Border Field State Park

Border Field State Park Review

This southernmost San Diego beach is different from most California beaches; there are no lifeguards, and the fence marking off the south end of the parking lot also marks the U.S.-Mexican border. The beach is part of Border Field State Park, a marshy area with chaparral and wildflowers that's a favorite among horseback riders and hikers. The park contains much of the Tijuana River estuary, a haven for migrating birds. Access to the park is often closed to motor vehicles because of lack of manpower; you can park about a mile away at the entrance to the state beach and walk along the salt flats. When open, the park has barbecue grills, plentiful parking, and restrooms. Beware: in winter the grounds are often posted with contamination signs because of sewer runoff from Tijuana. Best for: bird-watching, horseback riding, solitude. Amenities: grills, parking at Monument Mesa, picnic tables, toilets.