Moonlight State Beach Yelp/Stephen A.
Sand, surf, and sun go hand in hand in California. If you’re searching for some of the best beaches in California, look no further than North County San Diego. There are miles of pristine sand and clear water to enjoy swimming, surfing, and just about any other ocean side activity you’d like. But, if you thought a beach was just a beach, then you’ve never visited North County San Diego. Each beach has unique qualities that make it stand out. If you’re planning a visit, check out these best beaches North County San Diego has to offer.
Carlsbad State Beach
As part of the California state park system, the Carlsbad State Beach is a protected beach located in Carlsbad.Carlsbad is often referred to as one of San Diego’s best kept secrets. There is so much more to do here than just work on your tan. Popular activities at the Carlsbad State Beach include surfingand picnicking.
Each summer many people also flock here for the bluff-top campground. This tends to book up quickly, so if you’re hoping to visit this summer, call soon for a reservation because it’s a great spot for families. Getting from the campground to the sand is easy with stair access to the beach. Restroom and shower facilities are also available at Carlsbad State Beach.
Buccaneer Beach
They say good things come in small packages and that’s just the case at Buccaneer Beach as it is Oceanside’s smallest beach with a lifeguard tower. During the summer, the water right in front of the lifeguard tower is reserved for swimmers, waders, and body boarders only, making a great spot for water sports enthusiasts.
There is an area marked by checkered flags that is goof for surfing and other water activities as well. This area is also popular with families because of the nearby park full with jungle gyms, a basketball court, and picnic spots.
Fletcher Cove
Fletcher Cove serves as the main beach park in of the city of Solana Beach which includes three other beaches. It was actually carved out of the surrounding bluffs with hydraulic hoses to create the only walk-out beach in Solana. . The locals refer to Fletcher Cove as “Pillbox”, a nickname for the World War II concrete gunnery installations on the bluff.
While it’s not an especially large area, it is a prime spot for those who love to exercise as there is plenty of room to swim, surf, body board, jog, or go kayaking.There is also a kids play area as well as picnic tables that overlook the ocean. A concrete ramp takes you down from the park to the beach area. The Solana Beach Train Station is also within walking distance making this beach easy to get to from other areas.
Del Mar City Beach
Del Mar is home to two miles of beautiful coastline with stunning views from the historic coast Highway 101. The main section of Del Mar City Beach starts at Powerhouse Park and stretches all the way to the lagoon entrance at the San Dieguito River. The northern part of Del Mar City Beach from 15th street to The River Mouth is a great spot for swimming and surfing; Del Mar City Beach is lined with bluffs below 15th street.
A dirt path that runs parallel to the train track on the bluff is a favorite for both walkers and runners because there are no cars to look out for or any roads to cross. While Del Mar City Beach has plenty of spots to get in your daily workout, it also has plenty of sand to just relax and catch some VitaminD!
Moonlight State Beach
Located in Encinitas, Moonlight State Beach got its name because locals used to come to the area for midnight picnics in the early 1900s. This large family-friendly beach is a favorite because of the gradual slope that makes it safer and more fun for kids to play. When the little ones want a break from the sand, head over to the park where there is plenty of grassy space for the kids to run around. Volleyball is big at Moonlight State Beach with its three sand volleyball courts.
Surfing is also allowed, but only outside of the swimming-only zone. Moonlight State Beach is one of the few beaches that has fire pits. You can also rent recreational equipment here and grab a snack at the snack bar. There is plenty of parking, but it fills up quickly so if you’re planning to visit for the day, get there early.
The next time you’re looking for that sand, surf, and a whole lot more, check out one of these best beaches in North County San Diego!
