Surfing and Mexican food are an inseparable part of the San Diego experience. After riding the waves and working up an appetite, nothing hits the spot like a mouthwatering taco or burrito. To help you make the most of your post-surfing cravings, we've compiled a list of the best Mexican restaurants and taco shops in San Diego, carefully paired with nearby surf spots. Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite or a visitor seeking authentic flavors, these surf and taco combinations will satisfy your taste buds and keep you fueled for your next adventure in America's Finest City.
1. Sunset Cliffs / Mike's Taco Club
Sunset Cliffs (directions) is a picturesque surf spot in San Diego known for its stunning coastal cliffs and consistent waves. It offers a variety of breaks suitable for different skill levels, including The Cliffs for intermediate to advanced surfers.
Best Post-Surf Taco: Mike’s Taco Club (reviews) 5060 Newport Ave San Diego, CA 92107
Honorable Mention: Mitch’s Seafood
2. Pacific Beach / Harry’s Taco Club
Located in the lively neighborhood of Pacific Beach (directions), this surf spot attracts a mix of locals and tourists. It offers a wide sandy beach and various breaks that cater to surfers of all levels, making it a popular destination for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
Best Post-Surf Taco: Harry's Taco Club (reviews) 4612 Cass St San Diego, CA 92109
Honorable Mention: Taco Surf
3. Tourmaline / Oscar’s Mexican Seafood
Situated in north Pacific Beach, Tourmaline (directions) is known for its mellow and long rides, making it a great spot for beginners and longboarders. It has a relaxed atmosphere and is known for its friendly surfing community.
Best Post-Surf Taco: Oscar’s Mexican Seafood (reviews) 703 Turquoise St San Diego, CA 92109
Honorable Mention: Los Dos Pedros
4. Bird Rock / Birrieria & Taqueria La Huasteca
Nestled between La Jolla and Pacific Beach, Bird Rock (directions) is a reef break that provides consistent waves. It offers a challenging surf experience, suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers. It's known for its beautiful surroundings and vibrant marine life.
Best Post-Surf Taco: Birrieria & Taqueria La Huasteca (reviews) 865 Turquoise St San Diego, CA 92109
Honorable Mention: Don Bravo
5. Windansea / The Taco Stand
Windansea (directions) is a legendary surf spot located in La Jolla. It offers powerful and fast-breaking waves, attracting experienced surfers seeking thrilling rides. Windansea's iconic palm-fringed shoreline and unique surf culture make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Best Post-Surf Taco: The Taco Stand (reviews) 621 Pearl St La Jolla, CA 92037
Honorable Mention: El Pescador Fish Market & Restaurant
6. La Jolla Shores / Shore Rider
La Jolla Shores (directions) is a family-friendly beach with a sandy bottom and gentle waves, making it ideal for beginners and longboarders. Scripps, located nearby, offers more consistent waves and attracts intermediate surfers. These neighboring spots provide a range of surf options within the scenic La Jolla area.
Best Post-Surf Taco: Shore Rider (reviews) 2168 Avenida De La Playa La Jolla, CA 92037
Honorable Mention: Raymundo’s Taco Shop
7. Table Tops (Tide Beach Park) / Roberto's
Located in Solana Beach, Table Tops (directions) is a reef break that produces fast and hollow waves. It's known for its powerful surf, attracting experienced surfers looking for challenging rides. The break is named after a nearby tabletop-like rock formation.
Best Post-Surf Taco: Roberto’s (reviews) 445 N Hwy 101 Solana Beach, CA 92075
Honorable Mention: Pillbox Tavern
8. Beacon’s (Leucadia State Beach) / Juanitas Taco Shop
Located in Encinitas, Beacon's (directions) is a reef break with consistent waves. It offers a variety of sections and can provide both left and right breaks. It's popular among locals and has a friendly surf community.
Best Post-Surf Taco: Juanitas Taco Shop (reviews) 290 N Coast Hwy 101 Encinitas, CA 92024
Honorable Mention: Haggo’s Organic Taco