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Torrey Pines State Reserve
Categories: Active Life Parks Active Life Hiking Active Life Beaches Parks, Hiking, Beaches [Edit]
12600 N Torrey Pines RdLa Jolla, CA 92039
(858) 755-2063
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
302 reviews for Torrey Pines State Reserve
302 reviews in English
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Review from Kristin C.
West Los Angeles, CA
1/23/2012 2 photos
I have been to Torrey Pines State Reserve more times than I can remember, and it is just as beautiful and renewing each and every time.
The sunset. The cliffs. Its gorgeous!!
Take Carmel Valley road until you get to the beach, and park. No need to park inside the park. Walking up the hill will keep you warm against the cool ocean breeze. The hill is a great workout/warmup. Once you get to the top, there are many trails to choose from, and equally full of adventure. They are each quite short though, so plan to do a few. My favorite leads you down to the beach, and then you can take a stroll in the sand all the way back to the car.
Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time. -
Review from Deanna C.
San Marcos, CA
1/15/2012 3 photos
This is one of my favorite spots in San Diego! When ever I'm here I realize how thankful I am to be in Southern California after growing up in the midwest!
I used to work in Carmel Valley so I'd grab lunch and go sit by the beach and enjoy the piece and quiet.
I had the joy of introducing two friends to the hiking trails on Christmas day. Neither of them new that there were trails with awesome ocean views! Wearing shorts and hiking on Christmas day! AMAZING!!!!
$10.00 to drive up to the top and park or you can park below and do the crazy walk up the steep hill. -
Review from Leslie C.
San Diego, CA
1/6/2012
Great set of trails. Not the most intense hike, which I liked since I'm not the most avid hiker. More about taking in the natural drama of the cliffs and the ocean, which were beautiful as everyone has been saying. We managed to find parking down at the beach for free (we got there around 920 am) but by the time we came back lots of people were fighting for a spot so keep that in mind.
Take a few minutes to look at the little museum at the top of the hill! it's cute and educational! :) -
Review from Jen Z.
San Diego, CA
2/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
Best place to go hiking in San Diego. Very little places to pick nick though.
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Review from Marvin S.
1/4/2012 1 Check-in Here
Simply beautiful! Krystle and I came here yesterday for a nice walk on the beach. I don't think I appreciate San Diego as much as I used to anymore. That is, until we find a gem or two. Torrey Pines State Reserve is one of those gems. The beautiful rock along the beach is amazing and seeing all the rock washed up ashore makes me want to pick every one of them up to toss back into the ocean.
Definitely a place we'd like to come back to often. I will try to bring my running shoes sometime, so I can take advantage of the trails and running on the beach. I'd like to explore every inch of this place next time! Parking kinda sucks, unless you want to pay $10 to park in the private lot across the street. -
Review from Rachel L.
San Diego, CA
Ummmm.... I'd totally give this place a 9 star if I could and not a 10 star because it isn't dog friendly. But it is still San Diego at it's finest. And the workout is exhilarating. There are so many different levels of difficulty and the view is spectacular. Don't forget to bring a camera!!!
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Review from Danny S.
12/25/2011
When it comes to preserving natural areas, there are two basic philosophies that tend to divide nature lovers against each other. In one camp, there are the people who think that natural areas should be developed for the enjoyment of the common folks. Trails should be large and smooth, beautiful places should be easily-reached, and no one should feel too intimidated to show up. In the other camp, there are the people who grimace when they encounter others in the wild, who think that trails should be made just barely passable, and who would prefer if they had to earn the best experiences in a park through hard work and perseverance.
As far as natural areas go, Torrey Pines is an unambiguous tribute to the interests of the former group. The entire system of trails can be easily completed in one afternoon without really breaking a sweat, and one is never much more than a mile away from pavement (the longest trail in the park is 1.3 miles long). My girlfriend and I visited on a cool, cloudy Saturday in December and found the park filled with visitors -- presumably the place would have been crawling on a nicer day. If we had been hoping for the wilderness experience, then we would have been sorely disappointed.
