Frequently Asked Questions

The Imperial Beach Lifeguard Service is on duty from 7 am to dusk every day of the week, including holidays. We are responsible for lifeguarding from Carnation Avenue to the south end of Seacoast Drive.

Swimming and surfing are allowed on any part of the beach. There are no separated areas. The only areas that are closed are near the pier and jetties.

Dogs are allowed on a leash in two areas:

• South of Imperial Beach Boulevard
• North of Palm Avenue.

They are not allowed in between these two areas, and cannot be walked through these areas to where they are allowed.

Dogs are also not allowed on the pier.

Alcohol consumption and glass containers are not permitted on the beach.

Bonfires are not permitted on our beach. 

We have two Power Beach Chairs available to use that can be taken on the sand. See the Power Beach Chairs page for more information.

Special events and school talks can be done on the beach but must be coordinated with the Special Events Coordinator.

Call them at 619-423-8285 to contact the Special Events Coordinator.

A permit is required for temporary outdoor displays or sales. These must be obtained from the Administrative Services Department by calling 619-628-1365.

Fishing is allowed on the pier without a fishing license, although all other regulations apply including size/bag limits and report cards. However, a fishing license is required to fish on the beach and in the surf. Fishing in the Tijuana River Mouth State Marine Conservation Area and all other marine protected areas is restricted.

If fishing in the surf, you must be 150 feet away from any swimmers and surfers. You must also be 300 feet away from either side of the pier. On the pier, you cannot fish between the posted signs.

Possessing a speargun that is armed, cocked, or drawn on the beach is also not allowed. You must be a thousand feet outside of the shoreline to use a speargun.

Fishing licenses can be obtained online through the Department of Fish and Wildlife or through some stores that sell sporting goods. Validations and report cards must also be purchased if regulations require them.

For more information on fishing regulations and protected areas, visit the Department of Fish and Wildlife's website.