Vacationing at beach campsites in San Diego can be a lot of fun! If this is your first time in San Diego and you’re out looking for the best beach spots, then look no further.
Overview:
Here, we will break down everything you need to know before you venture off. Including how to prepare ahead of time and what to look for before you start that beach vacation trip.
If you’re looking for that perfect beach campsite there are a couple of things you should keep in mind when starting out.
Beach Camping in San Diego California
San Diego, located in southern California, is known as one of the most busiest yet nicest cities in all of California. Besides its endless amount of activities, the beautiful weather, and the busy city life, you should definitely make time for a trip to the beach. The beaches account for one of the most visited places in all of California!
Why?
Well, because not only is the weather nice, but the beach towns are very hip.
Don’t be caught off-guard like many others. Equip yourself with our top favorite 5 essential beach must-haves and avoid common beach pitfalls! 🏖️🌞🌊
1. YETI Wheeled Cooler: Keep your drinks and snacks chilled under the sun.
2. Kelty Tent: Seek refuge from the sun with a lightweight, easy-to-set-up beach tent.
3. BeachBub Umbrella: Stay cool and protected with a durable, stylish UPF beach umbrella.
4. Trailhead Chair: Sit back and relax with a comfortable and sturdy beach chair.
5. CGear Sand-Free Mat Sand Blanket: Keep the sand at bay and stay comfortable with a sand-resistant blanket.
Some of the best beach campsites are located north of San Diego, so be sure you do your homework and definitely plan ahead of time. Whether you are a local or a first-time tourist, there are some nice campsites to choose from.
With water temperatures warming up in the summer, the best time to go would be either in the summer or spring.
But which beaches are worth visiting?
San Diego is made up of more than 70 miles of coastlines where thousands of people flock each summer.
What do these beaches offer?
Beautiful ocean views, sweet camping sites, and unbelievable fun with your family. Plan now.
The earlier you plan then the better chance of you getting the sweeter camping spots facing the ocean. You can definitely reserve ahead of time. Most San Diego beach campsites allow you to reserve 6-7 months in advance.
Things to know about beach camping sites in San Diego
Summer is the busiest of the month. With July being the hottest month of the year. One of the many things you should be aware of is that mosquitoes do enjoy warmer weather. So they may be out in the evenings. Plan accordingly when venturing out.
Summer weather can sometimes be perfect, but other times it can be extremely hot depending on what part of San Diego you’re in.
Although the weather near the beach can be cooler than expected, it’s best to dress with layers before you venture out.
Some of the campsites in San Diego only allow RV camping, so if you do go out, make sure the campsite you choose allows you to do some tent camping.
Most of the coastal campsites in San Diego have laundry services so make sure you do your homework and check ahead of time.
What to bring on your next San Diego Beach camping trip
Camping can be tough if you have never done it before. Yet with a little preparation, you can definitely prepare ahead of time and bring all the necessary things you need.
- mosquito repellent
- extra pair of clothes
- camping chairs to sit down
- nice camping blanket
- extra batteries for your electronics
- a tent
- bicycles
- Healthy snacks
The best-voted campgrounds in San Diego beaches
South Carlsbad State Beach
This beach has definitely made one of the top lists in many people’s minds. If you are not too familiar with Carlsbad State Beach then be sure to read this article right here. It will explain everything you need to know before you go.
The beautiful thing about Carlsbad State Beach is that this campsite allows tents and RVs. Unlike some other campsites that only allow RVs, this one will allow you both.
The view is considered one of the most beautiful to see. The 360 panoramic view is breathtaking. So if you are a sunset catcher then definitely pick a spot overlooking the ocean.
One more thing, this is one of the busiest campsites and the spaces are pretty close to your neighbors. There are about 200 camping sites here. Best book ahead of time to get the campsite of your choice.
Location: Carlsbad, California
Type of Camping: Tent and RV
Cost: ~$50
Other: bluff-top campsite, fire pits for your hotdogs and s’mores, camp-store
Distance from San Diego airport: ~32miles
San Elijo State Beach
San Elijo State Beach is also located in San Diego County. It is very popular among many families. Hence, you will see many different children playing.
The reason why this has become one of the most popular campsites in all of San Diego County may be very well because of its 360 panoramic views of the ocean.
If you do book ahead of time, you will most likely get the campsites facing the beach. There are many neat things about this camping site.
