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Torrey Pines State Reserve
Rating Details »
12600 N Torrey Pines Rd
Jct N Torrey Pines Rd and Coast Hwy 101
La Jolla, CA 92039
(858) 755-2063
Jct N Torrey Pines Rd and Coast Hwy 101
La Jolla, CA 92039
(858) 755-2063
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
117 reviews for Torrey Pines State Reserve
They were talking about closing Torrey Pines because of our budget crises and I panicked. Thank goodness they are keeping it open.
I think everybody who loves this place should visit soon and support it.
It's such a special part of San Diego.
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5/17/2009
I love Torrey Pines State Reserve- the trails are beautiful and are relaxing not strenuous.
This is… Read more »
I love this place! It is so beautiful, and I great place to spend your day on a patch of the extensive beach OR hiking around the trails up the hill from the parking lot.
Its awesome because you can enjoy it for free if you're lucky enough to find parking on the street (go during the week if you can!), or just pay the 6-8$ and park in 1 of the 2 main parking lots. It was a busy Saturday in July, and I found parking in the parking lot. The beach was busy, but if you hike a little north or south of the main parking lots, you will find a nice large patch of unoccupied space. I especially am fond of this beach / reserve because its not as touristy as Mission/PB/Shores can get.
If you enter in the parking lot by the hill, you can drive up and park at the top...a good spot to park if your planning on hiking their wondrous trails. Some of them even lead to other less crowded patches of beach... although you might have to climb some.
There are endless things to do here...I spent all day!
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Best views in San Diego! Walk or run the cliff trails and beach. Climb rocks. Eat burritos on a bench.
I always mean to go hiking/running at other San Diego parks, but it's hard to convince myself to go anywhere other than Torrey Pines because I'm so certain it can't be beat.
Give yourself propers if you can run up the big hill from the base of the cliffs to the top!
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Whether it's morning or evening, running here is amazing. Weather isn't too hot and the sites are amazing.
Who knew that a desert going to the beach could be so great.
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1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/27/2009
Please take one dose of Torre Pines State Reserve to get rid of the following symptoms.
1) Stress… Read more »
Holy moly.
Perhaps my review is a little biased because I'm from New York City. Not only is seeing nature a treat, but seeing something other than east coast foliage is a treat, too.
Bias aside, I'll still contend that Torrey Pines was absolutely amazing and some of the most beautiful views I've had the honor of witnessing. Red cliffs, crazy cactii, interesting but not dangerously challenging trails, very friendly people (New Yorkers wouldn't say hi to each other on the trail like San Diegons did.) The red cliffs cutting into the pristine waterfront were the absolute best part.
This is my new "happy place" for when I'm stressed out.
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OMG!! it was insane parking yesterday (due to all the people at the beach) but the hike was worth it. It cost $8.00 to park so plan ahead and if there isn't any parking available on the beach side you will have to park at the lot on the opposite side entrance off of Carmel Valley Road.
There are several trails to choose from and I have done this hike a few times now and I always try to do them all when I visit yesterday I only did the Guy Fleming and the Beach Trail only... we were more focused on getting down to the beach.
They do not allow food on the trails so no areas to picnic and the trash receptacles are located at the Lodge not on any of the trails (for water bottles etc) It was hot and the Guy Fleming trail does have some shady locations I don't think the others do so be prepared.
Respectfully Reviewed
WOW! This place makes me truly appreciative of living in San Diego. I am so lucky to have a super active bf that loves to show me all of the treasures San Diego has to offer. If your a visitor or a new comer or homebody local get out and get over to Torrey pines. Don't mind a little extra exercise -park on the shore or across the tracks for free. Try to go on a weekday so you can be one with nature and not one in a crowd of tourists. We went on a Friday and it was perfect! Great walk or run, there's a bike trail too. Take your camera to capture the views & bring your bathing suit for an after hike dip. Zen.
