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Ocean Beach Pier, the longest pier on the
West Coast at 1971 feet, just under 1/3 mile long, has long been the anchor to
this fun-loving region of San Diego that enjoys its own logo and identity as an
authentic, funky beach town. It's been around since 1888 but the pier has
existed in several locations and resurrections to the current rendition which
came about in 1966.
Fishermen love fishing in San Diego and
Ocean Beach (OB) had no pier for nearly 15 years. The Ocean Beach Municipal Pier
is located at the south end of the beach and is entertainment center for the
public. Locals and tourists enjoy strolling the pier to get a sweeping view of
the surrounding bays and hills. There is a restaurant and bait shop on the pier
ideal for those who've come to fish. A fishing license is not required on this
pier or any public piers in California, though catch regulations are enforced 24
hours a day that the OB Pier is available for serious anglers.
The Ocean Beach Pier has been closed several times during its 40 year lifespan.
In 1991, close to $2 million was spent on repairs to this uniquely-shaped
structure that heads straight into the Pacific Ocean, then makes a right angle
turn. Restrooms, bait and tackle shop, snack shop, fish cleaning stations,
benches and lights, plus free 24-hour parking in a small parking lot near the
foot of the pier make this a user-friendly venue. Access to the pier via a
block-long public ramp is especially helpful to wheelchair or others with mobile
challenges.
How To Get There: From the north take I-5 to the Sea World Dr. exit and follow
it until it turns off to Sunset Cliffs Blvd. From the south take I- 5 to the
Nimitz Blvd. exit, then follow that road to Sunset Cliffs Blvd. Follow Sunset
Cliffs Blvd. to Newport Ave., turn right and follow the road to the pier parking
lot.
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