Explore the beaches of Leucadia, known for outstanding sunset views, and located in relatively undeveloped areas of North County San Diego. Ponto Beach, in particular, is located just across Highway 101 from Batiquitos Lagoon, away from the bustle of residential Leucadia. This beach has an abundance of sand that provides families and tourists with plenty of room to set up umbrellas and lay out towels for a long day spent in the sun. With an adjacent parking lot, multiple bathroom stalls and showers, and permanent volleyball courts (bring your own net), this is a destination of both convenience and relaxation.
Ponto is also known for its mild waves, perfect for swimmers and beginning surfers. Crystal-clear water and lifeguard towers create a safe and ideal environment for families with young ones. Many surf camps for people of all ages, from beginners to intermediates, and Junior Lifeguard programs are hosted at Ponto Beach, so make sure to check out the Carlsbad State Beach website (below) for more information. Sign up for a summer long session if you're local or weekly lessons if you're just visiting. For the true beach experience, the Carlsbad State Beach Campgrounds, nestled up to Ponto Beach on a nearby bluff, offer beachside campsites for as little as $50 a night.
And for those who are looking for a more challenging surf-spot, travel just a few blocks south from Ponto to either Beacons or Grandview, well-known to the local surf scene yet practically unknown to visitors of Leucadia. Hidden behind beachhouses built on the coast's cliffs and veiled by thickets of palm trees, Beacons and Grandview appear untouched, yet are preserved and utilized by local surfers. Although neither of these spots offer enough sand for sunbathers or family-friendly access, with their steep bluff-side staircases, both offer look-out points to ensure a spectacular view of the sunsets year-round.
Ponto Beach Information
- Hours:
- 6am to 10pm daily
- Contact:
- Location: Carlsbad Blvd north of La Costa Blvd, Carlsbad, CA
- Phone: 619-438-3143
- Website: www.sandiegocoastlife.com/sandiego-beaches/beaches-ponto-beach.html
- Useful Links:
- For Carlsbad State Beach Campsite information, visit: www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=600
- For information on Junior Lifeguards and surf camps, visit: www.jrlifeguards.com
