Located on the southwest side of the United States, Imperial Beach is one of the most sought-after destinations that boast a fantastic vista of the sun, sea, and sand. The soothing waves are more than enough to provide a relaxing time for people from different walks of life, looking to break away from the daily stresses of life. Apart from the beaches, the city also offers travelers a chance to reconnect with nature, with nature reserves and parks such as Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve and Border Field State Park. Another notable attraction is Imperial Beach Certified Farmers Market where tourists can shop for local produce and handicrafts to bring home as souvenirs. There are also plenty of seafood restaurants and ice-cream parlors available in Imperial Beach.
To have a clearer picture of the best things this place has to offer, read on for the top things to do in Imperial Beach, California.
1. Get close to nature at Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve
Experiencing nature at its finest is definitely the best way to relax. A special place that offers a walk through the wonders of nature, Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve is a protected area in Southern California that is deemed as one of the few salt marshes left in the state.
In addition, the area is the perfect stopover spot for more than 100 species of migratory and native birds, which include 6 endangered species. This creates a suitable breeding, feeding, and nesting ground for these beautiful creatures.
To let tourists witness the beauty of nature, the area features more than 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) of walking trails. This helps visitors indulge in some bird-watching and enjoy enchanting views of the confluence of Tijuana River and the Pacific Ocean.
Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve
Address: 301 Caspian Way, Imperial Beach, CA 91932, United States
Website: Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
2. Enjoy a dose of vitamin sea at Imperial Beach Pier
Imperial Beach nestles among wetlands and houses over 300 species of birds. It also boasts clean sand and water perfect for lone beach bums, friends, couples, and families wanting to experience fun activities such as swimming, surfing, and fishing. One of the most visited tourist attractions in the city is the Pier. It offers access to a fishing area, ice-cream parlors, eateries, and stunning sunset views.
Imperial Beach Pier
Address: Imperial Beach, CA 91932, United States
Website: Imperial Beach Pier
3. Learn about various wildlife species at Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge
Dating back to the year 1980, Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge sits on a massive wetland area administered by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. The refuge is part of Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve and San Diego National Wildlife Refuge Complex.
It serves as the essential habitat for various animal and bird species, including gray wolfs, grizzly bears, whooping cranes, and more. It also provides critical habitat for endangered animals, birds, and plant species. You can indulge in wildlife watching, picnicking, and hiking while here. You’re also free to click stunning photographs in the area.
Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge
Address: 301 Caspian Way, Imperial Beach, CA 91932, United States
Website: Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
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4. Shop for locally grown produce at Imperial Beach Certified Farmers Market
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Come get your official T-Shirt designed by local girl Ily. Today at IB Beautiful's Imperial Beach Certified Farmers Market.
Posted by Imperial Beach Certified Farmers Market on Friday, July 24, 2015
Aside from the exciting beach activities and fantastic views, Imperial Beach also offers visitors access to the most delicious and fresh local produce in San Diego. Imperial Beach Certified Farmers Market houses vendors who offer tasty meals and snacks, along with seasonal produce that is grown locally.
The market showcases dishes from the Middle East, Asia, Greece, India, and many more regions to provide tourists with a unique experience. Souvenirs such as unique home decors and crafts can also be found in this place.
Imperial Beach Certified Farmers Market
Address: 10 Evergreen Ave, Imperial Beach, CA 91932, United States
Website: Imperial Beach Certified Farmers Market
Opening hours: Fri: 2pm - 6pm (October to March); Fri: 2pm - 7pm (April to September); (closed Sat -Thu)
5. Take a scenic ride along Bayshore Bikeway
Taking in the wondrous views in Imperial Beach is also possible with a fun bike ride. The Bayshore Bikeway is a 24-mile (38.6-kilometer) iconic bike route that lets you pass along the sunny coastline dotted with palm trees while enjoying the cool breeze.
The mesmerizing bike ride offers fantastic views of Coronado Bay Bridge, Navy bases, Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuges, and the captivating San Diego skyline. You can also stop for a short break at Coronado Brewing Company for a quick recharge with some delicious craft beer.
