Officially named Tourmaline Surfing Park,
this beach is located at the base of Tourmaline Street just south of
La Jolla in the city of Pacific Beach. Tourmaline sits north of the
downtown Pacific Beach. The beach offers a wide stretch of sand for
sunbathing or just strolling along the shore. Tourmaline is mainly a
surfing beach and has enough space and several different breaks to accommodate
the summer crowds.
This is a popular beach for surfing, but with the consistency of good
waves comes the inevitable consistency of large crowds. Tourmaline is
considered a “locals spot” and is very noticeable upon entering
the beaches parking lot. The locals are friendly, but very serious about
respecting their territory. It’s best to be considerate and respectful
at this beach and leave the hot shot attitudes at home.
This is not a bad place to bring the family. There is plenty of space
on the sand to stretch out and accommodate everyone and there is easy
access parking available. There is a separate area for swimming and
surfing and the water is shallow enough for kids to play in. This is
also a fun place to bring the boogie board, for nice mellow shore breaks.
Just a short distance from Tourmaline beach is Tourmaline canyon, which
is great for tide pooling. You can get to it by walking north from the beaches
entrance. The beach is at the base of large cliffs, which offer a paved sidewalk
guiding you from Tourmaline beach all the way into downtown Pacific
Beach. The path would make for a nice walk or run. It’s approximately
one mile.
Tourmaline is a City of San Diego park, complete with restrooms, showers
and a parking lot. The Tourmaline parking lot is heavily used by surfers
and beach goers year round. Parking is free but finding a spot can be
tricky, especially during the summer months. There are also places to
park along Tourmaline Street (the street leading to the beach) and along
the Coast highway.
No glass containers
Consumption of alcohol is permitted on the beach from Noon to 8 p.m.
No dogs
No camping
No fires (fire rings are provided during the summer)
Bathrooms and showers available
