Pacific Beach - Beach Bug

San Diego’s rollout of Beach Bug electric shuttles in Pacific Beach introduces a new way to get around town that’s cheap, convenient, and even eco-friendly.

By Todd Sarouhan

Last Updated on
Mar 18, 2024

Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you make purchases through them, I may be compensated at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.

Beach Bug

Ride the Pacific

Beach Bug Destinations

Highlights

Ride the Pacific Beach San Diego - Beach Bug - Electric Shuttle

Pacific Beach, Beach Bug Electric Shuttle

Any trip to San Diego should be just as laid back as the attitude that characterizes Southern California. Trying to find parking when you visit some of your favorite attractions can be a hassle, and not every hotel has a free lot.

To cut down on unnecessary stress and enjoy San Diego to the fullest, make use of public transportation during your visit.

One important thing to remember is that the Pacific Beach - Beach Bug only operates in Pacific Beach. Meaning it will only pickup and drop off within Pacific Beach.

If you find yourself in Pacific Beach, one public transportation option you may not be aware of is the Pacific Beach Shuttle, also known as the Beach Bug.

I’m actually a long time resident of Pacific Beach and have ridden the Beach Bug many times. I find it to be easy to use and pretty fun too!

I know it makes it easy for visitors to not have to worry about finding parking or navigating traffic. On the shuttle, I can kick back and focus on having fun instead.

Great Boardwalk in North Pacific Beach

Who Runs the Beach Bug?

The Pacific Beach Shuttle is run by Circuit, an electric shuttle company that operates in over 30 different cities across the United States. The service is subsidized by the City of San Diego and the San Diego Association of Governments.

It is partially funded by fees from parking meters, helping to keep costs affordable while also making it easier for both vacationers and native San Diegan residents to get around.

Busy Boardwalk next to Woodies in Pacific Beach

An Eco-Friendly Way to Get Around Pacific Beach

The Beach Bug is part of San Diego’s push to incorporate more neighborhood electric vehicles, also called NEVs. These electric cars are more eco-friendly than other transportation options.

So when you ride, you’re not just making a better choice for yourself, but for the planet too!

The Best Way to Get Around PB!

Arrive at your designated pick-up point a few minutes early. Beach Bug operates on a tight schedule, and being punctual ensures you won't miss your ride to or from Pacific Beach. Enjoy the convenience and scenic route without worrying about timing.

Popular Hotels

Price

The Beach Cottages

$120

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La Quinta Inn & Suites Mission Bay

$125

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Pacific Terrace Hotel

$220

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Where You Can Go with the Beach Bug Electric Shuttle in Pacific Beach

Pueblo Restaurant a Fun Destination

There are many ways to get around San Diego’s various neighborhoods, including buslines, trolleys, and the Coaster. Multiple rideshare services like Uber and Lyft also operate within the city.

These services make hopping between different neighborhoods a breeze, but if you’re planning to spend most of your day in Pacific Beach, you can’t go wrong with the Beach Bug!

Check out the maps we’ve included above for more information about the Beach Bug’s service area, and keep reading to learn about where the shuttle stops.

White Water at North Pacific Beach

Take the Shuttle to the Beach

If you’re headed over to the coast while in Pacific Beach, take the Beach Bug! It can get you right along the sand at many of the neighborhood’s beaches, like North Pacific Beach.

Going surfing at PB Point/False Point and Tourmaline Surf Park? Make sure you grab a Go City San Diego pass with our discount code, GVSD5OFF. With the All-inclusive version of the pass, save when renting beach gear like surfboards and kayaks.

Boardwalk at Mission Point Park

See Mission Bay

The Beach Bug shuttle also makes stops in Mission Beach and Mission Bay Park.

Head over to the boardwalk to take the kids to Belmont Park, an amusement park overlooking the ocean. The Belmont Park Ride and Play Pass is another Go City San Diego pass benefit I highly recommend considering if you’re traveling with your family or a group of friends as is reduced admission cost at SeaWorld San Diego.

Beachfront Tower 23 Hotel on the Boardwalk in Pacific Beach

Return to Your Hotel

The Beach Bug stops at many local restaurants and hotels within the boundaries of Pacific Beach. It’s a great way to get around when you’re tired from the day’s events.

