Quintessential San Diego Burger Joint. That’s the phrase that comes to mind about for our families visit to Hodad’s in Ocean Beach. Our morning started off with a walk out to the end of Ocean Beach Pier and we got back just in time for lunch.

By 11:45 AM the place was packed! We waited a couple of minutes and soon found ourselves in a booth, menus in hand. As we placed our drink order we began to take in the decor. Man, this place is a place to explore! My kids counted 7 surf boards hanging from the ceiling or plastered to the wall. There are literally hundreds of license plates and beach signs plastered everywhere.The decoration even extends to the bathrooms!

A few minutes after we placed our order the food started to arrive. Seriously, lightning quick food and great servers! Three of us ordered burgers, which were great, and my son ordered a side of fries. All of us were completely full. We all felt like the fries were the highlight of what we ordered. On our next trip we will try the onion rings, we’re told they are fantastic as well. I also enjoyed a pint, which seemed to amplify the whole experience just a enough. (Great selection of beers on tap!) This is another one of those places where the experience is half the fun. We were there for an early lunch and there was an electric atmosphere.

Overall, I think Hodad’s lives up to the hype. It exceeded our high expectations! A lot of people call this one of the best burger joints in town and I have to agree. When you come make sure you leave yourself with plenty of time as there is often a line going down the street.

Looking for a fun activity which won’t cost a dime? How about a leisurely stroll down the longest concrete pier on the West Coast.  Ocean Beach Pier is located at the south end of Ocean Beach.  Primarily for fishing, the 43 year old pier – which extends 1,971 feet from end to end, is an excellent people watching spot as well.  As with all public piers in California, fishing is free and attracts all kinds of sportsmen, young and old.  No fishing gear?  No problem.  You can rent fishing supplies at the bait shop right on the pier (adjacent to the Ocean Beach Pier Cafe).

There is always something happening along the pier – that is, if you aren’t too busy taking in the gorgeous panoramic view of the ocean and coastline.  In one single visit I witnessed a wedding, watched on as a fisherman caught (and released) a ray, made eye contact with a hungry pelican and marveled at the skill of the surfers in the waters below.