Best 5 Beaches for San Diego Renters

Looking for a rental apartment in San Diego? Or maybe you’re already enjoying life in this lively coastal city. Wherever you are in your renting journey, one thing’s for sure — San Diego’s beaches are a huge part of what makes living here so special. From scenic escapes to laid-back local hangouts, we’ve rounded up the best beaches for renters to explore and enjoy:

• Coronado Beach
• Fletcher Cove
• Black’s Beach
• Ocean Beach
• La Jolla Shores

With average temperatures in the mid-70s year-round and hardly any humidity, it’s easy to see why San Diego tops the charts as one of the most pleasant places to live in the U.S. That perfect weather is just one of the many reasons renters are drawn to the area. Add in 70 miles of stunning coastline and sandy beaches, and you’ve got a lifestyle that feels like a vacation every day.

What many people don’t realize is that San Diego is home to more than 30 beaches. To help you make the most of life outside your apartment, here are our top five picks where you can relax, recharge, and enjoy everything this sunny city has to offer.

Coronado Beach

For renters who enjoy a touch of old Hollywood charm, this beach is a must-visit. Set against the backdrop of the iconic red-roofed Hotel del Coronado — famously featured in Marilyn Monroe’s classic film Some Like It Hot — it’s easily one of the best beaches in San Diego. The soft, powdery white sand is naturally blended with mica, a mineral that creates a beautiful, golden shimmer that sparkles under the sun all year long.

Not only is it visually striking, but it’s also one of the widest beaches in the city, offering plenty of space to stretch out and relax. Because of its size, it almost never feels crowded, even on weekends, making it a top choice for a peaceful solo escape, a romantic picnic, or a laid-back family beach day. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long week or soak up the sun in a spot steeped in Hollywood history, this beach delivers an unforgettable coastal experience.

Fletcher Cove

If you only step out of your apartment for unforgettable sunsets, this beach is calling your name. Nestled in Solana Beach — one of Southern California’s friendliest coastal towns and a former home to Bing Crosby — Fletcher Cove is a local favorite. Located at the end of Lomas Santa Fe Drive, it borders a scenic park and offers sweeping sunset views that attract both residents and visitors alike.

To reach the beach, simply walk through the park, past the playground and free parking area, then head down the ramp — and just like that, you’re ready for a perfect day by the ocean. Whether you’re a renter or just passing through, Fletcher Cove is a great place to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy the best of San Diego coastal living.

Black’s Beach

If you’ve got a surfboard in your rental apartment, this is one beach you’ll want to check out. Nestled between Torrey Pines State Beach and La Jolla Shores, Black’s Beach is named after the Black family, who once ran a horse farm on the bluffs above. Getting there takes effort — the steep descent from the Torrey Pines Gliderport isn’t easy, so it’s not ideal for families. It’s also one of the few San Diego beaches where clothing is optional, giving it a laid-back, free-spirited vibe.

What makes Black’s Beach a standout for experienced surfers are the deep underwater canyons just offshore, which create strong, consistent waves. Secluded, scenic, and known for epic surf, it’s perfect for renters looking for something off the beaten path.

Ocean Beach

If you’ve just moved into a rental in San Diego and want to dive into the local scene, Ocean Beach is a great place to start exploring. Known to locals as “OB,” this beach has a laid-back, old-school SoCal vibe that offers a true taste of coastal living. It’s a go-to spot for longtime residents, curious tourists, and skateboarders alike, all drawn in by its friendly, come-as-you-are atmosphere and unique charm.

Ocean Beach stands out as a favorite hangout thanks to its welcoming energy, surf culture, and strong sense of community. The surrounding area is filled with beachside restaurants, quirky surf shops, casual bars, and a vibrant nightlife — giving you countless reasons to step outside your apartment and enjoy a full day by the ocean. Whether you’re there for the food, the sunset, or just to soak in the local vibe, OB delivers a sun-soaked experience, making it one of the best beaches in San Diego.

La Jolla Shores Beach

If you’re a renter raising children, this beach should be at the top of your list. La Jolla Shores is a mile-long stretch of soft, sandy coastline located in the charming seaside community of La Jolla — a neighborhood that perfectly blends Southern California’s laid-back spirit with family-friendly appeal. It’s widely considered one of the best beaches in San Diego for families, thanks to its calm, welcoming atmosphere and variety of kid-friendly activities.

From beachside picnics and sandcastle building to kayaking and paddleboarding, there’s something here for everyone. Parents can relax while kids splash in the gentle waves, and the sunsets are truly unforgettable. With its gradual shoreline and mellow surf, La Jolla Shores is also a favorite spot for beginners learning to surf — the perfect excuse to finally take down that surfboard hanging on the wall of your rental apartment and give it a try.