Your Guide to San Diego Beaches for Labor Day Weekend
Nothing says San Diego summer quite like a beach day — and Labor Day weekend is your last big chance to soak up the sun before fall rolls in (although that's when locals' summer truly begins!). Whether you want peaceful bayside vibes or energetic oceanfront fun, San Diego’s beaches deliver something for everyone. Even better, many of the best are just minutes from us here at Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina on Shelter Island.
Pack your sunscreen, grab your flip flops, and get ready to explore some of the finest beaches the city has to offer. Here are our top picks, listed from closest to furthest from your room or suite at our San Diego waterfront hotel.
Shelter Island Shoreline Park and Beach (0.2 Miles from Hotel)
Step outside and you’ll find Shelter Island Shoreline Park — a serene bayside escape perfect for starting your Labor Day weekend. This peaceful spot offers walking paths that hug the water’s edge, picnic areas shaded by palm trees, and stunning views of the marina and downtown San Diego skyline. While it’s not technically a beach, it’s a fantastic place to enjoy a morning coffee, a sunset stroll, or a relaxing picnic with friends and family.
Ocean Beach (4.6 Miles from Hotel)
Ocean Beach boasts a laid-back, bohemian vibe that’s perfect for those seeking a more eclectic beach day. Known for its dog-friendly shore and the longest concrete pier on the West Coast, OB invites you to browse unique surf shops, grab a fish taco from a local favorite, and watch surfers catch waves. Labor Day weekend here feels like a true local’s celebration — casual, friendly, and full of good energy.
Crown Point Shores (6.1 Miles from Hotel)
Located on the shores of Mission Bay, Crown Point Shores is a family favorite thanks to its calm waters and wide sandy beaches. There’s plenty of grassy space for lawn games, playgrounds for the little ones, and picnic areas perfect for Labor Day cookouts. Whether you’re swimming, kayaking, or just soaking in the sun, this spot offers a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the holiday weekend.
Mission Beach (6.2 Miles from Hotel)
Mission Beach is the quintessential Southern California beach experience, full of action and energy. Spend your Labor Day riding the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster at Belmont Park, renting bikes or rollerblades along the lively boardwalk, or simply lounging on the sand with the ocean breeze. With plenty of casual dining options and vibrant nightlife nearby, Mission Beach offers a full day of fun for all ages.
Pacific Beach (8.3 Miles from Hotel)
Pacific Beach — or “PB” as locals call it — is the spot for lively holiday fun with a youthful vibe. Its bustling boardwalk is lined with volleyball courts, restaurants, and bars, creating the perfect mix of beach time and social scene. Spend your day soaking up the sun on the wide sandy beach, then stick around for a sunset happy hour or beachfront bonfire to close out your Labor Day weekend.
La Jolla Shores (14.2 Miles from Hotel)
For a more scenic and adventurous beach day, La Jolla Shores offers a stunning mile-long stretch of soft sand and calm water. It’s a favorite for kayaking through sea caves, snorkeling with colorful marine life, and spotting the famous sea lions lounging nearby. Combine your beach day with a visit to La Jolla Cove or the quaint shops and eateries of the village for a full, memorable Labor Day getaway.
Plan Your San Diego Beach Getaway
From calm bayside parks to bustling oceanfront beaches, San Diego has the perfect beach for every kind of Labor Day weekend. Book your stay at Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina and enjoy easy access to all these top spots — plus beautiful waterfront views, marina amenities, and cozy suites just steps from the water.
Make your Labor Day weekend last a little longer — your perfect beach escape to sunny San Diego awaits!