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Drive up, pay your admission fee, and then take a great hike. You can see pine trees that feel like something you would have seen a dinosaur scratching it's back against. The coast walk is fantastic.
Go. Go now. Go often.
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I would love to see the parking and the traffic organized differently. It is very difficult not because of the lack of parking spaces but they way the park opens and closes and traffic is detoured. I have lots of ideas that could improve it
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I think I am a pretty objective person, so when it comes to grading beautiful places, I always hesitate before I give the highest rating. This place deserves the highest rating. Torrey Pines is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been to in Southern California.
I've been to lots of hikes in the East county with friends, and the only thing I remember about those hikes are the dry, dusty sandy trails and boulders that I climbed up. When we finally reached the top, I was soaked with perspiration and the view was of the 52 and 15 freeways. Sooo anti-climactic.
The hikes at Torrey Pines are totally different, and really represent San Diego in the best possible way. Where else can you find 60 degree weather, a blowing sea breeze and gorgeous views of the cliffs, Torrey Pines trees and here-to-there views of the Pacific Ocean?
If you're lucky enough to park by the beach on the 101 (PCH), that should save you a few bucks. If not, then pay the $8 and zoom up to the top and park near the Visitor's Center. That's the best place to park if you want to be closest to all the trailheads.
We did the Guy Fleming Trail first, which is the easiest trail with the best views. It's only a 2/3 mile loop which has ocean vista views, sandstone formations and chaparral. Lots of picture opportunities on this trail.
Then there's the Parry Grove Trail which isn't as nice, in my opinion, and the views aren't as lovely as the Beach Trail or the Guy Fleming Trail. The first part of the trail is through chaparral and various flowers. Then you descend ~100 steps downwards into the trail and you make a loop. It's a 1/2 mile loop.
The Beach Trail is one of the most popular trails at Torrey Pines, and it's not too difficult. You descend down switch-backs towards the ocean, and it's beautiful. A very cool trail, both literally and figuratively. At the end, you can cut over onto the Broken Hill Trail, which will take you up towards all the biotech companies, UCSD and the Torrey Pines Golf Course, or you can keep going down to the beach down a very short flight of metal stairs. Once you hit the ocean, the cliffs are practically gleaming with gold/yellow undertones. The sand is black/grey, and is a lovely contrast to the cliffs.
All in all, Torrey Pines State Reserve is a beautiful place to spend a half-day. It's worth the $8/vehicle entrance fee to drive up closer to the Visitor's Center and start your day there. This place is such a gem, I"m surprised it's not overidden with tourists at any given time. Compared to lots of the beaches in So Cal (ie Laguna Beach, Malibu, La Jolla), this place has an "untouched," wild feel to it, and you have to go hiking on the trails to experience this place. Awesome!!
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Best scenery, beach walks, and cliff trails in San Diego. Great place to walk or run. Why I don't visit here every day is something I'll certainly wonder about if I ever move away from this city. Parking pass is worth the money at $125 per year. Daily passes are $8. It's easy to visit here more than 16 times per year if you've visited here once.
Best spots: The grove on the south side of the Guy Fleming Trail and the end of the Broken Hill Trail.
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A really beautiful walk, hike or run. Just amazing the views the plants the water the waves ahh. Really I felt like getting naked and I don't mean in a nasty way. I mean it in a Nature type of way like a Hippie would.
The hike is about easy, the trails are clear and not too scary. Did I mention the views? I cost around $8 to get in but you get restrooms and parking and a beautiful State Park.
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Great beach, off the main path, quiet and usually very open. if you head down along the cliffs their is always lots of room. Hell I love to just park along the bank and chill in my car for a while.
I studied their to day and do that sorta thing very often.
Great beach the currents are weird in the water. But generally it is also one of the warmest beaches in SD. and personally the cleanest
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Places like this are what reminds you how beautiful San Diego is. Nothing like watching the sunset from out there or just talking a walk/hike and looking at the trees and plants.
I would also recommend Glider Ports and hiking up and down to blacks.