Personally, I suggest my friends and family consider staying at Tower 23 when they’re in Pacific Beach. It’s right on the waterfront in Pacific Beach, and dining at the hotel’s delicious JRDN restaurant adds a touch of luxury to any trip.

FUN with Go Pass!

Belmont Park Ride and Play Pass

Enjoy a day of FUN with your All-Inclusive Go City Pass San Diego! Belmont Park is a beachfront amusement park with thrilling roller coasters, games and activities! You can also jump on the zip line or play mini-golf. Don't forget to peep the view!

Buy Now

Who can use a Go City San Diego pass?

Adults and children (ages 3 to 12) can use the Go City San Diego pass – All-Inclusive or Explorer pass – to visit the area’s top attractions and activities.

Want to save more? Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to save an extra 5%!

What to Expect with the Ride on the Beach Bug in PB

Inside Back of the Circuit Electric Shuttles

Riding the Beach Bug gives you a chance to enjoy the sights of Pacific Beach while you travel. It’s a a more convenient and cheaper Uber.

Unlike trolleys and buses, you don’t have to ride the whole route to reach your destination - you call the shuttle when you need it and let the driver know where you’re headed.

Not only is it fun to ride around on the shuttle, it’s also convenient, as you can get to tons of popular locations both along the coastline and inland in Pacific Beach.

Electric shuttles are also very safe. They only reach maximum speeds of up to 25 miles per hour, and they typically drive the back streets.

How to Ride

To book a ride, you only need to download the Ride Circuit mobile app on your phone, and you can call the shuttle from anywhere in its service area.

If you cannot download the app, you can also call 858-258-9680 to request a ride.

What’s the Best Time to Use the Beach Bug

Surfer Walking Along the Beach in Pacific Beach

The Beach Bug is very popular in the early afternoon, when many vacationers call for a ride to the beach. It’s best to head over early so you can avoid waiting for your shuttle.

It also tends to be busier on weekends, so plan travel times accordingly if you’re planning on visiting timed events.

The Popular Crushed Restaurant on Garnet in Pacific Beach

Skip the Drive

If you’ve taken a food and drink tour or spent some time hanging out at one of Pacific Beach’s bars or craft breweries, San Diego’s public transit is an easy and safe way to get home.

The shuttle typically starts running at 7am on the weekdays and 10am and until to 6pm during the week and until 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays. These times are subject to change so just download the app and check the times there.

Featured Hotel

Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa

Bayfront

Families

Near Beach

When you stay at the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa, you may forget you’re still in Mission Beach. You’ll love the Polynesian-themed rooms and common areas!

Prices Starting at $171

Check Availability

How Much Does the Beach Bug Electric Shuttle in Pacific Beach Cost?

Walking on the Pacific Beach Pier

Taking the Beach Bug is affordable, and often cheaper than paying for parking!

Riding the shuttle costs $2.50 per person. If you’re traveling with the family, tickets cap out at $5.00 per group.

If you’re getting on or off at the Balboa Avenue Transit Station, enjoy a free ride on the Beach Bug shuttle.

Popular Activities

Hop On & Off Narrated Trolley Tour

$42 per person

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The World Famous San Diego Zoo

Discounts Available

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USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum

Discounts Available

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Tequila, Tacos & Tombstones Tour

$76 per person

Book Tour

Tips for a Perfect Ride on the Beach Bug Electric Shuttle in PB

No Alcohol

No Food Allowed

No Smoking

Public Transportation

What Are the Hours?

Hours of operation are as follows:

Monday-Thursday: 7:00am - 6:00pm
Friday: 7:00am - 9:00pm
Saturday: 10:00am - 9:00pm
Sunday: 10:00am - 6:00pm

Are Shuttles Pet-Friendly?

Pets are allowed on the Beach Bug, but must be well-behaved and kept on the floor or on your lap at all times.

View of the La Jolla Sea Caves from the Trail Above

How Else Can You Get Around?

Public transit is readily available from the hub of Downtown San Diego to the sunny shores of La Jolla and Chula Vista. For more ways to get around the city, see our pages on trolleys, Amtrak, and other transportation options.