Pacific Beach in the 1970s

During the 1970s, Pacific Beach embodied Southern California’s laid-back surf culture.

The boardwalk buzzed with skateboarders, beach cruisers, and bikini-clad sunbathers. Local surf shops lined Mission Boulevard, catering to the growing wave-riding scene. Shaggy-haired teens blasted rock music from car stereos, while families grabbed burgers from classic drive-ins.

Rent was cheap, the community was young, and every day ended with a bonfire on the sand. PB’s charm lay in its casual, unpolished vibe—a perfect mix of freedom and salt air.

This was the golden age before the condos came, when the beach was truly the people’s playground.

California History | July 31, 2025

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