Bettering yourself by the beach

Despite the rush of intentions and resolutions (and despite our sunny beach weather), it’s still the middle of winter. Traditionally, restarts belong to spring. So if you’re craving a little more rest, slowness or breathing room right now, try not to pressure yourself to reinvent your life on Jan. 1. You have time to build toward whatever this year will become.

And if you are someone who loves to set goals and dive in early, you’re in good company. There’s no shortage of ways to support a fresh start right here in our beach communities.

One of my personal goals this year is to improve my chess game. Did you know Pacific Beach has a chess club? They meet every Thursday at the Tap Room. All levels are welcome! You can learn more at @beersbythebaychess on Instagram.

If creativity is calling in 2026, Merkari Spaces is a co-working and art collective inside the Historic Dunaway building in PB, designed for people who want to make and build alongside others.

And if wellness or fitness is top of mind, there’s always something new to explore. Fit Athletic just opened a social club and co-working space in Mission Beach. Day passes are $11 and include access to saunas and cold plunges.

However you’re entering the year, gently or full-speed ahead, there’s space here for both. May 2026 be about finding your rhythm, leaning into community and choosing goals that support the life you want to live.