San Diego is well-known for having some of the best beaches in California. The warm water, gorgeous view, shining sun, and great food spots nearby are all factors in San Diego’s fun. Our beaches are a key part of the SoCal culture. People from all around the world come to visit San Diego beaches, but they are most beloved by locals, like students at our very own San Dieguito Academy.
Some of the favorite beaches among SDA students include Moonlight, D Street, Beacons, Cardiff, and Swami’s. Though the “best beach” in our area is a widely debated topic, most people can agree that the ideal beach has good waves for surfing and swimming, is normally not crowded, and has food nearby. Good beaches should also be sandy rather than rocky, because really, who wants to step on rocks?
Many of the popular beaches at SDA are located in Encinitas. One of these beaches is Moonlight, which is known for its large crowds and its great beach days. Aivry Scott, sophomore, says, “My favorite beach is Moonlight because there’s a lot of things to do nearby. You can play volleyball at the courts, get ice cream and boba from Gelato 101, and…also get pizza and sushi nearby. There’s also a lot of space at the beach to hang out with your friends.”
Sophomore Darla Cammins agrees with Scott, stating that the volleyball courts were a great place to play a game with friends and that the water is really nice. “Also, there’s a snack shed for people to get food,” Cammins adds. “And…you can rent things like volleyballs, chairs, boogie boards, and much more.” From its volleyball courts and playground for kids to its fire pits for nightime bonfires, Moonlight Beach is always a fun and busy spot for a beach day.
Cardiff Beach is also a buzzing spot popular amongst SDA students. Junior Edie Brady revealed that she enjoys going to Georges – a Cardiff beach spot – because it’s normally uncrowded and perfect for a calm beach day. Cardiff Beach stretches about two miles, making it a popular destination for a nice long beach walk with family or friends. “My favorite beach is Cardiff because…the waves are great there, and it’s really close to my favorite pizza spot, East Coast Pizza,” explains Haley Himstreet, junior. Not only is Cardiff a great spot for surfing, swimming, and enjoying the sun, but it’s also beloved for its scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and nearby restaurants and shops. The beach is also known for its tide pools, where you can explore and discover marine life.
Another beach many SDA students enjoy is Beacons, which is known for its beautiful cliffs, great surf breaks, and relaxing atmosphere. It’s popular amongst surfers and those looking for a calm beach day, and it’s also a great place to search for seashells, driftwood, and other treasures washed up by the ocean. Junior Jordan Rausa stated that he likes Beacons because he can go spear-fishing and surfing there.
While these three beaches we’ve discussed are SDA favorites, there are many other great spots out there. If you’ve never been to one of these beaches before, it’s time to grab your bathing suit and towel, and go find out for yourself which is your favorite.