It's good to know a few things before you head to Stone Steps Beach. Some have been touched on earlier, while other tips are new.
Surfer Catching a Wave at Stone Steps Beach
Tips for Surfing at Stone Steps
If you're a surfer visiting the San Diego area from out of town, Stone Steps Beach might disappoint you unless you're able to spend weeks here or get lucky on your one visit. Come in the summer to tilt the odds a bit more in your favor.
Pack Light
Pack light since the staircase really can be brutal. Don't let heavy loads tip you over!
Official Beach Rules
Dogs, alcohol, glass containers and smoking are not allowed.
No Facilities
No public restrooms are available, but they're close at Moonlight State Beach.
Fun Day at Stone Steps Beach
Sunset at Stone Steps on the Steps
If you visit Stone Steps Beach at sunset, you get the best view at the top of the staircase.
Limited Lifeguards
Lifeguard service is limited, although there may be patrols checking on Stone Steps from adjacent beaches.
Check the Tides
High tides usually wash out the beach, so check the reports before you visit.
Things to Do at Stone Steps
Stone Steps Beach is a great site for paddle boarding, surfing, sunbathing, strolling and reading on the beach.
Fun Day at Stone Steps Beach
Be Careful of the Cliffs
There might be signs warning you to stay a safe distance from the bluffs since failures are frequent. Heed them, but don't let them scare you from enjoying the beach.
Girls Running Out for a Swim at Stone Steps Beach
Less People
Stone Steps Beach probably will not be crowded during your visit. People come here because it feels so private and remote (although surfers come for the waves).
Point is, other beaches such as Moonlight State offer lots of amenities such as a kids' play area, lifeguards, sand volleyball courts, bathrooms, fire pits, picnic tables, a snack bar and gear rental. Stone Steps Beach does not, but as the tradeoff, it is much less crowded. Stone Steps is not a "touristy" beach.
Interesting fact: Stone Steps Beach gets its name from the steep concrete and stone steps. They help guests descend the crumbly bluff to the beach.
Try Walking from Moonlight Beach
Stone Steps is great for folks who want to escape the crowds at Moonlight State Beach. To get the best of both worlds, park at one beach and wander over to the other since they're so close (about a quarter of a mile or a walk of five minutes).