Last Saturday, my boyfriend and I decided to go for a hike. I mentioned Torrey Pines, and he looked very puzzled. He said, "a walk by the beach you mean?" And I was like, "no no, according to Yelpers, Torrey Pines has the best hiking trails in all of SD."
So that's how it came to be that an Angeleno like me, introduced my boyfriend who grew up and spent all of his 28 years, in San Diego to the Torrey Pines Trails.
It was an amazing hike. We got there at 6:30pm, and only had about an hour before dark, so we hiked the closes trail we found, which was the Guy Fleming Trail. Dramatic views of the ocean brought about talk of Marriage.
HA! For this reason and many many more (awesome landscape, amazing views, beautiful plants, cute bunny rabbits), I love Torrey Pines. :)
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I like to come here instead of the gym on the weekends, I don't park in the lot, I park near the golf course and just jog over to the park. Its a good hike/walk, and I can feel my legs burn afterwards, in a good way.
This place has great views, I haven't seen any animals, but I am cool with that. The tide pool rock is cool too, plus its great to dare friends if they can make it to the rock in-between waves, but then end up soaked and have to walk the rest of the trail with wet pants. Suckers.
Gorgeous views.
$8 parking fee. Will probably go up with state parks losing money.
It was a bit crowded but everyone was very friendly and generally seemed to be in a good mood. Probably the endorphins from exercising.
Good for sight seeing, working out, being with friends, and family.
Road trip stop #2:
Came here for the first time and it took my breadth away. I haven't checked out this place when I was in San Diego, but I almost want to kick myself in the butt for moving away from this city.
Definitely a great day date spot where trails are not too hard and suitable for all ages (including young children). I love how there are places for you to rest/enjoy the view along the trail.
So gents, screw the typical boring dinner date, take that special someone here and you're bound to not go wrong. ^_~
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Just gorgeous. My favorite place to go relax in all of San Diego County. I've been going since high school, and I will keep going as long as I can.
On a sunny day, truly breathtaking views can be found at every turn of the trails. Every cheesy cliche about the virtues of walking through nature is true here. Sea breeze, azure-blue ocean, breathtaking sandstone cliffs, and natural chaparral splendor.
Parking is a bit of a pain. I'm not sure what they're charging these days for the lot, but I never park there. I always go for the free spots right along the beach and walk the extra few hundred feet to the trails.
There are a few ways to do the trails. If you are not in the mood for a workout, you can drive all the way up the hill to the trailhead itself and hike down the beach. Or, you can walk up the paved path (very bike-friendly if you're in good shape for a constant uphill) to the trailhead and hike down. I suggest the beach trail, which, you guessed it, takes you to the beach. Just follow the signs, weave downhill and take in the sights, then take the very accessible staircases (a bit wimpy if you ask me--it used to be a cool cliff-hugging Indiana Jones hike), and you've reached the beach. You can also check out Yucca Point, which offers a really cool overlook. Definite photo opportunity.
If you're extra adventurous, you can start on the beach and run up the cliff trails, instead of taking the paved road, and then just double back to the beach.
If you're not very experienced with San Diego's beaches, it may be a good idea to check with the park rangers about high tide times for the day. I love it when this happens to me, but the less seaworthy among you might not be delighted by the run-swim-run adventure when you get trapped between the cliffs and a rushing tide. Time it right and come at low tide.
Bring a camera, bring a beach towel, bring your family, or bring a date. Don't skip this one.
Apryl and I came here on a very sunny and warm Thursday afternoon. We parked up along the 101 at the very top of the cliffs. Since it was a weekday, we had to pay the City of Del Mar close to $1.50 to park, but we just chanced it.
We stood, side by side, in front of the cliffs and soaked in the warm sun and the salty ocean breezes. When you stand at the edge, you can see crystal clear blue water from one side of your visual field to the other. Nothing but blue water and sky, as far as you can see. The blue from the water and the blue from the sky sort of just fade into a white haze way out there, far away.
