Stretching along the Pacific Ocean and bordering the western edge of Point Loma University, Sunset cliffs is a 68-acre city park in San Diego, California. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park has brought unique geological features to the community since its opening in 1983. The park includes beautiful carved coastal bluffs, arches, and sea caves. The combination of the bluffs, arches, and sea caves creates an unforgettable stroll and an ideal sunset spot. However, many visitors don’t know that this area is also home to several secluded beaches and surf spots. The views from the top are wonderful, but you aren’t getting the entire local experience if you don’t make it down to the water. Lucky for you, I have put together this guide because everyone should have the opportunity to explore and appreciate the entirety of Sunset Cliffs. I will be constantly adding more spots to this list, so make sure you remember to come back for more.
No Surf Beach:
No Surf Beach is located in the Sunset Cliffs Neighborhood, between Hill and Froude streets. There are two access trails down. One trail is located in the center of the beach and the other is located on the south end of the beach. Both trails are steep and it is important to be careful while you are walking down. I recommended the trail found on the south end as it is less steep. Despite the name, there is actually a popular surf break at the very center of the cove. However, it is an area for advanced, local surfers. If you are unfamiliar with the area and/or you are an inexperienced surfer, you will find this spot very challenging and dangerous. But don’t worry, San Diego has plenty of surf breaks for every level! If you’re not surfing, No Surf Beach is an excellent place to spend the day sunbathing and enjoying the views. Another reason to visit No Surf Beach is to check out the tide pools. During low tide, you will find excellent exposed tide pools. It is common to see anemones, snails, crabs, fish, and even octopuses. In fact, low tide is the best time to visit this beach. If the tide is too high, the majority of the sand will get covered by the water, leaving you minimal room. Additionally, when the tide is in the negatives there is an opportunity to explore some hidden sea caves (I will discuss these caves and their secrets next week).
Garbage Beach:
The easiest access to Garbage Beach is the staircase at the end of Ladera Street and Sunset Cliffs Boulevard, but locals will know of a roped route to access to a sandy section of the beach. This is personally one of my favorite surf spots in San Diego. The paddle out is very long, but there are plenty of channels making it a bit easier. Surf at garbage is divided into two main breaks, north and south. North garbage produces long rights and south garbage produces long lefts. During a swell, this is the place to be as you can get some incredibly long rides. Also, the kelp beds often help the conditions stay clean longer than other spots in the area. Not only are the waves fun, but the views from the lineup are breathtaking. However, the downside of surfing garbage is that the lineup sometimes gets very crowded, especially during a swell. It’s such an amazing wave, so I understand why it can get so crowded sometimes. If you’re not surfing, the area is beautiful and you can spend your day relaxing while watching the surfers. Also, garbage is located near a beautiful hiking trail overlooking the ocean. The hiking trail is located directly south of the staircase.
Come back for more recommendations. No Surf and Garbage Beach are two of my favorites, but I have over 60 more acres to share with you. Follow @alysse.dodge on Instagram for updates.
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