Somewhat difficult to access but adventurers are be rewarded

Located in San Diego's North County coastal region, discover Fletcher Cove, with dramatic bluffs that flank the sandy beach area—an idyllic location to take a stroll and explore the caves carved into the cliffs by the pounding surf. To access this secluded set of beaches, look for the staircases that line the coastline. Great finds can also be had off the beach in the Cedros Design District, a charming enclave of over 85 unique shops, galleries, boutiques and restaurants just a short walk away.

Where to go

There are five main beach spots in Solana Beach from north to south:

• At the northern tip of Solana Beach is Seaside, a good surf spot with an outer reef called Table Tops that breaks on big southwest swells.
• Tide Beach has best sand of the bunch and a patch of reef that offers tide pooling.
• Fletcher Cove (also known as Pillbox), is located where Lomas Santa Fe Road meets the Pacific. The beach can be accessed through a concrete ramp that begins at Fletcher Cove Park, a popular recreational park with a playground and grassy area.
• Seascape Beach and Del Mar Shores on the north side of the San Dieguito river mouth, are two spots frequented by local residents.

Parking

• There's not a lot in the way of public parking on the streets here, but most of the Solana Beach residents use private off-street parking, so availability is good.
• A small but free parking lot is available at the Fletcher Cove Park.

Lifeguards

• There are lifeguards at Pillbox, Tide Beach and Seaside year-round, and at Del Mar Shores during the summer.

Bathrooms & Showers

• Shower and restroom facilities are available at Fletcher Cove, located at the top of the entrance ramp leading to the beach.

Directions

• From the I-5 freeway exit Lomas Santa Fe Drive west to Pacific Avenue. Continue straight through the intersection to Fletcher Cove or head north on Pacific Avenue or south on Sierra Avenue to explore other the options. Seaside lies directly at the bottom of the hill as you drive north on Pacific Avenue toward Cardiff.