Imperial Beach is the southernmost city on the West Coast, about five miles away from Tijuana, Mexico. The area’s proximity to our neighboring country makes for an ethnically diverse population and an equally diverse culture.
The four-mile length of shoreline that makes up Imperial Beach’s western border is known as Imperial Beach City Beach. The long stretch of broad, flat, soft-sand beach is full of things to do.
As is typical all along the California coast, surfing is popular at Imperial Beach City Beach, but you’ll also find basketball courts, parks, playgrounds, the Imperial Beach Pier, and plenty more to enjoy during your stay.
Activities
Swimming, sunbathing, surfing, fishing, basketball, volleyball, biking, walking and jogging.
Dogs not allowed on the beach except for specified areas accessible at Seacoast Drive and Carnation Avenue.
Amenities
Restrooms, showers, lifeguards, picnic tables, grass parks, playground, volleyball nets, basketball courts, pier, and restaurant.
The best option for parking is along Seacoast Drive, but there are several side streets with ample parking, as well.
Nearby Attractions
Imperial Beach Pier is on Imperial Beach City Beach near Emerald Avenue. The pier is a great spot for a scenic walk, especially around sunset, and it’s also home to The Tin Fish, a restaurant that offers outdoor dining.
You’ll find the entryway to Imperial Beach Pier at Portwood Pier Plaza, a park with a bike path, picnic tables, restrooms, and a colorful art installation called “Surfhenge.” There are several shops and restaurants in the vicinity of Portwood Pier Plaza, as well.
If you brought your passport, you can easily a take day trip to Tijuana, Mexico. The possible activities there are too numerous to mention.
Fun Facts
Imperial Beach was featured in a 2019 segment of Vice News Tonight that discussed the spring tide known as “king tide” and its effects on coastal populations.
When Malcolm Jones, creator of the Portwood Pier Plaza’s iconic “Surfhenge” art installation, was young, he was enrolled in Harvard University where he was studying quantum mechanics with plans on becoming a rocket scientist. The course of his life was changed when he attended an art program intended for 3rd graders at the Rhode Island School of Design, inspiring him to become an artist.
Details
Location: Between Palm Beach Avenue and Imperial Beach Boulevard, Imperial Beach, CA 91932
Phone: 619-423-8300
Season: Year-round
Pets: No
Website: sandiego.org…
Pacific Beach – San Diego, California