Ideal for a breezy walk with stunning views on all sides, this Ocean Beach landmark gets over 500,000 visitors a year and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. At approximately one-third mile long (1,971 feet), the structure is the longest concrete pier on the West Coast. Originally designed as a pier for fishermen, the Ocean Beach Municipal Pier was opened on July 2, 1966.
Parking and public transportation at Ocean Beach Municipal Pier
Parking near the OB Municipal Pier is available in the corner lot directly in front of the pier, and also at the public lot across from the Newsbreak Café. It is reasonable to expect an open spot throughout the week, with the exception of weekend afternoons. If the lots are full, street parking is available on all of the streets surrounding the Ocean Beach area.
Best and worst time go to Ocean Beach Municipal Pier
Anytime is a great time to appreciate the ocean views from the Ocean Beach Municipal Pier, but to get a nearby parking spot on a weekend, it is advisable to arrive before 10 am. If the nearby lots are full, it just means that street parking is the next closest option. Also, do not underestimate the winds that regularly blow along the coast of ocean beach; they might be unexpectedly cold for children or those sensitive to breezy weather.
Admission to Ocean Beach Municipal Pier
There is no admission to walk the length of the Ocean Beach Municipal Pier. If you decide to bring money, a café is available about halfway down the pier, but no money is required for the pier itself.
Must see and do at Ocean Beach Municipal Pier
Walk to the End of the Longest Concrete Pier on the West Coast
As you walk the 1,971 feet of the Ocean Beach Municipal Pier, you'll notice an impressive view of the Sunset Cliffs to the left, and a multi-tiered view to the right that includes surfers, the Ocean Beach Coast, and the horizon which expands to Dog Beach and beyond. Fisherman are often lining the pier, but it is wide enough that space is not an issue. The end of the Ocean Beach Municipal Pier has viewing areas that allow magnificent opportunities to see the cliffs, coast, and ocean in all directions.
Explore the Rock Path That Runs Past the Pier
Walking past the pier entrance towards the eroded cliffs reveals a path of stones that have been worn by the waves for millennia. Numerous carvings and fossils are visible within the stones, and crabs can be seen in small pools accumulated near the coastline. Beware that the stones can be slippery, so secure shoes are advisable for venturing into this area.
Wander the Unique Town of Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach is a town like no other. Aside from the unique restaurants and shops that line Newport Avenue, artists, street musicians, and various forms of live music are also common.
Other places to visit near Ocean Beach Municipal Pier
Sunset Cliffs
Located just south of Ocean Beach, Sunset Cliffs Park offers an opportunity to walk along jagged cliffs with the ocean crashing into the rocks below. Comprised of 68 acres of paths above the Pacific, Sunset Cliffs is one of the most memorable walks you'll ever take.
Hodad's
For a truly unique burger experience, check out Hodad's on the main street that runs through downtown Ocean Beach. While unique vanity plates decorate the inside, the real star of the show is their fully loaded burgers that come in a variety of flavors. This includes the Guido Burger, which was inspired by Guy Fieri who profiled the restaurant on his popular Food Network show. Hodad's is arguably the most popular restaurant in San Diego.
Newsbreak Café
Located directly across from the Ocean Beach entrance on 1959 Abott Street, Newsbreak Café contains dozens of coffee and tea options, in addition to a menu full of fresh pastries, breakfast foods, panini's, and more.
Insider tip for visitors to Ocean Beach Municipal Pier
Visitors to the Ocean Beach Municipal Pier may not realize that it is a prime location to spot dolphins and seals, especially at the very end of the pier.
Author's bio: After a seven year career in the US Navy, Nicholas Napier completed his MBA and settled in California. He's published over 40 articles as the San Diego Fitness Trends Examiner, and regularly contributes as a freelance writer to various companies.