Surf and Sand at Pacific Beach, San Diego, California

Pacific Beach and it's sister Mission Beach (to the south) are San Diego's answer to Venice Beach in LA. Casual, fun, a little bit of something for everyone. Park yourself on a beach towel and you'll watch a never-ending parade of skateboarders, rollerbladers and bikes move along the boardwalk between Belmont Park and Crystal Pier.

Grab a hearty breakfast and then spend a day playing in the sand, perhaps taking some surfing lessons or renting a boogie board from the Pacific Beach Surf school. Take a ride on the Big Dipper Roller Coaster, or ride the surf at the artificial wave pool at Belmont Park.

Broken Yolk

Address 1851 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109 Map, Tel (858) 270-9655 Call, Hours 6am-3pm Website

A local favorite since 1979, this is a great place to get an omelet in the morning. The outdoor (rooftop) dining room is pleasant in warm weather. Not interested in omelets? There's also a large selection of other breakfast standards like pancakes, waffles, and French toast. more

Pacific Beach Surf School

Address 4150 Mission Blvd. Suite #161, San Diego, CA 92109 Map, Tel 858.373.1138 Call, Website

If you've always wanted to learn to surf, Pacific Beach Surf School is a good place to start. They've been in business since 1998 and offer a wide variety of private lessons, semi-private lessons, and weekend clinics. Equipment rental is included in the price of the lesson. more

The Mission - Mission Beach

Address 3795 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109, USA Map, Tel (858) 488-9060 Call, Hours 7am-3pm Website

The Mission restaurant, popular with locals, specializes in simple, healthy, Mexican inspired breakfasts and lunches. There are three locations, SOMA (downtown), Mission Beach, and University Ave. The mapped location is close to Pacific Beach. more

Gringo's

Address 4474 Mission Blvd., San Diego, CA Map, Tel 858/490-2877 Call, Meals Lunch, Dinner, Sunday Brunch Website

The menu at this upscale mexican restaurant is divided between Cal-Mex favorites and traditional Mexican dishes. After a long day with the kids, you'll also appreciate the excellent Margaritas. There are lots of high chairs and outdoor seating. more

Hamel's Skate and Surf

Address 704 Ventura Place, San Diego, 92109 Map, Tel 858-488-5050 Call,

This popular skateboarding and surf shop sells surf and skate gear, but also rents surfboards, boogie boards, bikes and beach gear. more

Lanna Thai Cuisine

Address 4501 Mission Bay Dr # 1B, San Diego, CA 92109 Map, Tel (858) 274-8424 Call, Website

This beautifully designed and reasonably priced Thai restaurant serves some of the best Thai food in San Diego. Their menu includes Thai specialties not often found outside of Thailand. Delivery is available if you're in the mood to stay in your hotel room. more