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Windansea Beach

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Windansea Beach

Down the hill, past La Jolla’s ritzy homes, hotels, boutiques and restaurants, lies Windansea Beach, flanked by surfers and sunbathers on hot summer days. With its sandstone cliffs, sandy beach, and incredible surf breaks, Windansea has been a popular surfing haunt as far back as the 1940s and a gathering spot of the Windansea Surf Club since the 1960s.

The shack on the beach, built by surfers during World War II, is now a San Diego Historic site. Windansea Beach is also a great body surfing and snorkeling area. The north end of the beach is fairly rocky and the south is sandier--good for a nice walk along the water’s edge. You can also enjoy a picnic in the grass next to the beach and take in the awe-inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean.

Parking, restrooms, lifeguards Windansea Beach

There are no public restrooms at Windansea Beach. Lifeguards are stationed during the summer and during some weekends in the fall and spring. There is no wheelchair access to the beach. Separate swim and surf zones are set up at Windansea. You can park on the street or try the tiny single lot near the beach.

Windansea Beach directions

Windansea is located around 6800 Neptune Place. From the north, follow I-5 south to the Genesee Avenue exit and head west. Turn left on Torrey Pines Road and follow it into downtown La Jolla. Turn left on Girard Avenue and then right on Pearl Street. Next, turn left onto La Jolla Boulevard. Make a right on Nautilus Street. From the south, follow I-5 north to the Ardath Road exit. Ardath Road becomes Torrey Pines Road. Turn left from Torrey Pines Road onto Girard Avenue. Make a right on Pearl Street and then turn left onto La Jolla Boulevard. Turn right on Nautilus Street.

Insider Tips

Windansea is one of the most scenic beaches in Southern California — a great place for a romantic stroll at sunset. Parents should use caution with small children playing at Windansea; the surf often breaks directly on the shore with surprising power. As with most beaches in San Diego, arriving early will guarantee easy parking and more privacy.

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