Luckily, however, we arrived knowing what to expect. Upon waking up we had decided that we were in no mood to tackle a long hike up Mount Woodson, and so we had opted instead for a casual stroll along the beach at Torrey Pines. With that objective in mind, Torrey Pines delivered quite nicely. The vegetation was beautiful and diverse, the vistas were impressive and plentiful, and we started getting to beautiful areas within just minutes of setting out on the trails. The park also boasts "the rarest pine in the United States" -- the eponymous Torrey Pine -- which is at least a little neat, even if the pine itself is rather unremarkable.
All in all, I wouldn't say that the experience was particularly unique or spectacular, but it was definitely nice, and if I were a San Diego resident I would be happy to have this place nearby. If you don't go with the wrong idea, you definitely won't regret your visit.Listed in: A Weekend in San Diego
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Review from Maria C.
My first visit and it was memorable!!!
Actually it was both our first time running thru the trails. There were so many paths to choose from and lots of vantage points that overlook the ocean. It was such a beautiful sight to see the sunsetting from various spots on the reserve.
We took the beach path down to the sand. Be mindful where you step, and run when there's light. Once you get to the beach, it's a nice run along the stretch.
Will definitely come back to check out the other trails and start my training for the new year.
Note: Park in the strip lot before the parking lot. It's FREE! Otherwise, there's a fee. -
Review from Jessica C.
Santa Barbara, CA
1/5/2012
The views are beautiful (and rightly deserve 5 stars), but the hiking is basic at best. Not very challenging at all!
The trails are well maintained and clean. There are tons of benches to sit and enjoy the view. You can pay $10 to park in the state park or park outside the park and walk up an insanely steep hill for 30 minutes to get to the hiking trails. -
Review from s h l.
San Diego, CA
12/29/2011
So amazing and crazy beautiful!
The views are fantastic and the trails are definitely doable.
The trails aren't bad and you get great views as you hike.
There's something for everyone whether you're hiking, biking, running, etc...
The parking is 10 bucks but this can be avoided if you park by the beach but if you want a beach spot definitely come early! -
Review from Darius D.
San Diego, CA
12/19/2011
I come to Torrey Pines at least once a week, usually more. It is a great place to jog, enjoy the beach, hike, bike, and enjoy nature. There is plenty of parking that is free, but if you feel like money is no problem, you can park right next to the hike for $10. However, I never find a need for that unless you go on a very nice day on Sunday.
The Hike itself can be as long as you want it to. You can start with a big incline and enjoy the trails at the top with several points overlooking the ocean. You can also follow the beach and hike up from there. They have several trails that loop around and lead back to the main road, so you really can't get lost.
Although the beach itself is nothing to rave about, it is nice enough to spend a warm afternoon with your friends. I do not see myself getting tired of this place because it offers such a variety of views. Watching the sunsets here is great as well :) -
Review from Kathleen M.
Frankfort, IL
10/13/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Our hotel was right in back of this park so it was easy to get to for us. Such a lucky break!
It is why San Diego is such a great place to visit - because of the beautiful nature in parks like this. Our hotel gave us maps so the whole experience was stress free and enjoyable.
If you are in the area, check it out!Listed in: San Diego experience
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Review from April P.
San Diego, CA
1/13/2012
This park is gorgeous has many paths to choose from. That being said it's a little too popular for me. Depending on the day it can be really crowded. Definitely don't pay for parking, it's easy to find. The trails are all very easy but if you want some beautiful walks on the beach it's exactly what you're looking for.
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Review from Brit D.
Chandler, AZ
1/11/2012 4 photos
Beautiful beach, however it's always nearly impossible to find parking by the beach, and when you do, the beach is packed. I do give it 5 stars though because it's so pretty!
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Review from Karen C.
10/3/2011 1 photo
The natural beauty of Torrey Pines State Reserve impressed me so much I wrote a haiku:
Blood-orange slice of moon,
the Red Tide's waves glows turquoise,
white stars and sea fog.
My visit to San Diego was serendipitous, it coincided with the algae blooms of the Red Tide so I got to see the "Aurora Borealis of The Sea". In the daylight the Red Tide is this unappealing brick-red color but at night the waves crash up on the shore the algae is bioluminescence. The breaking waves sound like distant thunder and as it rolls along the blue-green light looks like spectral fire.
