Moonlight State Beach

With facilities and rentals for everything from fishing to volleyball, this beach will keep you busy. Parking can be difficult to find, but once you arrive, you'll see that the effort was well worth it. This is the most family-friendly of the San Diego beaches. It's not a quick stop, but it's worth it for a beach day with the kids.

In the summer, Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas is the place to be, especially during its free concert series in July and August. Visit the concession stand, volleyball courts, numerous picnic tables, tiki umbrellas, large restroom facility, equipment rental stand, and children's playground area. It's difficult to find parking, but once you do, it's well worth it. Use the unofficial drop-off and pick-up point where passengers unload with beach supplies before drivers head to residential streets to find a spot—you'll notice where everyone is doing it.