Imperial Beach - California
 

Can get a pretty decent rate for a condo on the beach. I lived in San Diego and know where IB is located but never been there. Any opinions. Is it safe to walk at night? How often is the beach closed due to pollution (i know it gets the run off from tj). How is the traffice these days on "5" going & coming from San Diego? Any details are appreciated. Thank you.

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You said you know the location and are obviously aware of the pollutionn problems, so I think you've answered your own questions. You get what you pay for, so if you found a reasonable condo in Imperial Beach, you probably all ready know that it's going to be a disappointment. Splurge on the vacation and stay someplace pretty and conveniently located.

Grew up surfing at IB. Still go there every now and then. It's still safe-you're not going to get held up unless you're actively flaunting and you're alone and you're out very late and happen to run into the wrong people. But this can happen almost anywhere. Not too much to do at night still-besides Coronado is only five miles up the Strand and dowtown is across the bridge. Beach is closed more often during rainy season or when they burst pipes in TJ-which is unpredicatble. Traffic on 5 south is horrible after 3:30 and bad on 5 north from 0630-0900. They have renovated the pier area though - it's really nice. Added a few shops and some restaurants palm trees all over. There's even a fish joint at the end of the pier. Pricey though for the take out type food. There are a bunch of nice new condos on the beach and around the pier area. Would only vacation there only if the rates were substantially lower than PB, MB or even OB.

Not sure when you are going but if swimming in the ocean is not on the agenda then it will not matter if the beach is closed. If it were summer I wouldn't want to stay there. It is rarely a recommended spot to vacation. As one poster said you know all ready, you have answered your own question. Splurge, and stay in a nicer more convenient area. You will be happier in the long run.