As the night progressed a low hanging moon turned from the yellow of a candle flame to a red-orange. The stars were shining bright and clearly, in LA you can sometimes forget the stars are there with so much light pollution. The sea fog that came in shrouded other beach-goers silhouettes adding to the already ethereal feeling of the night.
This experience was only magical because so many senses were engaged. The roaring of the waves, the feel of the fine sand of the beach squish underfoot, the briny smell of the ocean that you can almost taste on the mist in the air, wood smoke, and the coolness of the water.
I know it's cliche to "enjoy romantic moon-lit walks on the beach" but seeing the Red Tide in another light is recommend.
Note: This long stretch of beach is so flat, it looks looks optimal for skim-boarding. -
Review from Mel S.
Del Mar, CA
1/9/2012 1 photo
I love the views here! It's got a few different hiking paths/trails for different terrains and different capabilities. Plenty of people visit here, but it didn't seem crowded.
I am an active 25yr old, so more than a hefty work out it was a nice walk around with some good climbs uphill at points, but nothing too strenuous. Gorgeous sights, trees, wildlife, posted signs telling you about the history of the place. The ocean looks incredible from up there!
Walking from the parking lot at the bottom of the hill would be the most climbing you'll do here, so if you don't want to do that much I'd advise driving up further to a few other parking spots nearer the trail entrances. I think there are four or five trails.
Lots of families, kids seemed to enjoy it, great exercise without exhausting them.
I spent about 2hours walking all the trails there were, except I didn't have time to take the one down to the beach. So it's a good way to kill a few hours on a Sunday afternoon with the family, get healthy, and see some awesome views! -
Review from Denise T.
9/17/2011
Best hike I've ever went on! Torrey pines has the best views of the Pacific with really easy trails and pretty little shrubs and flowers along the way. I'm not really into hiking to be honest, but I wanted to do something out of my comfort zone. This was perfect because I'm a beginner hiker and this was relatively easy AND I love pretty much anything that involves viewing something aesthetically naturesque.The hardest part of the hike was the paved street leading up to the beginning of the trails after parking our car. No joke!
What I loved the most (after the awesome views) were all the benches located all throughout the trails. LOL. My boyfriend and I were able to stop and enjoy lunch and look at the shimmering blue waters pretty much anytime we wanted because benches were everywhere.
Anyhow, parking is completely free, the trails are super easy, you'll be hiking right along the ocean. Pack a light snack or lunch. Doesn't get any better! -
Review from Caroline P.
San Diego, CA
10/11/2011
Park along the street if you can, as to avoid parking fees....you'll probably have to walk up the big hill no matter what.
Great views, easy hike. We take visitors here and they all love it. -
Review from Ryan L.
San Diego, CA
10/27/2011
This is my favorite place in San Diego. I really don't understand how anyone prefers Del Mar or La Jolla Shores to Torrey Pines. All of those huge houses at those beaches, mocking you and your career choices! The cliffs are a welcome change. Never TOO busy. The parking lot does charge but is free with a California State Parks pass (come on, buy one, California is broke!).
This review is solely for the beach. South of the bridge is very kid friendly while north is much quieter. A quick walk south runs into tide pools and naked old dudes at Black's.
People rave about the trails as well but that sounds like exercise to me. -
Review from Burrito M.
San Francisco, CA
10/15/2011
I was quite skeptical when I saw the 5 star x 280+ reviews on yelp for Torrey Pines State Reserve. Seriously? A perfect rating from that many people?
However, I must say this spot is really beautiful and interesting. From the varied trails, to the awesome clean beach littered with unique rocks and shells (surprisingly, no trash!), the gentle waves, to the breathtaking views, it was pretty dang sweet. The hikes aren't technically hard, but nice for wandering around on a Saturday afternoon. On top of that, there are decent bathrooms which is rare for a State Park.
Only teeny kvetch is the $10 entry fee for parking, I guess it's to keep this place maintained. Though, I noticed an area where you can park right in front of the entrance, we might try to find a spot there and walk to the trails next time. -
Review from Christina K.
