Coastal Bliss on Torrey Pines Beach Trail

Marvel at the breathtaking ocean views, explore intriguing geological wonders, and encounter vibrant wildlife on the Torrey Pines Beach Trail!

Last updated: May 2024

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Free
146 Miles from you
State Gem: Exceptional experiences within your state that are bucket list-worthy
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Description

Embrace the beauty of San Diego's coast as you embark on the Torrey Pines Beach Trail, a scenic 3-mile loop offering panoramic ocean views and an up-close look at unique rock formations. As you traverse the path, you'll appreciate the vibrant hues and textures of the cliffs and experience the thrill of spotting native wildlife. Descend the Beach Trail to feel the sand between your toes and watch the waves crash against Flat Rock. Time your hike right, and you can even return along the beach during low tide for an unforgettable coastal experience.

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For families with kids

For parents and grownups

Outdoorsy

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Itinerary

Start at the trailhead/parking area
Hike up the paved path to the top of Torrey Pines
Descend the Beach Trail to the beach
Explore Flat Rock and the beach
Optionally, return along the beach during low tide
Complete the loop and return to the trailhead/parking area

Location & Hours

12599 Torrey pines park Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037

Show directions

Working Hours

Mon7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Tue7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Wed7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Thu7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Fri7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Sat7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Sun7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Packing List

Sunscreen
Hat
Sunglasses
Comfortable, sturdy shoes
Water bottle
Snacks

5 ● Google reviews

This trailhead is a nice trailhead to an amazing loop trail that provides access to the beach and some nice landmarks, and this is an easy way to see the Torrey Pines. This trailhead is also used to access all the landmarks in the park.

Beautiful loop hike, especially when the tide is low. The property/landscape is very well kept and preserved. Make sure you arrive early to park by the beach, free of charge to hike up and in. If you arrive later, park parking is available with bathroom stations. If you have a National Park Pass, you're G2G.

I absolutely loved this trail! Very different from the trails I’m used to in Southern AZ. The views of the cliffs and ocean were something else!! Not to mention everything that was blooming (came in late July). I loved the comb of hiking down to the beach, then walking along shore back to the parking lot. Got the best of worlds (land & sea)!!!

One of the very best short hikes in San Diego area. Amazing views and adventures await. Not handicap or wheelchair accessible. Trail is nicely maintained, but lots of stairs and some erosion is common at the bottom. The beach is beautiful. Cliffs, sand, rocks, and a few tide pools. A very popular place.

There are a couple of ways to hit this trailhead. Option one: pay $15, drive through the state park, and park right at the top—kind of boring. Option two (the move): park for free on the road before the park, walk about a mile uphill, explore a bunch of other trails along the way, and then hit the trailhead. We went with option two—zero regrets!

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