Links to OB & Surf Sites

Photo by Judith Jaskowiak, photo cards available for sale Ocean Beach, or OB to the locals, has a unique personality among San Diego beach communities. Life just moves a bit slower in OB and the residents like it that way. Fast-food chains are prohibited by resolution of the Ocean Beach Town Council. OB strives to attract businesses that are compatible with its bohemian flavor.
5047 Newport Ave, 1/2 block from pier

Ocean Beach has been and still is pretty much a hippie, liberal, middle-class beach community that loves dogs and isn't terribly fond of big business. Locals have protested against the likes of chains such as Starbucks. You won't find any fast food here either.
What this eclectic beach community does offer is a "dog beach" for dogs to roam freely without fear of the long arm of the law, a long fishing pier, a beautiful shoreline and tons of fun beach activities. Swim, surf, play some volleyball or picnic, Ocean Beach is casual and hip, and has some interesting characters, antique stores, surf shops, assorted shops and restaurants along Newport Avenue.
The beach attracts a good mix of families, visitors, locals and fishing folks. It has lifeguards, restrooms, showers and disabled access. Separate swim and surf zones are set up. Check out the tidepools south of the pier. The boardwalk, north of Newport Avenue is a great way to take in the local flavor.

There are a few basic laws to remember when visiting Ocean Beach:

1. Alcohol may be consumed but only between the hours of noon and 8 p.m. Alcohol consumption is prohibited at all times on the boardwalk and on or against the seawall.
2. You may have your dog on the beach but only before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m. During permitted hours, dogs must be leashed at all times and don't forget to clean up after your pets.
3. Fires are permitted on the beach but must be contained either in a city-provided concrete fire square or in an approved container that keeps the fire high enough above the ground so the sand does not become dangerously hot.
4. Glass beverage containers are never permitted on any San Diego beach. For those with disabilities the Ocean Beach lifeguard station provides a special fat-tired wheelchair designed for rolling over soft sand.
Read the Ocean Beach article in March, 2002 Sunset Magazine, with mention of Jungle Java.