La Jolla, CA
8/22/2011
I hiked here on Sunday with a bunch of friends. It was a good experience. This is a great place for beginning hikers or if you want a relaxing hike. None of the trails are very rigorous. The hardest one was not very hard, it was just longer than the other ones. You get great views of the ocean and there are many good spots for photo-ops, which many of my friends and their fancy DSLRs took.
Hiking early in the day is best so you will not get too hot or sweaty. We started at 10am and it was chilly in the morning but by 2pm, we were all glad we did not bring jackets. The trails are moderately crowded depending on the time of the day. If you are capable, taking more than one route is easy. It is better to park at the top of the hill instead of the parking lot near the beach because then you do not have to hike up the long hill.
The only complaint is that parking is 10 dollars but we don't mind giving money to support a beautiful state reserve. I heard rumors that they might tear down the reserve for condos (from a random hiker) but I HOPE THAT IS NOT TRUE :O
If you are a San Diego resident and have not been here, you are at a loss! -
Review from Kim K.
San Gabriel, CA
10/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
It was a perfect Saturday to go hiking. We parked in the upper parking lot for $10. You could also park on the street along the beach for free, and then walk about 1 mi up to the Visitor Center/Museum.
You're given a handy-dandy map. So the BF and I decided to zig-zag thru 3 of the trails, which connect to each other:
1. Razor Point Trail to Razor Point
2. Walked to.Yucca Point
3. Took Beach Trail down to Flat Rock
4. Took Broken Hill Trail back up to the road.
(There's also a map on their website)
The view is serene. And because there are so many trails, you won't be sharing the hike with that many people. The trails are extremely easy. Next time I come, I'll park on the street for free, since the entire hike doesn't seem that hard. -
Review from Ryan S.
San Diego, CA
12/4/2011 24 Check-ins Here
Great place to hike or exercise. Monitor the tides as it can cover the entire beach on the South side. The staff have done a great job over the years grooming the trails and making it a more safe place to hike. Note, the trails are all dirt so I do not recommend a baby stroller like many people have "tried."
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Review from Trish C.
Vista, CA
8/15/2011
This place is gorgeous.
I made a new friend in town and we met up here... the trails are beautiful and definitely fun to hike along. Eventually, one trail lead to the beach, which for a Saturday wasn't crowded at all. The scenic views are breathtaking -- I wish I had spent a bit more time looking around, but I was more focused on getting to know my new friend.
Things I noticed were the para sailing (you can see colorful parachutes if you look south), and, if you walk far enough to the deserted area past this huge eroded platform of a rock, you hit the infamous Black's Beach!!!
I wanted to wander further and actually see how open nudity works, but propriety with my new buddy told me otherwise. This is definitely a place to explore, even with those buff in the buff. Look up 'Black's Beach Bares' for those interested and over 18.
I may have to consider buying a state parking pass. The free parking during the time I went (2:00PM) was a bit too busy, so you're still going to have to cough up $10 for parking (no exceptions: even if you ride a motorcycle, even if you're just dropping off or picking someone up, you really need to by the all day pass).
For this place, it's worth it.
Man, I wish I took more pictures!!!
If I go back here, I might want to visit on a less busy time of year, if such a time exists. It's the summer (and tail end at that), so there were a lot of people, including one really inconsiderate couple making out on the butte. The rest of the folks visiting are actually very nice, considerate, and mature. As you walk by, it's pleasant feeling to get the "Hi!" or "Hello :)" when squeezing along the stairs and steps. -
Review from Kassy M.
Brooklyn, NY
Torrey Pines is BEAUTIFUL! By far my favorite beach out of a bunch that I visited in California.
Finding a parking spot here sucks, but even if it takes a while and/or you have to walk a bit to get to the beach, it's all worth it.
Come here for:
- The awesome trails! They have different difficulty levels
- Gorgeous view
- A crowded touristy experience or a more private, quiet experience, as the beach has different areas/towers
- Awesome plants! -
Review from J. P.
