The boardwalk, officially known as Ocean Front Walk, is a pedestrian walkway that runs approximately 2.3 miles along the beach from the end of Law Street in the north down into Mission Beach, ending at the mouth of Mission Beach. Along this scenic route are a number of local shops, restaurants, bars, and Belmont Park — a fun-filled amusement park for people of all ages. The Ocean Front Walk is packed with pedestrians, cyclists, rollerbladers, and tourists most days of the week, in particular on weekends, but it is worth it to brave the crowds and come check out this hotspot. To reach the trailhead, head toward the ocean once you reach Law Street and Mission Boulevard. Follow the clearly marked path to the left. You will be immediately greeted by views of the Pacific Ocean to the right, along with plenty of beach goers and slews of other people walking, biking, and rollerblading the same trail. To your left you will start to see a number of small beachside hotels. Approximately 0.5 miles into your walk you will see Crystal Pier, one of the top piers in the state due to the number of fish caught and the possibility of good-quality fish. If you want to add on some extra mileage, take a stop here and walk to the end of the pier where you can catch a spectacular sunset if you time your walk right or get a better view of the marine life and surfers below. From Crystal Pier, continue forward on the trail towards the main lifeguard tower. At this point you will be passing by the most crowded stretch of the Ocean Front Walk due to the number of popular bars and restaurants nearby. This is also where most people set up camp for basking in the sun and frolicking in the cool waves. If you will be riding a bike, exercise caution in this area because it can get very crowded, especially on weekends. The next mile will continue to be crowded, however if you push through the masses you will suddenly find the crowd thins as you pass by the remaining bars, shops, and beachside hotels. Now you will start to see vacation rentals and apartments on your left — passing by the occasional bachelorette party or family weekend getaway in the beautiful properties to your left. To your right the Pacific Ocean will remain a constant site for the entirety of your walk. At approximately 1.5 miles down the trail you will see Belmont Park in the distance, noticeable by the staggering roller coaster that soars above the amusement park. You’ll also come across more bars and restaurants — letting you know you’ve now crossed into Mission Beach. It is easy to get distracted at this point and want to let out your inner-kid, riding the roller coaster and maybe even stopping for a game of laser tag. If you are disciplined enough to stay on course, continue down Ocean Front Walk past more beachfront homes and condos, ending at the South Mission Beach parking lot where there are typically fewer crowds. Here is where you will turn back around and retrace your route back north to Law Street. This is your adventure so if you get distracted stopping at Belmont Park, grabbing a sweet treat at one of the stands, opt to become a beach bum, or want to grab a cold beer on your way back, no one will judge you. After all, not every hike is this scenic and lively, might as well take full advantage of your surroundings.