There is a taco stand and a camp store located right inside. But if you need any more things you can most definitely walk to the seaside market which is located right across the street.
There are many restaurants within walking distance so plenty of places to eat.
Location: Cardiff Beach, CA
Type of Camping: Tent and RV
Cost: ~$35/night + reservation fee
Other: Seaside Market is located right across the street.
Distance from San Diego Airport: 28 miles
San Onofre Bluff Camping site
One of the more isolated camping sites is located north of Camp Pendleton and very close to the San Clemente area. The drive is more North
County, but definitely worth the drive if you have not been there. The thing that makes this camping special is the fact that the isolation becomes so surreal.
You may hardly see people on the beach or surfers. Summer may be busier than usual but overall it is one of the quietest campsites of all the ones listed in San Diego County. Because of how beautiful this beach is, there really is no other campsite like it.
There are 334 camping sites with fire pits and even picnic tables. Booking can be done in advance as well.
Location: North of Camp Pendleton
Type of Camping: Tent and RV
Cost: ~$40/night
Other: there are some pretty neat trails that will take you right to the shore
Distance from San Diego Airport: ~60miles
Campland on the Bay
Located in Mission Bay San Diego
Located in Mission Bay, one of the most popular parts of San Diego County. Not only has Mission Bay increased in popularity over time, it has become one of the hottest spots to do some camping.
Though this camping site is not located on the beach per se, it is on a bay, but that does not kill the illusion of camping by the water and enjoying the perfect scenery.
This camping site is close to Mission Beach, but the bay area has been seen as one of the most updated camping sites there is. With the accommodation of swimming pools, a hot tub, showers, laundry facilities, and even WIFI there is no reason to be bored.
Bicycle rentals are located not too far away, making it easier to really soak in the outdoors.
Location: Mission Bay
Type of camping: Tent and RV
Cost: ~$60+
Other: Located on the bay, and very close distance to Seaworld San Diego
Distance from San Diego Airport: 10miles
Silver Strand State Beach
Located in the gorgeous beach area of Coronado. Though considered one of the most gorgeous beaches in all of San Diego, the camping site does have some limitations. For one tents are NOT allowed. ONLY RVs, Motorhomes, and trailers.
So if you do have a tent. It is probably best you check out other beach campgrounds. But for those that do have an RV hook up then this may be your type of beach campsite to check out.
This place has also become very popular with hiking and biking. There is a very known trail called the Bayshore Bikeway which includes 24 miles of flat riding ground.
You can also walk or jog the path, but it has become popular with mostly riding. On the campsite, there are 135 sites and over 1000 parking spots.
Location: Coronado, CA
Type of Camping: RV, Trailer, Motorhome ONLY
Cost: $50/night
Other: cool 24-mile biking trail
Distance from SD Airport:15-20 miles
Conclusion
San Diego is famous for its sweet weather and beaches making the beach camping sites more popular over the years. Who doesn’t want to sleep under the stars next to the ocean? I’m sure everyone would like to try it if they haven’t already.
One of the coolest things about camping at the beaches if that you get to unplug and relax in nature. Sure, some of the camping sites are more updated than others but depending on what type of camping you are looking at, they can all be different.
One word of suggestion: if you do decide to go camping, then it is best to book ahead of time. Once you know the dates then do not hesitate to make an effort for booking.
If you do plan on heading out during summertime, those spots tend to fill up fast.
Of course, there are things to note before you start your beach camping adventure in San Diego. Not all campsites are alike, they all differ in location and popularity.
San Diego weather can fluctuate, especially in the summer. Do prepare accordingly. There are some very hot summers so make sure you bring the right clothes and gear.
One tip would be to dress in layers. That way if you do forget something or it either gets too cold or hot, you can layer on and off. Some nights will be really chilly so just be prepared in case you do have a chilly night.
Also, beware of mosquitoes. They do come out at night. I have not been the luckiest person avoiding these. Make sure you bring a bug spray that will allow you to avoid these little blood-sucking guys.
Things to bring with you on your next camping trip. Do not forget to bring the essential camping site things. It can make all difference between a not-so-fun camping time and having an amazing time. Bring an extra pair of clothes, and extra battery chargers for your phones.
Remember to have fun and enjoy your time camping. Get out there and enjoy the outdoors! It can definitely make a difference in how you feel.
Tell me… have you tried any of these camping places? Which one is your favorite.?
If you would like to check out other cool beaches, then check out this popular beach here.
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