San Diego, CA
11/27/2011
Aside from maybe Point Lobos State Park in Carmel, Torrey Pines has to be the most breathtakingly beautiful place in the U.S. to hike! Every, single time I hike/run here (which is at least twice a month) I always come away feeling so lucky to live near such an amazing place!
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Review from Yvonne C.
4/28/2011 ROTD 1/1/2012
Ahhh, Torrey Pines how I love thee....
You can park for free down below and walk up the hill.
That hill though almost killed my BFF, Marbella...but once you make it to the top the trails are pretty easy. It's so beautiful up there the views are amazing.
It's definitely a "must do" when you come to San Diego -
Review from Jaimee H.
Growing up on an island, I've had my fair share of BBQs on the beach. Coconut trees, white sand, warm ocean water, and the smell of BBQ chicken and ribs. Beaches always bring me back to my roots and therefore, I always have big expectations.
We decided to check out the beach today since the weather was perfect and it was a holiday. We've never been here before so we didn't know what to expect except for what we read on Yelp. Parking was a little difficult to find and quite confusing if you ask me. Although the beach was easy to spot, the hiking trail and its parking wasn't. You can either settle for paid parking ($10) or street parking. After 15-20 minutes of driving around we found some street parking.
Although the beach was crowded, it was a pleasant sight. There were so many families laid out on their beach chairs and blankets with the kids playing in the sand and in the water. It was interesting to see all the sand castles, both small and big. The sand was a perfect blend of sand and water... perfect for sand castles.
This beach would be perfect if only people were allowed to BBQ. We had to bring our own sandwiches, chips, and drinks. I definitely think this one of the better beaches here in San Diego. The waves and ocean were nice for playing in and the sand was perfect for sand castles and relaxing. Very clean too. -
Review from Ray H.
San Diego, CA
11/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
awesome place for an easy hike. great views, cool ocean breezes, great air quality, and sometimes great bird watching.
nestled between la jolla and del mar (2 of the more affluent parts of san diego), you can sneak in a quick hike and then have lunch have any of the smaller restaurants nearby. -
Review from Julia M.
San Diego, CA
11/26/2011
Torrey Pines State Reserve is one of the most beautiful leisure walk/hike you can take with your family. It is an easy to moderate walk/hike and it has the most beautiful breathtaking views of San Diego. I sold a property to a client that relocated from Boston and recommended for him and his wife to walk/hike Torrey Pines State Reserve that was only 5 miles from the vacation home they purchase. They loved it and thanked me for recommending it to them! My friends and I meet on the weekends at Torrey Pine State Reserve and Luv it! We park at the street level and walk/hike up! Great Girl talk and lunch afterwards! Just have Fun... you will love it too!
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Review from Michael H.
Milwaukee, WI
7/20/2011
Nature this beautiful is deserving of 5 stars.
Admittedly, I went on the website before making the trip here and saw that it "opened" at 9am. Yes, I was convinced for a brief moment that mother nature has store hours.
Realistically, its the paid parking area and ranger station that it was referring to. On a quiet Wednesday morning, around 6:30am, I found that it was starting to buzz with hikers, joggers, Lance Armstrong wannabes, and me.
This early in the morning midweek, it was by far the best time to go. Not only was the free parking plentiful, but I was in for a treat:
A quiet, SOLO hike on the Guy Fleming trail. No joke.
With nobody else on the trail, I was able to enjoy the northern and southern views of the Pacific; able to hear the waves and critters wrestling in the bushes without others conversing.
Namaste, biatches!
If you are a business traveler staying at the Hilton Del Mar, its probably the one touristy thing you can conceivably do while you are out there (and get a nice, moderate workout).
If your workday starts at 9am, going to the park by 6:30 am will allow you to walk the 2/3 mile trail...twice...and enjoy the lookouts at a real comfortable pace...allow you to walk barefoot on the beach...get a Starbucks in the village Del Mar...and get back to the hotel by 8-8:30.
Definately recharges the batteries for a workweek and works off the Double Double you ate at In-N-Out the night before. -
Review from Carlos Q.
San Diego, CA
5/28/2011 3 Check-ins Here
This is my absolute favorite beach in all San Diego.
