San Elijo Campground

While this park isn’t known for its epic mountain biking paths, there is nothing wrong with a lovely shoreline meander. There is a small path that runs alongside the beach that is great for roller blading, biking, and running, and can be a nice alternative if you need a break from the salt and sun.

Motorized boating isn’t really a thing here (there are no launch spots), but you can definitely explore via paddle. Check out the kayaking, canoeing and SUP sections for more information.

Sun on your back, sand under your toes, and the surf up to your knees, which, along with the mist off the breakers, keeps you cool in the SoCal heat as you work on perfecting your cast. Back at your chair there is a refreshing beverage and a good book waiting, and the rest of the afternoon, stretched in front of you golden and warm. Is there anything better? Well, maybe if you catch one of these license, of course), but be sure to keep to the land: there is no kayak or boat fishing here.

Surf’s up at this park, which is home to the Pipe, one of the best spots along the coast to catch a great ride. Need proof? The park actually houses the Eli Howard surf school, where aspiring surfers of all ages can hone their technique (it also offers a surfing summer camp, which we think sounds pretty awesome). Check out the forecast here, then grab your board and hit the waves, dude!

Let’s be real: swimming is the main event here. San Diego is famous for its mild, year-round climate, which makes the beaches delightful just about any time of year. One of the GREAT things about this park is that, aside from a small daily visitor lot, it’s really only campers enjoying the beach. Depending on the time of year, that can mean you might have the shoreline just about to yourself (summers are, of course, extremely popular). So, whatever you do, don’t forget your swimsuit, grab your boogie board, and hit that gorgeous surf.