When it comes to beaches, there are many cities on the list, but only a few truly occupy the top spot. And among this coveted few is San Diego City, a city famous for many things. Commercial, historic, and cultural destinations and attractions, a diverse culture and population, and an overall welcoming atmosphere. Perhaps above all else, however, San Diego is most famous for its numerous beaches. These beaches are as diverse as the city's people, offering a wide variety of options for beachgoers of all ages.

Beaches dot the whole county, from the north county's Carlsbad, Oceanside, and Encinitas beach areas, as well as Solana Beach, all the way to the south county's Imperial Beach, and some of the most popular major beach destinations, which include Mission Beach, Ocean Beach, Pacific Beach, and La Jolla, Del Mar, and Mission Bay beach areas.

Pacific Beach is a beach favored not just for its surf and sand, but also for its famous boardwalk. The 3 miles of boardwalk is dotted with a number of establishments, from hip bars and clubs, to dining venues featuring everything from fine foods to mouth watering casual dishes. This diversity of venues make the boardwalk popular among college students and young adults who wish to experience a good taste of the California life, beach experience included.

Ocean Beach is yet another popular beach, favored by, not just humans, but also dogs! This small-town style beach famous for its very casual, laid back, and friendly atmosphere, is a favorite for surfers, swimmers, sunbathers, and even pet lovers. Ocean Beach has Dog Beach, a beach where dogs are allowed to frolic in the sand and surf with their masters. Dog Beach enforces strict pet rules, like picking up after the dog, and making sure the dog is disciplined and trained. And if these rules are followed, the dogs can be allowed to enjoy themselves unleashed.

Mission Beach is a beach that many West Coast folk consider to be the closest thing to a classic East Coast beach. Mission Bay is often thought of as the West Coast's answer to Atlantic City, or Coney Island, and it is not without reason. Before, Mission Beach featured carnivals, concession stands, and a circus. These venues eventually turned into condos, fancy restaurants, and other shops, though the circus remained for people to enjoy.

Mission Beach should not be confused with Mission Bay, which is yet another beach area that people can enjoy in San Diego. Once an area that lured mariners to their doom, Mission Bay is now an aquatic playground that covers 4,200 acres of land and water, connected by waterways, inlets, and islets. It has 27 miles of meandering shores and beaches, and is the location of the Sea World Adventure Park, and Fiesta Island and Leisure Lagoon. It is an end all, be all location for beach lovers looking for a full blown vacation destination, with its many hotels, picnic areas, shopping centers, parks, playgrounds, and more.

Those visiting San Diego should definitely visit any of these beaches, and discover the others! San Diego's beaches are among the best in the West Coast, and will cater to everyone's needs and interests.