Bayshore Bikeway
Address: Coronado Ferry, 1020 Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: Bayshore Bikeway
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
6. Have a fill of delicious seafood at SEA180° Coastal Tavern
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Featuring one of our newer additions to the menu: Spanish Octopus A La Plancha with black bean puree, chorizo aioli & pork chicharonnes.
Posted by SEA180 Coastal Tavern on Sunday, August 9, 2020
Exploring the various places of interest in Imperial Beach will surely get you craving something special to eat. This is where SEA180° Coastal Tavern fits in perfectly. Located in Pier South Resort, this restaurant offers a fantastic sea view and scrumptious seafood.
It is known to offer a wide range of innovative dishes, cocktails, beers, and mouthwatering desserts that you can enjoy indoors or outdoors. Plus, the restaurant is also known to serve dishes made from produce sourced locally.
SEA180° Coastal Tavern
Address: 800 Seacoast Dr, Imperial Beach, CA 91932, United States
Website: SEA180° Coastal Tavern
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11:30am - 9pm; Fri - Sun: 7am - 9pm
7. Take a leisurely stroll around Border Field State Park
One of the many parks that can be found in neighboring areas of Imperial Beach is Border Field State Park. This protected state park provides great views of the beach and features spots for picnics and barbecues. The park also comes with restrooms. You can enjoy lots of outdoor activities here, including hiking, bird-watching, and horseback riding.
The park is nestled in Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve with access to wildlife views. However, please note that it’s safe to avoid swimming on the beach.
Border Field State Park
Address: 1500 Monument Rd, San Diego, CA 92154, United States
Website: Border Field State Park
8. Get ready for some action at Kristy Murphy's Siren Surf Adventures
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
There are lots of fun activities to keep yourself busy while at Imperial Beach and one of them is surfing. Fortunately, Kristy Murphy’s Siren Surf Adventures offers a personalized surfing experience that you will definitely enjoy.
This experience is curated by Kristy Murphy, Women’s World Longboard Champion and seasoned pro surfer in partnership with Cat Slatinsky, a skilled surf photographer. Together, their goal is to provide a one-of-a-kind surf experience you will never forget. The sessions are meant primarily for intermediate surfers.
Siren Surf Adventures
Address: Imperial Beach, CA 91932, United States
Website: Siren Surf Adventures
9. Spend some happy hours at Coronado Brewing Company
After engaging in the fun activities that Imperial Beach has to offer, you will definitely love a mug of frothy beer, along with a delicious meal. Enjoy all of that and a relaxed atmosphere at Coronado Brewing Company. Run by brothers Ron and Rick, this establishment distributes beer in 22 states and 6 countries.
This venue offers handcrafted ales and ciders along with delicious dishes to share with family and friends. You will also find a variety of refreshing seltzers here.
Coronado Brewing Company
Address: 875 Seacoast Drive, Imperial Beach, CA 91932, United States
Website: Coronado Brewing Company
Opening hours: 11am - 9pm (daily)
10. Enjoy a refreshing treat at Cow-A-Bunga Ice Cream & Coffee
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Throughout the uncertainty. There is one thing for certain... Ice cream makes everything feel better... Thankfully we are still open for quick serve.
Posted by Cowabunga on Friday, March 20, 2020
While exploring Imperial Beach, take a break and indulge in a mouthwatering sweet treat or a delicious drink at Cow-A-Bunga Ice Cream & Coffee. The ice cream shop offers a beachfront space to chill and enjoy some of the finest treats in the South Bay region.
It features homemade ice creams and gourmet coffee drinks, from espresso shots to cold brews. Aside from a wide range of ice creams and acai bowls, the shop also offers other refreshing cold treats such as flavored smoothies and shaved ice.
Cow-A-Bunga Ice Cream & Coffee
Address: 10 Evergreen Ave Ste E, Imperial Beach, CA 91932, United States
Website: Cow-A-Bunga Ice Cream & Coffee
Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)
Take a break and have some fun in Imperial Beach
Imperial Beach is a truly remarkable destination as it boasts various activities that cater to all kinds of tourists, whether nature lovers or foodies. So, when you feel the need for a break, plan a trip to this vibrant city for a fun and relaxing holiday.
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