As a Northern California native, the idea of living near the beach was always a distant dream until I got my acceptance letter to San Diego State. Even now that I live in San Diego, the sun-soaked beach towns have not lost their allure.

If you’re trying to get away from the inland areas and you’re looking for a good reason to skip class every other day, I’d recommend moving near one of the beaches. There’s a plethora of options for every beach bum, and each neighborhood has its own unique personality.

Though the commute can get a bit snarled with traffic, it only takes between 20-25 minutes to get to campus. The average cost of renting a two-bedroom apartment in the beach areas is about $1,600 and the average cost of a three-bedroom house is about $3,200.

Pacific Beach area is home to a younger crowd, and is known for the testosterone-heavy bar-lined streets. Its typically filled with college kids, and is famous for rowdy Taco Tuesdays, which are the perfect time to get cheap food and drinks within walking distance to the beach.

The Ocean Beach neighborhoods mellow out the beach scene, with a more laid-back, surfer vibe. The community of self-proclaiming “Obecians” has a lot to offer, with hidden intimate beaches and excellent dive bars. Plus, OB Noodle House has the best pho in town.

Last but not least, there’s the Mission Beach neighborhood. While Mission is catered to tourists a bit more than the other beach towns, it’s still a good time. Locals can spend the day at the ocean or visit Belmont Park or the Wave House.

Photo courtesy of Thinkstock.