Berries and More at the OB Farmers Market
Adventure seekers, couples, families and even solo travelers will love all that Ocean Beach and the Ocean Beach Hotel has to offer its guests!
Whether you want to sunbathe on the beach, surf or bodyboard in the waves, or visit the local farmer’s market, the Ocean Beach Hotel is the perfect starting spot for so many of San Diego’s most popular things to do.
Here are a few things I suggest you try during your next visit to the Ocean Beach Hotel!
Kids sitting in an oversized chair in Ocean Beach
Right Outside the Property
With direct beach access from the hotel, there are countless beach activities you can enjoy with the hotel still in view. Here are some of our team’s favorite beach activities we think you should consider.
Go Beachcombing
Before the sun rises, take a stroll along the Pacific Ocean's waters to collect different items, such as shells and sea glass, for unique souvenirs.
Try Water Sports or Beach Activities
The beach in front of the hotel gives guests access to many popular water sports, such as beach kayaking, boogie boarding, surfing and more.
If you’d rather stick to the sand, the beach is perfect for sunbathing or for a more active afternoon, there’s a volleyball area on the north end of the beach. For families, kids of all ages can build sand castles and wade in the gentle waves of the shoreline.
Cast Your Reel at the Pier
Bring your rod and reel to the Ocean Beach Pier for some morning fishing or consider booking a deep-sea fishing tour.
Ocean Beach Municipal Pier is one of the few places in San Diego where you can fish without a valid California fishing license.
Ocean Beach Pier Closure
The Ocean Beach Pier, or as locals know it the ‘OB Pier’, has faced needed renovations for some time. In April 2024, plans were unveiled for a brand new pier to include a Surfers’ Lounge, Infinity Plaza, and new café & restaurant that will be known as ‘The Island’.
While no official timeline has been set, it’s looking like the work will begin in 2026, with the current pier remaining closed for safety and to limit any further damage until that time.
With this new information, unfortunately fishing off and strolling on the pier won’t be possible in the near term.
Very Fun Roller Coaster at Belmont Park
Nearby the Property
Conveniently located just a 15-minute drive from San Diego International Airport (SAN) and other popular San Diego attractions, the Ocean Beach Hotel is the perfect place to park your suitcases and explore everything San Diego has to offer.
Here are some of our team’s favorite nearby activities.
Explore the Ocean Beach Farmers Market
Visit the famous Ocean Beach Farmers Market on Wednesday evenings for live music, crafts, fresh fruit & vegetables and made-to-order food items.
Go Surfing
A few miles from Ocean Beach is one of the most popular beaches in San Diego for learning how to surf - Mission Beach. I will say that while it’s perfect for a surf lesson or beginners, it can get crowded and intermediates and experienced surfers might enjoy the many surf beaches in La Jolla like Blacks Beach or the iconic surf breaks at Windansea a good but more.
Honestly though, give the Ocean Beach surf right outside the hotel a try!
The beach is known for surfing with a variation of breaks – OB Pier, Main OB Break & Avalanche. Main OB Break has beach-break waves that go both right and left and are good for most surfing skill levels.
With lifeguards on duty for safety, I say leave the non-surfers on the shore for a picnic and go catch a couple waves!
Make a Stop at SeaWorld San Diego
Spend the day at one of the most popular theme parks in San Diego, SeaWorld San Diego. Located in nearby Mission Bay Park, you can see marine mammals, ride heart pumping and kid-friendly rides, plus learn more about conservation efforts that make the park truly special.
Before you go, be sure to purchase a Go City San Diego pass to take advantage of discounts to SeaWorld San Diego and other popular San Diego attractions. Save on your next visit to the San Diego Zoo, Belmont Park, museums, kayak and paddle board rentals and more.
Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to enjoy even greater savings.
Visit the San Diego Zoo
Speaking of family-friendly San Diego attractions, the hotel is within driving distance of the world-renowned San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park which is perfect for a family day trip.
Balboa Park is also home to more than a dozen educational museums plus trails, cafes and surely a healthy dose of San Diego’s sunshine!
Go for a Ride at Belmont Park
Take a short drive or grab a rideshare north to visit Belmont Park on Mission Beach. San Diego’s historic beachfront theme park features an iconic wooden roller coaster, games and more!
Take in the View at Sunset Cliffs
A visit to Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, located just over 3 miles to the south of the hotel, offers hiking trails, breathtaking views and picturesque sunsets which are perfect for an evening outing.