Best San Diego Beaches for Families to Enjoy Time Together

San Diego is known for many things, but above all else, it’s known for its spectacular beaches. Nothing is better than a beach day with the family, lying on a towel with your picnic cooler nearby, soaking up some sun, or staying protected beneath a shady umbrella. If you’re itching for a day at the beach, here are some of the best San Diego beaches for families to consider!

4 of the Best San Diego Beaches for Families to Make Great Memories

La Jolla Shores

La Jolla Shores is a one-mile stretch of beautiful sandy beach in the heart of La Jolla. It’s known for its gentle summertime waves, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and surfing. In fact, it’s the kick-off site for the La Jolla kayak tour of seven sea caves and a perfect place for anyone wanting to dip their toes into surf lessons. 

During the winter, you can explore a group of La Jolla tide pools known as Dike Rock during low tides. The beach itself is a gorgeous picnic spot, and there’s plenty of grass at Kellogg Park nearby. Families will love the playground area and convenient showers and restrooms. You can also grab a spot by one of the beach’s fire pits for an extra special sunset beach experience. 

A father lists his daughter on a beach at sunset while mom holds hands with their son behind him on one of the Best san diego beaches for families

Coronado Central Beach

Coronado Beach sits against the beautiful backdrop of Hotel del Coronado. This 1.5-mile-long sandy beach is popular with families, swimmers, surfers, and, of course, sunbathers. It’s a pretty flat beach, too, so it’s ideal for a long walk along the shore. It has lifeguards on duty from 9 AM until dusk, so you can have peace of mind as your loved ones play in the water. 

There are bathrooms and showers nearby, as well as some fun tidepools that are worth exploring if your timing is right! At the far north of the beach is the Coronado Dog Beach, perfect for a beach day with your furry friend! 

A mom and dad sit in the sand on a beach with their young son and daughter in their laps at sunset

Moonlight SB

Moonlight State Beach got its affectionate nickname from the residents visiting the shore in the middle of the night to picnic under the stars. Their year-round lifeguards make this beach accessible in any season, and their designated “swimming only” area is perfect for wading and splashing. 

There’s an excellent playground for families with little ones and fire rings for anyone looking for a cozy way to close out a beach day. Anyone seeking a slightly more competitive beach experience will love their tennis and volleyball courts with exceptional ocean views!

A mother and father walk down a wet beach holding hands with their young son and daughter in matching outfits on one of the Best san diego beaches for families

Mission Bay Park

Mission Bay Park is an incredible 4,600-acre aquatic playground – the largest of its kind in the world. Enjoy water sports like sailing lessons, kite surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, and more. Gather your family for a beachside bike ride, barbecue, or picnic next to the water. 

Mission Bay Park is surrounded by 27 miles of stunning shoreline, with plenty of shopping and bordering beach communities nearby. It’s a bustling park area that is irresistible to anyone who visits. Also an absolute must-see for San Diego residents and tourists! 

Best San Diego Beaches for Families

These are some of the best San Diego beaches for families. I can guarantee that a trip to anyone will make many great memories. Pack your picnic basket and sunscreen and hit the road while the weather is still glorious!! 

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