid kit.
Ocean Beach: when is the best time to swim?
In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people. In the evening — exceptional sunsets.
Ocean Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Littering is prohibited. Swim only in lifeguarded areas. Check water quality advisories.
Ocean Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: diving, surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Ocean Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for surfers and active holidaymakers. Suitable for walks and sunset watching. Not recommended for families with small children or non-swimmers — strong currents.
Ocean Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Ocean Beach is home to the longest concrete pier in the world — 1,971 feet (601 metres). The pier was built in 1966 and is a symbol of the neighborhood.
Ocean Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Longest concrete pier, Powerful waves for surfing, Bohemian atmosphere, Developed infrastructure, Lifeguards year-round, Exceptional sunsets. Cons: Dangerous swimming, Strong rip currents, Water pollution after rain, Crowded, Parking problems.
Ocean Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Ocean Beach Pier, Sunset Cliffs Park, Dog Beach. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Ocean Beach: how do I get to the city of San Diego?
The beach is located near the city of San Diego. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for San Diego.