Mission Beach

An excellent way to spend down-time in San Diego is to head to this beach, where you can enjoy quaint shops and cafes along Ocean Front Walk, which spans the area between Mission and Pacific Beaches. Shaved ice (not crushed ice) that's sold here makes for a refreshing snack, and good people-watching opportunities abound since rollerbladers, cyclists, runners and sun worshipers can be found in large supply. Expect activity here and plenty of young adults having a good time, though the expansive white sand and conveniences like lifeguards, fire pits, showers and restrooms draw families too. They even have a limited amount of beach-friendly wheelchairs available at lifeguard stations.