Imperial Beach, California Travel Guide

Located just south of San Diego, Imperial Beach is the most southwesterly city in the continental United States. This last little sliver of America before Mexico is jam-packed with a thriving beach scene, excellent tacos, and a laid-back attitude. Unlike the rest of California, it’s been mostly due to the recent waves of development, so the city still maintains a charming and grungy feel from the mid 20th century. Imperial Beach is also one of the most diverse cities in California with half of its inhabitants Hispanic. It’s home to beautifully preserved ecosystems, and is within 20 minutes of all of San Diego’s best and biggest attractions. If you’re looking for the classic experience of vintage California, I.B. is your best bet.

Things to Do in Imperial Beach, California

The pier in Imperial Beach is arguably the home base for the city’s culture. Visit here and walk along the boardwalk, enjoy the grassy parks, recreational facilities and local eateries. Another gem is the Tijuana River National Estuary, where fresh water from Tijuana merges with ocean water to create the biggest marshland in Southern California, perfect for some of the best bird watching in the state. Visit the I.B. Outdoor Surf Museum to learn about the sport and culture that continues to shape a region.

Best Time to Visit Imperial Beach, California

There isn't one! Perhaps the best part about San Diego, and Imperial Beach specifically, is the year-round 70-degree weather.