After our time on the cliff edge, we followed a trail that led us down to another level below the bridge. We crossed the railroad tracks, after pausing in the center of the two rails to get a really cool picture. After a few minutes, an Amtrak train came roaring past. It was definitely an experience: Behind you the ocean, and a several hundred ton train ripping past your face.
I understand that the oceans are reportedly heavily polluted, but after standing on those cliffs, high above the crashing waves and blue ocean, it just seems unbelievable.
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It was raining heavily early this morning when I went and I loved it.I needed to clear my head and I wanted the alone time so I jumped in my car and headed north towards the 101.
I had the Bartered Bride by Smetana on full blast and it sounded incredible http://www.youtube.com... for those that may not be familiar with it.
It was still dark as night when I got out of my car. It was really too wet to be out hiking but I did a leisurely stroll. I had my coat on so the rain, wind and chill factor did not discourage me. It reminded me alot of Seattle.
I stayed until light shone through the gray skies and then I went and did the Christmas exchange thing with the family.
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I will have two friends over next week. I won't have to defend any prejudices anymore about Americans, because Dutch people simply love all of you. Americans are solely responsible for keeping the local economy alive- even during the crisis. They're the easiest tourists too because they only hang out in the touristic areas so the locals barely see them (some even wonder if Dutch all speak English, no they do not). Anyway, pretty much made it up for the whole George W.-era and made it much easier for me when I have people over. I simply need to explain some differences and answer some questions instead of defending. One thing that will always remain different is the transport. Trams, buses, trains, bikes, tandems, steps, boards, bikes with baskets, more bikes and legs move locals from A to B. Cars in the city are not very handy: bikers rule the traffic and ignore red lights, so it takes forever, you will run over a lost tourist, streets are too small and there is no system in the street names or a tram will hit you. To prepare myself and to let "us Americans" look even better I already jotted down some questions I can expect and there are several answer possibilities for most of them:
- Why are there so many big wheeled high mega SUV's and trucks?
1) it makes drivers feel safer
2) gas is three times cheaper than in Europe, so who cares. Ha!
3) it fits all the surf/paddle/kayak-whatever boards for the entire family
4) status, makes you feel you're the king of the world
5) overcompensation for other shortcomings (also known as the "pinkie syndrome")
6) a combination of the above (which is, yes, the saddest example) or
7) in case it's a woman: terrible parking skills and a scratch is less noticeable on such a big surface or "I have a rich husband so what's the point in driving a small one"
*(please note that these are OR options, don't feel offended and kill me with your big car. Unless you're a 5 or 6- then I can feel your anger).
- What do all the SFSU, UCLA, SDSU and UA signs on cars mean?
These are called bumper stickers. What's the point in going to school if you can't show it off on some adhesive plastic? And another good reason to get a big car. Small cars don't fit multiple bumper stickers and it's cool to send out multiple messages, such as a political preference, that you're rather be surfing or better: golfing (money!) or to let chicks in smaller cars know that you're pretty cool up there yo!
- What does "parking is a pain in the ass" mean?
Hard to park right in front of the destination, pretty easy around the corner or within 2 blocks. And hey, it's pretty entertaining to watch five cars in front of a spot trying to maneuver in a small area while zipping a coffee from a patio. At least it became my new hobby.
- What if I don't want to drive?
1) get some medicine and feel better soon!
2) borrow someone else's car
3) manipulate someone to drive
4) steal a car
5) take the two buses and three sweaty trolleys you need to get there
6) bike
- If I do decide to bike, what are the chances my bike will still be there where I parked it when I come back?
Chances are very slim your bike will be gone, even if you don't use a locker. There are no canals around to throw them in once done using them.
- What's the point in driving to a spot close by?
1) gas is three times cheaper than in Europe, so who cares. Ha # 2.
2) what's the point in having a big car when you can't show it off?
3) Walking more than a few blocks -voluntarily- confuses people and creates honk-reactions. Hiking is what we do here.
