san diego, boardwalk

Question

hi, visiting san diego first week of oct. we were thinking of staying in the boardwalk area, any suggestion as to what part/area of the boardwalk we should stay. pacific beach, mission beach.

also , some suggestions for cool bars and restaurants. two single men mid 50's.

thanks, tommy-boy

Answer

For a first-time visit to San Diego and wanting to stay along the boardwalk, both Pacific Beach and Mission Beach are great options, but they offer slightly different vibes:

Pacific Beach: More lively, with a mix of young adults, bars, and restaurants. The boardwalk here is wide, great for walking, biking, and people-watching. Close to nightlife, casual bars, and a younger, energetic crowd.
Mission Beach: A bit quieter and more residential than Pacific Beach. It has a fun boardwalk with classic attractions, beach volleyball, and is ideal if you want a slightly more relaxed environment while still being close to bars and restaurants.

Since you mentioned being two single men in your mid-50s, you might enjoy Pacific Beach for the livelier scene, but Mission Beach is also fine if you prefer a mix of calm and activity.

Some recommended bars and restaurants along or near the boardwalk area:

Kono's Cafe (Pacific Beach): Famous for breakfast and casual beach vibes. Great coffee and breakfast burritos.
The Local PB: Excellent gastropub with craft beers and upscale pub food.
Maverick's Beach Club: Classic Pacific Beach bar with casual drinks, pool tables, and a fun crowd.
Miss B's Coconut Club (Pacific Beach): Caribbean-inspired cocktails and food with a relaxed atmosphere.
Draft PB: Great for craft beer lovers, friendly environment, and outdoor seating.
World Famous (Mission Beach): Beachfront bar and casual dining spot, fun for people-watching and light bites.

Tips for staying in the boardwalk area:

Book early, especially in October, as the area fills up fast with tourists.
Check if your hotel offers parking if you plan to rent a car—street parking can be limited.
Consider renting bikes or scooters to explore both Pacific Beach and Mission Beach easily.

Both areas give you immediate beach access, a great boardwalk experience, and plenty of options for casual and lively nightlife. For a fun, social experience, Pacific Beach is likely your best bet, but Mission Beach offers a slightly calmer pace without sacrificing proximity to bars and restaurants.

san diego, boardwalk

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