A History of Things to Do in Pacific Beach

From humble beginnings dating back to 1885, Pacific Beach has grown into one of the most desirable neighborhoods in San Diego. Along with Mission Beach, the area boasts one of the longest beaches on the west coast. 

A lot has changed since 1885. With each passing day Pacific Beach renews itself with new things to do, places to visit, and restaurants to try. We started Quicksand Escape Games in order to be part of the in-progress positive change to the community and provide the neighborhood with a friendly complement/alternative to a day at the beach or a night at the bar. 

Historically, Pacific Beach has hosted some unique activities that a current visitor or local may be surprised by. Some of the more notable attractions have included:

The "Crystal Pleasure Pier Ballroom and Joy Zone”

Opened in Pacific Beach on July 4th, 1927, the end of Crystal Pier boasted a ballroom, an arcade, and more. While the venture was short-lived due to not-so-stable construction, Pacific Beach's "Pleasure Pier" is certainly a notable one. ​

Courtesy of kenjonesfishing.com

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The Roxy Theater

Until the early 1980s Pacific Beach housed the Roxy Theater which saw bands like the Police, Dire Straits, and Iggy Pop play on its stage. Sadly, the theater was eventually torn down to make way for the post office which was moved from Garnet Avenue. ​

Courtesy of johnfry.com

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The Improv

Once located next to Denny's at the end of Garnet where The Backyard currently sits today, The Improv existed into the 1990s. It was a place for young performers to showcase their talents or, in some cases, lack thereof.

Courtesy of johnfry.com

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Today, there are less attractions like these in Pacific Beach as rents have increased and the neighborhood is thriving on it's outdoor activities like surf lessons, bike rentals and Segway tours as well as its huge, varied selection of places to get food and drink. Check out or other article to read more about some of the best restaurants in Pacific Beach.

With two escape rooms open in Pacific Beach and a third slated to open by the end of the Summer, we at Quicksand Escape Games hope we can become Pacific Beach's next Roxy Theater or "Pleasure Pier". A place to get out of the sun for a little while and be entertained in between craft beers and ice cream cookie sandwiches. ​