- What is hiking?
1) What you call walking.
2) Walking for recreation in designated areas.
- What is the best, most beautiful, diverse and impressive place to go hiking in the San Diego area -possibly in whole Southern California-, makes it almost all up for all the gass spoiling, is already covered in a lot of reviews so no real need to add but simply go, will make you love San Diego and will show that there are a lot of Americans that actually do walk?
1) TORREY PINES!!!
2) Torrey Pines
3) torrey pines
4) Torrie Peins
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This place is incredible. The view, the vibe, the view... did I mention the view?
It's one of my favourite things in the world to park as far down the beach away from the hill as I can, walk down the beach, up the hill, and back down the path, then sit for an hour or two with my toes in the water. There's something totally serene but at the same time exhilarating about it.
Heck, I'll say it: to me, Torrey Pines is one of the best parts about living in San Diego. I bring all of our out of towners here and they fall in love just like I did, the first time I visited.
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One of the more beautiful places in San Diego, and a must-visit if you're a tourist.
What looks like nothing special from the parking lot ends up becoming a breathtaking sight as you climb up the hill towards the apex and hit a museum and a bunch of trails. All the trails are worth walking, especially if you want absolutely droolworthy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego.
The parking lot fee is pretty steep, but it's worth every penny. If you don't want to pay, arrive early and snag one of the free street parking spaces on the 101, in front of Torrey Pines Beach.
Wonderfully cathartic and stress-relieving, every single resident of SD really should explore this place at least once. If I lived closer I'd for sure be here an awful lot.
This place is gorgeous. You can work for the view by parking at the bottom and hoofing it up. If you choose this route, there is some free parking along the beach and the residential streets. You can also drive up if needed.
Very popular for short hikes, running, biking, etc. Nice to take the parents when they are in town visiting.
The La Jolla Half Marathon runs up this hill and it is a beast but there is a great sense of accomplishment when you finally make it.
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For my 100th review I had two criteria: it had to be free and it had to be a five star situation.
Torrey Pines State Beach and Natural Reserve met those criteria perfectly. It is absolutely my favorite beach in San Diego and its an incredible place to relax by the water, eat your lunch or rejuvenate your soul. From the bluffs to the beach to the wetlands, it is, in my opinion one of the most beautiful places in all of San Diego.
A little trivia: Torrey Pines is named after a combination the Torrey Sandstone that sits on top of the Del Mar Foundation which is visible from the beach and the actual Torrey Pine tree that is so prevalent at the top of the reserve.
I often find myself coming out here after work to take an early evening walk at the tide line, letting the waves lap at my bare feet, watching the sea birds like Plovers, Sanderlings, Pelicans and Seagulls fly just inches off the water. On a few occasions I have had the good fortune to see dolphins playing in the surf just off the beach- an incredible sight to say the least. Watching the sun go down here is a transcendent experience and much recommended. Just seeing the hot air balloons to the east turning pink in the sunset is amazing in itself.
Low tides reveal incredible rock formations at the south end of the beach near Flat/ Bathtub Rock and tide pools teeming with small animals like crab, sea anemone, barnacles and small fish as well as many sea plants. You can often see small fish swimming at the tide line as well.
Parking is free directly in front of the beach off Highway 101 or you can pay $8.00 a day for a pass to park in the lot. The money from the pass goes directly back into the park for upgrades and maintenance, so it is worth it to pay to park. The lot has showers, bathrooms and picnic areas to use while you're at the beach. They don't sell food, so bring your own or head into Del Mar and pick something up.
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Gorgeous!!!
What a fantastic place - the hikes, walks, views = all amazing!
The combination of chaparral, ocean, and wind-shaped sandstone is breathtaking.
You can even easily avoid the $8 parking/entrance fee by parking across the 101 in the more residential section - it's really not that long of a walk.
