Ocean Beach

The locals’ rule in the downtown area of Ocean Beach, and the small number of visitors that flock here will tend to feel like they're part of the neighborhood. There are only a handful of quiet, sleepy motels and inns in the town, no high-rises or impersonal corporate resorts.

The Famous Hodads Burger Joint in Ob

Not to Miss Restaurants

Hole in the wall restaurants is what OB is all about. There are a few stand out eateries that you should check out.

Hodads is the quincentennial local burger joint in OB. Most of the time there is a line but it is well worth it. If you love burgers you need to try this place.

OB Noodle House & Sake Bar is another institution in Ocean Beach. Located on Newport Ave only a few blocks from the famous OB Pier. This Asian Fusion restaurant is famous for well it's noodles. Don’t miss this one.

Fresh Strawberries and Produce at the OB Farmers Market

Farmers Market

Another big draw to the Ocean Beach area is the legendary farmer's market. The market is open all year long, every Wednesday from 4 PM to 8 PM. The farmers market gives visitors the perfect activity to spend their weeknight evening.

Visitors can dine on local foods, pick up fresh fruits and vegetables and experience live music while walking through the booths of the market. Coming here, people will find out why this is one of the most popular farmers markets in Southern California.

The weekly farmers market is only steps away from Ocean Beach's pier and the Pacific Ocean. It's centered at 4900 Newport Avenue, between Cable and Bacon Streets. Along the Avenue, shoppers will be able to get made-to-order food, such as teriyaki, paella, pizza and other festival food options.

The market also features art booths, with handmade crafts and other decorative pieces. Visitors can purchase plants, cut flowers, baked goods, clothing and other market goods.

The entire time visitors’ shop, they can listen to the sounds of different styles of music and other live acts from around San Diego. The market truly brings a lively street fair atmosphere to Ocean Beach every week.

Locals regularly shop at the market, so it's got to be good. It makes for a great stop in between visiting Mission Beach and Downtown San Diego.

Nearby Attractions

Attractions and things to do are plentiful and close to Ocean Beach and its neighboring town, Pacific Beach. Ocean Beach is closer to popular spots like Sunset Cliffs, Mission Beach and downtown San Diego. Additionally, nearby Pacific Beach to the north is close to gorgeous La Jolla and the coves of the region.

The world-famous amusement park, Belmont Park in Mission Beach, is only a few minutes away, giving families and people of all ages a fun way to spend the afternoon away from the sand and overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Park Just next to Beach at OB City Beach

The sightseeing in and around Ocean Beach, San Diego, is top-notch. There are unique attractions right within the neighborhood’s borders and the most popular San Diego spots are only a short drive away. The biggest draw for visitors is Ocean Beach's pristine coastline and all of what the Pacific's waters offer.

In and around the town, visitors can experience adventure, culture, cuisine, history and nature. With year-round mild temperatures, visiting the San Diego area and Ocean Beach is possible at any time of the year. Sightseeing is best when the crowds are lower in the spring and fall.

Sunset Cliffs

The most popular sightseeing spots in Ocean Beach provide visitors with interesting stops to add to their itinerary. Sunset Cliffs is a hidden beach spot nestled along the San Diego cliffs. Catch a California sunset here while going on a short hike.

Cabrillo National Monument & Point Loma

Next, visitors can make their way south along Point Loma to check out Cabrillo National Monument and the associated park. The spot features tide pools, hiking and history exhibits.

On the other side of Point Loma is top attraction, Shelter Island. This small tourist area has a boat launch area for day cruises and fishing tours, restaurants, art and cultural exhibits.

Local Coffee Shop in OB

History & Culture of OB

History and culture buffs will get to satisfy their appetites with some of the sights in and around the town. Ocean Beach features a self-guided historic walk and gives visitors a close-up view of the early days of the resort town from the beginning of the 20th century.

Then, they can check out the murals of Ocean Beach to experience avant-garde street art. The self-guided mural walk takes visitors throughout the town and into the world of mural art.

Popular San Diego Attractions

After touring some of the spots local to Ocean Beach, it's also easy to go further afield and check out what else San Diego has to offer for sightseeing. Visitors can dine at the world-class San Diego restaurants. They also can visit some of the most iconic San Diego attractions, such as SeaWorld San Diego, the San Diego Zoo, Belmont Park in Mission Beach, the La Jolla Cove and Torrey Pines State Reserve Park.

If you are looking to visit multiple places you should consider buying the San Diego Go Pass. This pass will get you discounted entry into over 50 different activities and attractions in San Diego. It includes many museums in Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, Belmont Park and even the SeaWorld San Diego. You can save up to 55% off of the regular attractions prices and if you purchase through our link you can get an additional discount.

Downtown San Diego

In downtown San Diego, there is also Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, the Gaslamp Quarter and dozens of green space parks for all ages to enjoy. Staying in Ocean Beach gives visitors access to a wealth of sightseeing opportunities within walking distance and even more by car.