First off, you should probably know we’re partial to Windansea Beach because we actually lived here for a year in San Diego. It’s safe to say finding a deal on craigslist half a block from the best beach in San Diego was one of the luckier moments of our lives! With a ton of beachgoers flocking to nearby Pacific Beach and Torrey Pines, Windansea Beach in La Jolla can sometimes go unnoticed by locals and tourists alike.
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Windansea Beach San Diego
So what is so special about Windansea? Lets take a look at both sides of the beach so you can see for yourself! For reference, the midpoint of Windansea Beach San Diego is the tiki style hut that looks like something out of a storybook. Also known as the “Windansea Shack,” it’s common to see the lifeguards sitting under this iconic landmark for some shade in the summer.
Planning a Visit to Windansea Beach
Location: Windansea Beach is set between Pacific Beach and the town center of La Jolla.
Parking: Parking can fill up fast in the summer months and there is limited spots right along the beach. If you can’t find one after your first drive by cut up into the neighborhood and you’ll get lucky eventually.
Surf Spot: Directly in front of the Windansea Shack is where the surf is best. It will be easy to spot as there are always so many people fighting for a wave. One warning is that this is more advanced than nearby Pacific Beach which is perfect for beginners.
Lunch: The best way to spent the afternoon is with a full picnic that you bring. However, if you cut up to the main road the Promiscuous Fork, Café Vahik, Rigoberto’s Taco Shop, and Busy Bee’s Bagel Bakery are all in walking distance.
Seal Watch: Keep an eye out for seals as they often wander over from the center of La Jolla!
North Side of Windansea Beach in La Jolla
On any given night you can pull up to the lot here and see cars double parked, with people all hoping to catch a glimpse of the stunning La Jolla sunset. We made a point to catch it almost every night, and it never disappointed! On this side you will find plenty of rocks and caves to explore .
The coolest part about Windansea Beach in San Diego is that the sand levels fluctuate at an unprecedented rate throughout the year. This means that at some points the rocks of the beach will be up to 25 feet high!
While at other times they’re barely visible buried beneath the sand. It’s amazing when the rocks are at there peak as it creates natural caves to explore, and even private nooks to set your beach chairs up in.
→ 16 Best Things to do in La Jolla California on Your First Visit
South Side of Windansea Beach in La Jolla
This side of Windansea Beach in La Jolla is your more traditional long sandy beach, but just as breathtaking as its counterpart. The stroll from the tiki hut is spectacular, whether you’re on the beach or the sidewalk above.
The painted white staircases are your golden ticket down to the soft sands, and it’s almost impossible to walk by without snapping a picture.
There are some rocks at Windansea, but in the summer the waters so clear they’re easily avoidable for surfers and swimmers. The surf is known to be for the more advanced, but is still common to see dozens of locals shredding until the sun goes down.
If you’re looking for a place to boogie board, the waves of Marine street (the next beach north) are fantastic as well.
→ 9 Most Beautiful Beaches in La Jolla California You Have to Experience
Have any questions about Windansea beach, or want to share your favorite in San Diego? Comment below and let us know!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte and Jake
Where in the world are we? Follow our daily adventures on Instagram @nothingfamiliar!
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Where to Stay in San Diego
Ultra Luxury – La Valencia – If you’ve ever visited La Jolla then you’ve probably seen the extraordinary pink luxury hotel overlooking the Pacific Ocean. You’ll have access to all the great bars and restaurants as well as an incredible view of the beach. We honestly can’t think of a better, more luxurious place to stay while you’re in San Diego!
Fun Vacation – Hotel Indigo – This funky but comfortable accommodation is a great choice if you’re looking to stay downtown without breaking the bank. Situated right in the happening Gaslamp district, Hotel Indigo features a rooftop bar overlooking Petco Park.
Hostel Life – ITH Beach Bungalow Surf Hostel – Located in the heart of the boardwalk in Pacific Beach, this surfer hostel is one of the best options around! It has an amazing view and is right in the middle of all the beach bars and action of San Diego’s most popular beach.
For more places to stay in San Diego you can explore the latest prices here!
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USA Travel Planning
Rental Car: We use Discover Cars when traveling. Consider renting a car in one city and dropping it off in another for an epic road trip!
Tours: Check out Get Your Guide for tours all around California. Visit the San Diego Zoo, skip the line at the USS Midway Museum, or go on a Sea Cave Kayak Tour in La Jolla!
Flights: We always find great flights using Skyscanner and Kayak. This way you can plan your trip around the cheapest and most direct routes.
Accommodation: Compare multiple sites to get to the best deal such as Booking.com and Agoda! Also, Hostelworld can be your go-to source if you’re traveling on a budget.
Travel Insurance: Never travel abroad without being covered! We’ve been using SafetyWing for the last few years and they are there when we need them.
Packing Lists: Find all the inspiration you need with our Amazon packing lists. Including our electronics and camera gear, must-have medical items, and long flight essentials!
Are we able to rent chairs and umbrellas while at wind and sea? If so, where do we rent? Maybe you know of a link you could provide? Thank you for your response. We have a trip booked to La Jolla end of July. 🏖 🌊
Nina F.
Hi Nina! We’re not aware of any chair rentals for Windansea. However, many of the hotels or house rentals will provide this stuff for the beach. Definitely ideal to set up your chair on the rocks here! Such a beautiful beach. Hope you enjoy your visit (-:
You are making me miss home. That pink sunset photo looking south towards Big Rock is spectacular. I’ve seen some of the best sunsets of my life there. Cheers
Hi Paul,
These pictures make us miss this beach, too! We lived up the street from here a few years back and it was so amazing. Jake actually proposed to me on the rock right where that pink sunset picture was taken from ( :
Cheers!