For the most part, the hikes are not bad at all = very easy level. You can get blown away, though, by being out there, and will want to spend a lot of time out, so bringing water and/or a snack is always a good idea. Simple tennis shoes are just fine. You can even take a trail from the top down to the beach, and walk back that way - fantastic!
I hope you get to enjoy this special part of San Diego soon :-)
I remember my first time here. I was in college and we had a field trip(haha) here for a biology class. The place was breathtakingly beautiful. Everything was in bloom. There were so many colors you would think you're high. I've actually designated this place as the place I am going to propose when the time comes.
I've been back several times now but I can't seem to come during a time when everything is in bloom. I need to find out when it is. There are several trails here you can take. All of them are relatively easy. I think all of them will lead you to the cliff so you can look out at the shore and down onto the beach.
I recommend that you park along side the beach since it's free. Then walk along to the beach until you get to a big flat rock sticking out of the shore. You can climb onto the rock as well. It's very unique. Near this rock are stairs that lead upto the cliffs and hiking trails. Take the steps, climb up until you reach a T-fork. Take the left path as that will lead you to the cliffs overlooking the shore and beach. The trail to the right leads you to the main road at the top but it's a long climb up. These paths are a bit tougher since you're climbing up to the cliffs. But if my fat, overweight ass can do it anyone can. If you just want a simple stroll, all the other trails that doesn't lead to the beach below are easy.
I'll give this place 5 stars when I can find out when the place blooms!
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What a beautiful place! The hubby and I spent a few hours here today walking around up on the cliffs and on the beach. The trails are well maintained and well marked, with good information about the plants and animals along the way. And the scenery is just beautiful - ocean vistas, layers of stone in the cliffs, blue water, and of course those Torrey Pines.
Food & drink (other than water) aren't allowed up in the reserve area along the cliffs but we ate our picnic lunch down at the beach. It was a bit windy so we had to work to keep hold of our stuff, but the scenery was worth it.
Here are some facts. See if you can follow me:
- There are only two coasts in the U.S.: east & west
- Each coast stretches over 1k miles
- Out of those miles also comes hundreds of beaches
- CA alone accounts for 118 beaches
- Of those 118 beaches, I've been to about 10%
- Torry Pines State Reserve happens to have a beach, and happens to be one of the two places that have coastal hiking
- Of the two, this is the only one where you can find a spot that peers out into the shoreline and horizon on the west, and then turn around to look inland on the east and find landmarks.
- Wait! There's more. Out of the two, this is also the only place where there is a souvenir-ish + mini museum-like establishment along the cliff.
Oh, and if you're wondering ... people get married here too.
Yes, the view is breathtaking, the bees are buzzing, the flowers are blooming, and you should feel your heart pounding after reading this review. Yes, yes, and yes.
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11/23/2008
This place is ROBERT APPROVED. **Please look out for the ROBERT APPROVED signature in my reviews**… Read more »
This place is the best!
I agree with other reviews, definitely park on the street. I like to walk on the beach, when you come to the "end" there are concrete steps on the left to go up. From there you can hit a couple different trails depending on where you want to end up.
It's hard to explain without a park map, but one way will lead you south towards the golf course (longer hike). The other you can take northeast toward the park entrance. Then it's just a stroll back down the hill towards the beach and street parking.
Either way you have amazing scenic points to stop and appreciate the view.
* For first timers if you're taking the beach route - check out the tide schedule to make sure it's not high tide, and definitely grab a map from the guard shack in the small parking lot.
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I visited here for the first time after I decided to move to San Diego from Florida. I was in the midst of condo-hunting, and took a day off from my search on a warm August day to explore the State Reserve. Absolutely loved it. Easy hiking, great views, extremely nice staff.
Keeping it short and sweet, but hike up or hike down...when you're through, enjoy some time on the beach. Take out of town guests here, and enjoy just another treasure San Diego has to offer.
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Torrey Pines State Reserve is probably the crown jewel of San Diego. I say San Diego because the "Welcome to San Diego" sign is at Via De La Valle in Del Mar and since this place is south of there, I'm saying San Diego. If you don't like that, find a lawyer in Del Mar to sue me!
