Buying A House Or Condo In Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach is a quaint beach town of San Diego. It’s known for its carefree atmosphere and is considered the most relaxed place in Southern California. The town is a throwback to the 50s and 60s. In fact, it’s hippie culture still resonates with the locals. They refer to the town as “OB.” The community is a place where peace and tranquility are a way of life, where individuals of various walks of life share the “OB” vibe. It’s just a “cool” place where tie-dye is still fashionable and antique stores are the primary business group, making it distinctive from other nearby beach areas.

Many people describe the town as a quiet, laidback place that time left behind. A freethinking, middle-class beach community filled with people who love their pets and turn up their noses at big business or “the establishment.” There are no Gap stores or Pottery Barns in the town, and the closest Walmart is in San Diego. However, Starbucks managed to “sneak” in a few years ago, and the locals didn’t like it one bit! Most communities would probably be fine with a Starbucks, it signifies gentrification. However, for Obecians, it’s a sign of acculturation, and it’s something they prefer to do without!

Then again, there’s plenty to do in this diverse beach community. There’s an extended fishing pier, a stunning shoreline, plenty of fun in the sun beach activities, and a dog beach for pets to roam freely without restrictions. Inhabitants and visitors can play volleyball, swim, and surf. It’s all in casual fun. You will find tattoo parlors, diverse restaurants and eateries along Newport Avenue, an electrifying place to take in the essence of the local milieu.

The community is not without romanticism. At the tide-pools south of the pier begins a concrete walkway that continues south along the oceanfront. The walkway is ideal for a romantic stroll or for a leisure gadabout. In addition, you’ll find locals practicing a skill called “rock balancing” along the walkway.

There are a good mix of families, locals, visitors, and fishing folks. Access is made easy for the disabled and lifeguards, showers, restrooms, are available as well. It also has individual surf and swim zones. There’s plenty parking at the end of Newport Avenue, Santa Monica Avenue, and Voltaire Street. Street parking is limited during the summer weekends though.

Overall, there’s plenty to describe this laidback beach town, with its peculiar mix of bars, antique stores, musicians, restaurants, bikers, activists, artists, and just about every type character you can think of! One thing is for sure, more than any other beach community in the region, Ocean Beach allows you to be who you are. What more can you ask for!