San Diego County is a slice of paradise—we know you’re thinking divinity is synonymous with luxurious oceanfront houses, spectacular parks, amazing surf destinations, and scenic golf courses. The second most populous county in California has been growing in popularity in recent years, attracting not only more tourists but permanent residents too; and really, can you blame them? Life in San Diego’s beach towns is a permanent vacation. If you’re not sure what we’re talking about, these San Diego beach towns say it all.

Oceanside

Median home price: $722,190

Oceanside is a typical SoCal coastal town with a laid-back atmosphere. Considered one of the best San Diego beach cities, Oceanside is all about the stunning beaches, palm tree-lined streets, and charming bungalows. O’side (nicknamed by the locals) is also home to one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast—Oceanside Pier. 

Considering a visit to Oceanside? Frolic in the waves before high tide—let’s just tell ya, short visits here definitely are frowned upon. The list of things to do in the city is as exciting as sunbathing the day away. While in Oceanside, visiting the California Surf Museum and the King of Missions—Mission San Luis Rey de Francia—is an absolute must. This charming SoCal city is great for families and is an affordable beach town for retirees.

Carlsbad

Median home price: $1,187,360

Ever wondered what it’s like to live where the world’s at your fingertips and the sand in your toes? Everything you’ve ever dreamed of is in Carlsbad. Exploring miles of sandy beaches, exquisite lagoons, and beautiful flower fields are a fundamental part of your day here—hooked yet? Cause we are.

This beach town located near San Diego welcomes visitors at quaint hotels, top-notch restaurants, and luxurious spas. Is keeping the youngsters occupied a bit of a challenge? Worry not, because just one visit to Legoland will have them hooked. Carlsbad for the win, that’s a given. 

If hitting a bucket of balls is your forte, Carlsbad will take you to seventh heaven. Challenge yourself at one of the Golden State’s most scenic golf courses—The Crossings at Carlsbad. Ah, this San Diego suburb has it all; it’s hands down one of the best coastal towns to live in.

Encinitas

Median home price: $1,533,020

Let’s be real here, California brought to life a surf culture like no other. Is there a better place to experience the vibe of the surfer tribe than Encinitas? Seated just 30-minutes north of Downtown San Diego, the town is home to Swami’s and Grandview Surf Beaches, which, low-key, happen to be every surfer’s haven. And of course, every top-notch surf town has top notch surf shops like Hansen Surfboards.

Nature lovers are in for a treat here; visiting the San Diego Botanic Garden, Butterfly Farms, and the Cal Pacific Orchid Farm will be quite the delight. With all the things you can do in Encinitas, you’re going to want to stay forever. 

Solana Beach

Median home price: $1,833,430

Solana Beach, one of California’s most underrated small towns, happens to be one of the best places to raise a family. This tight-knit beach town is everything anyone may ever look for in a hometown. Coastal fun and adventure is inevitable when playing on Solana Beach’s 1.7-miles of shoreline.

In Solana Beach, your kids will obtain a great education at one of the city’s acclaimed public schools. Celebrate the youngsters’ wins in school with a shopping spree. The Cedros Avenue Design District, one of San Diego’s finest shopping districts, is located here. Explore boutiques, admire art galleries, and feast at European-style eateries. No matter what your interests are, Solana Beach is one of the best places to live in San Diego.

La Jolla

Median home price: $2,070,330

America’s Finest City boasts seven-mile jewel La Jolla. Life in this gorgeous seaside village takes relaxation to a whole new level. The village is home to one of the most beautiful places to visit in California; the picturesque La Jolla Cove, where swimming, snorkeling, diving, and kayaking have a whole new meaning. But splashing around San Diego’s jewel doesn’t stop at the Cove. For surfing world-famous breaks, Black’s Beach and Windansea Beach offer a killer challenge.

Dining at Prospect Street and Fay Avenue restaurants is the definition of fine dining while shopping at the famous Westfield UTC Mall and La Jolla Village is every shopaholic's dream. If you’re pondering where to purchase your next California beach house, La Jolla doesn’t disappoint. Make your move to the best beach neighborhood in San Diego, and relax barefoot, toes in the sand for eternity. 

Coronado

Median home price: $2,254,930

Looking for a California beach town that will make you swoon? Search no further than Coronado. Coronado Beach is considered one of the best beaches in San Diego; for our furry counterparts, one of San Diego’s best dog beaches is found at the northern end of Coronado Beach. And, it gets even better. Admire the historic Hotel Del Coronado in the background while sunbathing on the pristine sandy shores.

Bike your way along the coastline, and feel the salty spray of the ocean waves. Stroll the streets of Coronado’s Orange Avenue and historic downtown with your beaux before sailing off into the sunset, just you two. 

Del Mar

Median home price: $3,010,420

Del Mar has a reputation for being one of the best coastal towns in the Golden State for retirement and for good reason. The tight-knit community of this luxurious yet laid-back SoCal city is as attractive as its untainted nature. Del Mar is so much more than its beaches, sunsets, and al fresco dining spots (though that’s pretty epic, we admit). 

There are so many fun things to do in Del Mar. Dream of attending a world-class horse race competition? Then Del Mar is your jam. Hikers rejoice, trails await you! You’re definitely not forgotten; spend your day exploring the Coast to Crest Trail.