Dunes Park

Dunes Park is a charming coastal spot in Imperial Beach that embodies the spirit of a classic California beach getaway. Located in the USA, this park serves as a perfect link between the sandy shore and urban infrastructure, offering visitors stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

One of the park's main highlights is its unique Boulderscapes playground. Instead of the usual plastic slides, you’ll find rope ladders, artificial boulders, and dolphin figures that create the atmosphere of a true maritime adventure. For adults, the park offers well-maintained picnic areas and pleasant walkways along the ocean.

The park is managed by the Port of San Diego and serves as an important cultural space. Thanks to its proximity to the famous pier and Pier Plaza, it has become a popular spot not only for family vacations but also for community events. A high rating of 4.6 stars confirms that this place is equally loved by both locals and travelers.

To contact the park administration or inquire about event details, you can reach out to the Port of San Diego, which manages this area.

At Dunes Park, everyone will find something to enjoy. Active travelers can start their day with a walk along the promenade, breathing in the salty sea breeze, or head to the beach to soak up the sun on the white sand. Children will be delighted with the original playground, where they can climb "boulders" and explore sea figures while parents prepare a barbecue in the designated picnic areas.

Be sure to take some time to explore the street art that this area is famous for. You can see the famous Surfhenge monument—a vibrant installation of giant surfboards that highlights the city's status as the birthplace of California surfing. Stroll through the alleys and find the surfboard benches, each telling the story of legendary wave riders.

Wrap up your visit with a walk along the adjacent Imperial Beach Pier. Here, you can not only watch for dolphins frequently seen in the coastal waters but also stop by the Tin Fish restaurant to try the freshest seafood. This spot is perfect for experiencing the relaxed pace of life in the southwesternmost city in the United States.

Getting to this picturesque coastal spot is quite easy. Dunes Park is located at 790 Seacoast Dr, right in the heart of the beachfront area. If you are driving from San Diego, the trip takes about 20–25 minutes: follow I-5 South, then take the exit for Palm Ave and continue until the intersection with Seacoast Drive. Parking spaces are available nearby, which is convenient for those traveling by car.

For those who prefer public transport, there are regular bus routes from San Diego to Imperial Beach. You will need to get off at a stop near the city pier, from where the park is just a few minutes' walk away. Taxi and ride-sharing services are also popular in the city and can easily take you directly to the main entrance.

If you are already in the city center or walking along the waterfront, Dunes Park makes a great final destination for a walking route. Bike paths along the promenade also make this place accessible for those who enjoy active travel on two wheels.

The history of this location is inextricably linked to the birth of surf culture in Southern California. As far back as 1937, the legendary Dempsey Holder began tackling massive waves in the Tijuana Sloughs area, located just south of the park. In the 1940s, these shores became a vital training ground for surfers preparing to conquer giant waves in Hawaii.

Bob Simmons, known as the "father of the modern surfboard," added special significance to the area when he settled here in 1950. He was the first to apply hydrodynamic principles to board design, forever changing the face of the sport. The memory of those times is immortalized today in urban design elements: surfboard-shaped benches with commemorative plaques dedicated to wave-riding pioneers are installed throughout the park and on the adjacent plaza.

One of the most striking modern symbols of the park is the Surfhenge monument. This majestic structure consists of massive acrylic arches in the shape of surfboards, standing up to 20 feet tall. The project serves as a tribute to the city's rich sporting heritage and is considered one of the largest cast acrylic installations in the world.

A relaxed visit to Dunes Park usually takes 1 to 2 hours. This is plenty of time for children to try out all the play structures, while adults can enjoy the ocean views and take a few memorable photos by the unique art installations.

If you plan to combine your park visit with a walk along the famous Imperial Beach Pier, viewing all the surfing commemorative plaques, and having lunch at one of the beachfront cafes, you should set aside about 3 hours. This place is perfect for leisurely relaxation, so many tourists prefer to stay longer to catch the sunset.

Dunes Park is open to the public daily, making it a convenient stop on your itinerary any day of the week. You can come here early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility by the ocean or spend a cozy evening here.

Park hours are from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM Monday through Sunday. This schedule allows guests to catch both magnificent sunrises and the famous California sunsets.

Imperial Beach is famous for its cozy atmosphere, and a stroll around the park will help you better feel the local flavor. Nearby, you'll find popular spots for a bite to eat or to try craft drinks after a day at the beach.