San Diego’s Most Picturesque Piers
There’s something to be said about being able to take a sunset stroll next to the beach and (almost literally) walk on water. The ocean pier is an iconic feature of the Southern California coastline, and it’s particularly so here. Our ocean piers in San Diego are perfect for sunset watching, bicycling, and enjoying the absolutely perfect weather we experience all year. They’re also the perfect vantage point for admiring the coastline and the expansive Pacific Ocean. So if you’re feeling a little “pier pressure” to experience all of that for yourself, here are some of the best places to do so.
Shelter Island Pier (just steps away)
(Photo: @wordofmouthsandiego)
Just steps from Humphreys Half Moon Inn is the Shelter Island Pier, located on the calm waters of the San Diego Bay. Visitors flock here for the excellent fishing, peaceful vibes, and the hidden dining spot Fathom Bistro, Bait & Tackle — a combo restaurant and bait shop where you can enjoy their wide variety of local craft beers, have a delicious bite, or grab something that’ll have the fish biting! It’s the perfect spot to head out of your guest room for a calming seaside evening stroll.
1776 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106
Ocean Beach Pier (3.2 miles)
(Photo: @kaibremerphotos)
Located in the laid-back and gorgeous waterfront community that shares its name, the Ocean Beach Pier is one of the most popular landmarks in the city. Originally called “The San Diego Fishing Pier,” many locals still refer to it as that — and you’ll find anglers dropping their hooks here at all times of the year. Fun fact: The OB pier is the longest concrete pier on the west coast, so you can enjoy a little history with your views.
1850 Ocean Front St, San Diego, CA 92107
Crystal Pier (7.6 miles)
(Photo: @crystalpiersandiego)
This dock extends from the shore of Pacific Beach. When you visit, be sure to take a leisurely meander down its length to check out the shore-chic cottages that dot its span, and contribute to the quaint and cozy coastal town vibe that is so synonymous with San Diego. Stick around for a while and you might even see surfers catch the wave breaks along the PB shoreline that extends along the adjacent sands.
4500 Ocean Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
Embarcadero Marina Park South Pier (9.7 miles)
(Photo: @iam_g_i_a)
This downtown dock may be on the smaller side (extending just 95 feet from shore), but it spits into a “T”-shaped terminus that stretches 300 feet. From here, you’ll have a fantastic view of downtown, Coronado Island, and the nearby San Diego Convention Center. The adjacent Embarcadero Marina Park South offers visitors basketball courts, bike paths, dining, an outdoor band shell, and some superb no-license required fishing.
200 Marina Park Way, San Diego, CA 92101
Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier (12.5 miles)
(Photo: @thescrippspier)
Scripps Pier offers a serene tranquility and photogenic character that’s hard to convey with a description — you really must see it to take it in for yourself. While here, you’ll have lots of opportunities to see a stunning sunset, and more than a few chances to spot many of San Diego’s native wildlife species. If you get there early enough, don’t miss checking out the excellent Birch Aquarium at the Scripps Institute of Oceanography.
8650 Kennel Way, La Jolla, CA 92037
Imperial Beach Pier (20.7 miles)
(Photo: @mrsellissan)
Extending outward from the seaside Imperial Beach neighborhood, this pier is the southernmost dock on the US West Coast. It’s a great place to catch a sunset! Imperial Pier is also home to the Outdoor Surfboard Museum, so it tends to draw a strong presence from surfers who make a pilgrimage here to catch the latest waves. The distinctly casual vibe of this pier is perfect for a low-key morning or afternoon walk.
910 Seacoast Dr, Imperial Beach, CA 91932
Oceanside Pier (38.8 miles)
(Photo: @marbellaoceanside)
The perfect Pier to end a busy day in San Diego. Oceanside Pier has a little something for everyone. A nearby surfing area is one of the most revered in the city. The Oceanside Pier Amphitheatre hosts live performances of all varieties. You can even grab fishing tackle at an on-pier bait shop. Or, you can catch the sunset, watch the surfers make their final runs, and then grab some seafood at the new end-of-pier restaurant (opening soon!).
301 The Strand N, Oceanside, CA 92054
Reserve Your Stay at Humphreys Half Moon Inn
Planning to check out San Diego’s plethora of piers? Humphreys has your room ready. We’re not only just minutes from every stop on the list, but guests tell us they love our competitive rates, charming island atmosphere and awesome amenities. Take a look at the latest Special Offers at Humphreys Half Moon Inn, and start planning your stay today!