Ocean Beach
along Great Highway between Point Lobos Avenue and Sloat Boulevard
A good place to walk, watch surfers, or just look at the ocean. Do not swim under any circumstances: the beach has an unusual riptide which claims several lives usually tourists each year. If you want to ocean swim, head to China Beach. Bonfires often line Ocean Beach on warmer days. Permits are legally required for bonfires so be forewarned, but often spur of the moment bonfires happen on weekends. Local grocery stores usually sell cords of wood for this very purpose. Please remember to clean up after yourself, and don't leave any broken glass on the beach!
China Beach
at the end of Sea Cliff Avenue just off El Camino del Mar
A small, secluded beach at the bottom of a steep slope, with beautiful views to the north towards the Golden Gate Bridge. You can swim here, but the water is quite brisk.