I come here mainly to run up the hill and through the park and then maybe soak my legs in the water after because not only is it a great work out but the views are amazing.
Guy Flemming Trail (halfway up the hill) has an amazing view where you can see La Jolla shores and Del Mar and has a few benches so you can bring a date or your BF or GF for a romantic-ish setting.
For all those that don't wanna pay for parking, simply park on Carmel Valley Rd. which has free street parking and then walk over to the beach through the little parking structure and under the 101. The great thing about when you come back to your car is that you're next to all those restaurants in case you wanna grab a bite.
You stay classy San Diego! -
Review from Marcia P.
7/26/2011 1 photo
Gosh I love this place.
If I lived nearby I'd definitely buy the yearlong parking pass.
We've been going for 15+ years, for a couple of weeks every summer while in SD.
Love to jog, hike, swim and build sand castles here.
Kinda cloggy by the stairs, but walk down a bit and you've got space, beauty and nature's playground.
Sometimes we see dolphins in the late afternoon and the occasional sea lion just swimming by to say hi. -
Review from Kate G.
7/25/2011 1 Check-in Here
This is probably the prettiest area in San Diego. And if you know me, you know that I don't find San Diego particularly pretty.. so to refer to something here as being pretty or nice to look at, it must be.
This review is actually for the beach area. Parking isn't bad. You either have to pay a few dollars or just try to find parking on the street nearby, which isn't impossible. It's a great beach for boogie boarding or packing a picnic lunch and enjoying it on the sand.
Beware: jellyfish. That's all I must say. And if you notice that my review IS actually 5-stars, you'll see that it can't be THAT big of a deal. Because it's not. Go to the beach and in the ocean and risk being attacked by a jellyfish. No big deal. All is good! -
Review from Lindsay K.
San Diego, CA
7/28/2011 1 photo
I love Torrey Pines State Reserve & Beach! During the winter months when it's not beach weather I come here and hike along the trails for exercise. During the summer months, I bring my kids here weekly for lazy days at the beach. Its wonderful!
I live close enough so I bought a CA state parks parking pass instead of paying $10 parking each visit. I think the parking fee is a bit steep, but when you take into consideration that this is a State maintained natural reserve and our state is in dire need of help, then go ahead and charge it to make sure we keep our pristine beach beautiful! Have you been to O'side beach lately? If you don't want to pay for parking, then get there early and park in the free spots on the roadside. I'll repeat GET THERE EARLY.
If you haven't been here yet, take half a day & check it out. Go hike to the top of the cliffs and just take in the beauty of the ocean. Once you're up there its hard not to consider San Diego "America's finest city"! -
Review from Kathy W.
7/17/2011 4 photos
After hearing about this place from people living in San Diego, I was excited to hike it. This reserve has a serene feeling to it and is not too bad of a hike. And of course it has a gorgeous view of the ocean. There is only a semi-steep hill and then the rest is flat line. My friends and I took the beach trail, which begins/ends with flat rock (depending on where you start). Since our ending was at the flat rock, we walked alongside beach to get a full experience of San Diego.
Located near alongside a beach. One can pay for parking for $8 or can park on the street and walk about 0.5 miles. Definitely a place to check out if you are looking for some hiking venues in San Diego. -
Review from Kristin F.
San Diego, CA
Skimmed through a bunch of reviews before heading to Torrey Pines State Reserve for the first time yesterday. The main information I gathered from the reviews?
(1) The hiking trails, with perhaps the exception of the "big hill," are pretty easy.
(2) One can attempt to street park for free or enter the reserve and pay $10/carload to park.
(3) Ocean, cliff, and hill views are stunning.
Perfect, seemed like a good place to break in some of our new hiking gear--specifically my boyfriend's boots--for our May trip to Yosemite. Plus, shame on us, we've lived in San Diego for a combined 10+ years and have never been here.
My intention to street park for free was ruined when I took an early turn and, unable to reverse my car, was funneled past the Torrey Pines State Reserve sign and towards the admission/pay booth. Damn it. The $10 parking lot fee seems manageable for those who don't visit the reserve often, but I can certainly understand how the parking situation could frustrate regulars.
