Pacific Beach

Pacific Beach is a community unto itself, with a personality that makes San Diego look staid. The beach is awesome, of course, with year-round lifeguards and separate sections for surfing and swimming. Pacific Beach spans from Crystal Pier to Mission Beach on the south side. Between the beach and the town is a paved boardwalk that runs for several miles. It's popular for rollerblading, bicycling, jogging, walking and people watching. Inland, there's a plethora of groovy boutiques, fun beach bars and restaurants. The beach is within walking distance of Tower 23 and other small hotels, but residents usually walk or bike.