The San Diego coast is known for its stunning ocean view properties. Whether it's a small cottage in a resort town or a private beach estate, there is certainly something for everyone's tastes and budget. Get acquainted with some of the popular ocean front communities in San Diego County.

Carlsbad

This scenic community boasts gorgeous beaches, world-class restaurants and resorts. Carlsbad is known for its high quality of life and prides itself on highly rated schools, and responsible growth practices that include land preservation for animal habitats and community green space.

The La Costa Resort and Spa is part of a massive residential community in Carlsbad that consists of two 18-hole golf courses, hotel, condominium units, 19 tennis courts, boutiques and fine dining.

Population (2006): 92,928

Median Sales Price (as of Dec/08): $558,000

Things to See and Do:

- Carlsbad Village Art & Antique Mall - Contains over 15,000 square feet of shopping and over 100 antique dealers and artisans.
- LEGOLAND California
- Carlsbad Premium Outlets
- The Crossings at Carlsbad Golf Course
- Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa
- Witch Creek Winery
- The annual village Street Faire is the largest in North America, drawing over 120,000 visitors.
- La Costa Resort and Spa

Mission Beach

This community has an ideal coastal location resting on a popular stretch of beach known as The Strand. With two miles of boardwalk on one side and the ocean on the other, this is a popular spot for visitors and residents alike. Home to the famous Belmont Park amusement park and the Big Dipper roller Coaster, this community is big on fun, sun and surf.

Mission Beach was originally developed as a resort town where people could come and spend their summer vacation. The relaxed lifestyle took hold as permanent homes began cropping up until Mission Beach became a distinct neighborhood of San Diego.

Currently, Mission Beach is one of the most densely populated areas in San Diego due to an abundance of small lots from the 1930's and 40's that housed small summer cottages.

Median Sales Price (as of Dec/08): $504,000

Things to See and Do:

- 4,600-acre Mission Bay Park
- Belmont Park Amusement Park
- Mission Bay Aquatic Center
- Mission Bay Golf Course
- Sea World

Del Mar

Del Mar, "Where the surf meets the turf", is just as famous for its gorgeous beaches as for the renowned Del Mar Racetrack. Once frequented by the likes of Bing Crosby, Pat O'Brien and Jimmy Durante, the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club is one of the most esteemed organizations in the racing community.

Long walks on the 2-mile stretch of beach, world-class restaurants and scenic landscape, make Del Mar an ideal romantic getaway. Custom homes dot the canyons and hillsides boasting spectacular views in secluded, private settings.

Things to See and Do:

- Del Mar Racetrack
- San Diego County Fair
- Torrey Pines State Beach
- Powerhouse Community Center

About the Author:

Joshua Sloan is your San Diego real estate agent at SanDiegoRealEstateBuzz.com. If you're looking for Rancho Santa Fe real estate for sale, Joshua can help.