South Carlsbad State Beach/Carlsbad State Beach

South Carlsbad State Beach/Carlsbad State Beach Review

Erosion from winter storms has made the southern Carlsbad beaches rockier than most beaches in Southern California. This is particularly true of South Carlsbad, a stretch of which is named in honor of Robert C. Frazee, a local politician and civic booster. Still, it's a good swimming spot, there are fine street- and beach-level promenades outside downtown Carlsbad, and for self-contained RVs there's overnight camping (800/444-7275). No overnight camping is allowed at Carlsbad State Beach, farther to the north, but there's a fishing area and a parking lot. A cement walkway borders the beach and continues into downtown Carlsbad, too. The south swell here means good summer surf when other San Diego beaches are bereft. The beach here has separate swimming and surfing sections. Best for: camping, jogging, long walks, sunbathing. Amenities: lifeguard year-round, camping facilities, grills/fire pits, parking in lots and on street, picnic tables, showers, toilets.