Ocean Beach often referred to as OB, is a funky seaside town which sits between the Pacific Ocean to the west and the more upscale enclave of Point Loma on the hill to the east. Although Ocean Beach sits on prime waterfront real estate, the neighborhood still exudes a small-town atmosphere, making it an ideal place to live and visit. Where other beach communities have embraced commercialism, Ocean Beach remains fiercely independent and skeptical of wholesale change. You're more likely to see a food co-op than a fast food chain.
Ocean Beach was given its name by developers Billy Carlson and Frank Higgins in 1887. The beachfront was the main attraction, although in the early 20th century, getting to Ocean Beach was a bit of a trek. Another draw was Wonderland, an amusement park at the northern end of the neighborhood that was washed away in 1916. Cottages, bungalows, and apartments were built through the years and attracted students, surfers, and free-spirited types. OB was somewhat isolated from the rest of the city until Interstate 8 was built in the mid-1960s.​ Ocean Beach is fondly looked upon as the neighborhood that time forgot, and it still has that hippie vibe—a carryover from the 1960s and '70s that never really left.
What to Expect
Just minutes from bustling urban life, this laid-back neighborhood feels like a small town.
The residential areas of Point Loma are peppered throughout the peninsula, and concentrated in several distinctive neighborhoods. There’s Point Loma Heights, Loma Portal, the pricy bayside ‘hood of La Playa (including Shelter Island), Wooded Area, upscale Sunset Cliffs, historic Roseville, and the new live-eat-play hub of Liberty Station. But no matter where you land, the entire peninsula feels separate and insulated from San Diego city proper—and that’s just how the residents like it. The streets are quiet, the beaches are uncrowded, the surfing is excellent, and the seafood is plentiful.
The Lifestyle
Hiking, shopping, surfing, and sunsets galore, plus easy access to the airport and downtown.
This small beach town is a favorite among locals who spend their days surfing, sunbathing, hiking nearby Sunset Cliffs and strolling through the many shops, restaurants and antique malls. Ocean Beach has a throw-back groovy vibe of vintage SoCal, coupled with friendly locals, great dining and micro brews, and a vibrant nightlife scene along Newport Avenue and Voltaire Street. Several new tasting rooms and award-winning breweries have opened their doors in the past several years, adding to the unique mix of old and new. Annual events include the O.B. Street Fair & Chili Cook-off, Oktoberfest, OB Holiday Parade and 4th of July Fireworks from the iconic pier.
Unexpected Appeal
Dog Beach is a landmark in the community of Ocean Beach at the end of I-8 at the mouth of the San Diego River.
Dog Beach is a special place where people and pets, beach lovers and surfers celebrate the spirit of Ocean Beach, one of Southern California's last true beach towns. Dog Beach is a melting pot for people and dogs, all sizes, shapes, colors, creeds, and breeds. On any given day, dogs run freely in the ocean, surfers surf the Dog Beach Break, and people and dogs co-exist peacefully. It truly is a beautiful thing for all dog lovers.
The Market
Small beach cottages and large hillside view homes – this is an eclectic neighborhood at all price points.
Ocean Beach has retained its character and vibe especially in the low-lying areas with charming bungalows and cottages. Condominiums and apartments also are found closer to the shore. Properties are situated on quiet residential streets and are often within walking distance of Ocean Beach’s charming downtown and the sandy beaches. Head to upper Ocean Beach and you will find gorgeous single-family homes located atop hills with incredible million-dollar ocean views and sunsets galore.
You'll Fall in Love With
The opportunity to purchase the freshest locally grown produce, art, flowers and more.
If you are looking for some fresh produce and a way to support San Diego’s local farmers, look no further! You’ve come to the right place. The Ocean Beach Farmers Market occurs every Wednesday from 4-8 pm and is located on Newport Avenue between Cable and Bacon Streets in Ocean Beach. The Ocean Beach Farmers Market has something for everyone. This event boasts the same free-spirited and funky vibe that can be felt throughout this beachside community. Here you will find countless vendors of fresh produce, flower stands, tasty ready to eat meals, unique homemade arts and crafts, and live music to help set the tone for a fun and exciting evening out.
