Hangin with the Hippies in Ocean Beach

One of the most awe-inspiring places to visit is Ocean Beach in San Diego. The people you can meet and observe are more colorful and unique than in most other beach towns, from the jewelry makers and anglers on the peer, to the homeless people and beachwalkers on their lunch breaks.  After you have checked out the farmer's market and dined at one of the fabulous dog-friendly restaurants (Nico's and Newport liquor have some of the best burritos in the area), head down to the beach for the real entertainment. You don't have to pay money, just wait until dusk and gather at the beach to hear the drum circle pounding out rhythmic beats. Incandescent lights of fire and batons and hula hoops swirling around in the night let off an ethereal glow. Little kids gather to burst giant bubbles made by a bubble maker, which incidentally also look like the blog thing from Donnie Darko when photographed at night. Men and women gather on their mats for yoga and paired acrobatics, people challenge themselves by balancing on tightropes hung from trees.  With the backdrop of the sun setting, it is an amazing sight to behold and experience.

If you can get a spot, I strongly recommend staying at the Ocean Beach Hotel right off the water. They have this beautiful garden patio that is so lovely. The staff has always been friendly and accommodating when we have stayed.

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