Paid and was given a Trail Guide at the admission booth, parked at the lowest level lot by the beach, and then followed everybody else past the picnic tables and restrooms up the gradual hill to the marked trails. Noticed several more levels of parking at the top of the hill.
The Torrey Pines Lodge (a.k.a. Visitor's Center) is interesting. The building is a combination of a mini-museum and a gift shop. According to the plaque near the back door, the Torrey Pines Lodge is "constructed of adobe material taken from the site, completed in 1923. A liberal gift from Miss Ellen Browning Scripps."
We're quite out of shape but found the "big hill" and all the trails we hiked to be far from challenging. We covered every major trail except the Beach Trail. The Broken Hill Trail, the only 1+ mile trail, was the one that involved relatively significant portions of elevation change and made us sweat a bit. All other trails are well under 1 mile each, most of them loops. I'd have to say the most disappointing discovery during our trip to Torrey Pines State Reserve was that at least 2 trails--the Guy Fleming Trail and the Parry Grove Trail--were partially closed due to budget cuts.
From the Trail Guide:
"Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a fragile wilderness island in an urban sea: home of our nation's rarest pine tree--Pinus torreyana--which grows only here and on Santa Rosa Island off the coast near Santa Barbara."
All things considered, Torrey Pines State Reserve gets 4 stars from me.Listed in: San Diego Sun, San Diego Area Hikes, My Reviews of the Day
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Review from shalini g.
San Diego, CA
I have not been here since i was a kid...the $10 parking fee is what has scared me away all these years...but my girlfriend really wanted to go here today and check it out...so we did.
tip...make sure to bring exact change for parking ($10)...if there is no attendant...you stuff the $$ in an box...we got there and the box was overstuffed...and we didn't have change, so hubby drove to Roberto's to get change and a giant soda for me. there are no food establishments within a reasonable walking distance, so bring what you need.
so a little rough of a start...
we went with two other families ...while the men went to go get change, we set up camp...
i am mostly comparing to the beach at power house park (15th street in del mar)....b/c that is my usual spot
here are the plus sides...
1) clean bathrooms
2) bathrooms super close
3) tons of lifeguards...feel safe
4) river outlet to water...great for the kids to play in! made me feel safer than having them in the ocean waves before the daddos came back to plunge in the cold water
5) less crowded than powerhouse park
6) way easy parking (i think it's worth the $10 just for the ease of it all)
cons...
1) no handicapped access....
2) no food close by
3) no playground
4) no handsoap in bathrooms (not the end of the world...but powerhouse park does have soap...plus for them!)
ya that's it...the plus' outweigh the cons...and i found out that we can get a season parking pass here....might be worthwhile...plus it might force us to do some hiking!
i am sorry that i have neglected the advice of so many people all these years and not gone...thank you Ani G for the suggestion! -
Review from April B.
4/18/2011
BEST place to do absolutely everything!!
- Swimming/Beachin it
- Running
- Biking
- Jogging
- Hiking
This is why I love SD and why the WEST coast is the BEST coast! Don't hate.
If you're from out of town you must come here and experience the lovely view over looking the beach. It's frikkken amazing!
My friend and I got the free parking on the side and walked up the hill to get a little warm up before our hike. Plus I didn't wanna pay for the parking so I consider us lucky for finding parking on the side of the beach. We started the trail and the view of the water is indescribable. I can't believe I live here and how I don't take advantage of places like these. I think I really do take San Diego for granted. Not anymore!
After taking a few pictures off the cliff we walked down to the beach. Took some more pictures and walked back up which was the hard part because it was mostly all stairs. I would say this is the easiest hike I've done but it's definitely worth it because the scenery is to die for. With that said there is a lot of people that go here, plus we did go on a Saturday which is probably the worse day to go.
I'll will be back FOR SURE.Listed in: Lets Get Hiking!
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Review from Cal F.
6/6/2011
Beautiful place to go!! The scenery is gorgeous, the "hikes" are fun, and the staff in the visitor's center are very nice.
It's a bit too small to plan a whole day around, in a morning or afternoon you could easily zip around the whole thing!
Makes me wish more of the California coastline had been preserved like this.
