Playland

Playland at the beach.

Ocean Beach has a long history with merrymaking. Going back to the late 1800s, this site held an elaborate seaside carnival, a tradition that continued in different forms through to the modern era, forming a San Francisco tradition that longtime locals will remember well: Playland at the Beach. Roller coasters, tasty treats like Its-It ice cream sandwiches and all kinds of attractions, like the Camera Obscura (still operational behind the Cliff House) were a draw for decades.