Best Nature and Parks (RV, National, Dog, etc) in Ocean Beach

"Just fifteen minutes’ drive west of downtown San Diego, you can find a stunning stretch of coastline known as the Sunset Cliffs. Now protected as a natural park, the area is named for its steep coastal cliffs that look out over the ocean and is a very popular place to watch the sun set over the Pacific. Tumbling their way down to the ocean, the sheer cliffs and craggy coastal bluffs certainly make for a dramatic sight with hidden coves, tidal pools, and beaches lying at their foot."

"It gives you plenty of vantage points to enjoy the sunset and watch the waves crashing against the cliffs. There’s an arch you can jump off during the summer and a secret (not-so-secret) sea cave/sinkhole (that you can explore at your own risk). More: Comprehensive List of San Diego Beaches"

"Although the beach below this steep hillside waterfront park is nicknamed Garbage Beach, it is anything but. However, a visit to this beautiful spot has to be earned. The descent is so steep that a fixed rope has been installed for safety."

"Famous for being a great winter surfing spot, Black’s Beach is even more famous for being a nude beach. Access is a bit tricky, but if you have the fortitude, it’s definitely worth the effort. Try not to gawk at the “nakes” as they are known, and no cameras, please; nudity is completely natural, and there is no need to make it awkward for anyone!"

"Beneath the bluffs of Torrey Pines in La Jolla is a hidden gem. Black’s Beach, a swimsuit-optional beach, stretches from Torrey Pines State Beach at the north end to Scripps Beach at the south end, making it the largest nude beach in the United States."

"The southern section of Black’s Beach, also known as Torrey Pines City Beach, is accessible through a gate at the intersection of Blackgold Road and La Jolla Farms Road."

"Hike to the top of Cowles Mountain for prime panoramic views of San Diego County. At 1,593-feet, the summit is the highest peak in all of San Diego, California. The three-mile hike is a rather strenuous switchback-style uphill trek, but the incredible views are worth the effort."

"Located in Balboa Park, the Japanese Friendship Garden is a relaxing spot to spend an afternoon in San Diego. The garden was built to represent the friendship between San Diego and its sister city in Japan, Yokohama, and provides a unique and chilled out experience for visitors. Besides its zen atmosphere and impressive garden and architecture designs, the Japanese Friendship Garden hosts regular events throughout the year, such as yoga classes, meditation sessions, and the San Diego Sake Day."

"There is an extra fee to enter the Japanese Friendship Garden, which is an expression of friendship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama. There’s an upper and lower strolling path where you can see koi pond, landscaped gardens and a Zen garden viewing deck. It’s a very tranquil space."

"The elegant Japanese Friendship Garden is also worth a visit. Grab lunch at The Prado, located within Balboa Park., and try to get a table on the outdoor terrace."

"OceansideThis classic, family-owned fish and chippery in Oceanside’s South Harbor is proof that waterfront dining doesn’t need to be a pricey affair. Portions are generous and everything is delicious, just be prepared to defend your food from seagulls that patrol the area, especially if you sit outside. Sign up here for our daily San Diego email and be the first to get all the food/drink/fun in town."

"Two locations but the La Jolla one has the view - I mean THE VIEW!!. If you want a fancy ocean view dining experience with killer fresh seafood and steaks then head over to Eddie V’s. OK, yeah, it’s a chain sort of like how Ruth’s Chris’ is a chain but this location is pure San Diego and the seafood is hard to beat."

"High-walled, sapphire-blue velvet booths, at tables 112 or 122, form a protective cocoon for you and your sweetie, while smooth-as-silk live jazz from the lounge drowns out the rest of the world. The Headquarters, 789 W. Harbor Drive, downtown San Diego."

"Don't be put off by the name, or that it is part of a small chain. This fine-dining restaurant at the Headquarters at Seaport in Downtown has...Read More"

"Of all the La Jolla coffee shops, Brick & Bell is the first to open each morning, warming to life well before the crack of dawn as expert bakers are extracting scrumptious scones from their glowing ovens by 4:00 am. This tiny brick house near the seashore is a beloved local hangout due to its posh coffee bar, homey outdoor patio, and welcoming vibes. Beyond legendary mochas, they also offer fresh juices, fruit smoothies, Italian soda, and a breakfast menu riddled with mouthwatering sandwiches, but most importantly, do not leave before getting your hands on a baked goody!"

"This super cute one-story house has been revamped into a quaint coffee shop with lots of great choices for food and coffee. But what keeps me coming back here is their outdoor seating that’s sheltered from the street by plants and trees and feels like sitting in the coziest backyard ever. Seriously, I think if inner peace were a place, this is what it would look like."

"This was my first time trying Thai food and the food was sooooo good, like exceptionally good. Definitely going there again. The employees go above and beyond..."

"Sometimes mom and dad want a bloody Mary or mimosa with breakfast. While on vacation, indulge in a greasy, calorie-laden breakfast with a cocktail at MaryJane’s Diner in the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego. Even their omelets seem imbued with some sort of magic potion (cream, I suspect)."