Every man, woman and child (no dogs, sadly) should visit this place if you come to San Diego County. If you're an out-of-towner, then I'm sure that Chula Vista and The Cock Pit in Hillcrest are your two top destination choices. Well, before you leave the area, you gotta make sure you come here! Since there's so much to see and do, I'm going to let you in on what to expect when you come to this beautiful place.
If you decide to park in one of the lots, don't expect them to waive the fee if you try to dazzle them with your humor. Telling them that you're only here to deliver a box of wine to Tiger Woods will not get you very far. If possible, park in one of the many spots facing the ocean. Once you make your way up "the hill" to the very top, you'll have some spectacular views (http://www.yelp.com/bi...). Overlooking the ocean (http://www.yelp.com/bi...), you may or may not be able to admire the boating skills of those who are attempting to smuggle drugs and/or illegal aliens (I mean, undocumented immigrants) into the country. If you keep your eyes peeled, you'll be able to see some small rodents scurrying about (and no, I'm not referring to members of the California State Legislature). I also saw a little squirrel (http://www.yelp.com/bi...) on his hind legs chewing on what may or may not have been an opium plant. Lots of trails to explore, some of which that may or may not lead right into some quicksand or a den filled with frisky Bigfoots. Once you've decided that you've had enough trails and breath-taking views, it's time to head down to the beach. Once you hit the sand (http://www.yelp.com/bi...), you'll notice that this may or may not be a nude beach specifically for those over 65 (and missing a limb). Take those clogs off because it's time to get those hairy feet of yours wet! Walk along the beach in the cool ocean water which may or may not produce a staph infection later on in the day. As you continue on the beach, notice the whale (http://www.yelp.com/bi...) that may or may not have been used for target practice earlier on in the day. The skittish Sandpipers (http://www.yelp.com/bi...) are out in full-force searching for things in the sand which may or may not include condoms, football players and hypodermic needles.
Finally, before you head to your car, notice the smiling, happy children making sand castles, throwing frisbees and flying kites (http://www.yelp.com/bi...). These spoiled, snot-nosed little s.o.b.'s will probably have more money by the time they're 20 than you can ever dream of having.
It's places like Torrey Pines State Reserve that make me proud to live in San Diego.
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Such a beautiful place! $8 for parking down below and then hike up. Our 6 year old daughter was fine with all the walking. Small museum at the top---no snacks or drinks, so bring your own.
If you want to get away from it all--don't come here during vacation times--it gets crowded. But everywhere around San Diego is crowded during holidays and such. You may find yourself surrounded by OC mom's talking about the best malls and the new colors they chose for the curtains in their library.
But gorgeous location and a must see for all :)
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Ok, I really like this park, and when trying to find a local park I actually found this website, so a double bonus for me.
So, other reviewers are correct in that it is by no means strenuous hiking, but if you turn the trails into a kind of trail-running course you can get a great workout in the most beautiful setting you could hope for, especially ending a run by hopping into the ocean.
HOWEVER!!!!!!!!! I stepped on a rattlesnake while running on Monday. I do not have a clue why I was not bit. I was running down a narrow trail that was turning right and left and I didn't see the slippery little snerk until I was already in the air. I landed on his tail much to the surprise of both of us. I grew up on a ranch in central Texas and this has instilled a permanent fear of poisonous snakes, so this was a bit terrifying. So my advice to all: do your running in the more open areas and walk when you can't see too far ahead of you. Oh, and the cute little rattlesnake warning signs posted around are not just for campy entertainment, they mean business apparently.
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Obviously Torrey Pines State Reserve doesn't NEED another 5 star review, but since I enjoy the hiking trails so much and so frequently, I feel they deserve yet another 5 star review from me.
I love being able to drive a few blocks, park, and enter this well-preserved piece of nature. The wild rabbits hopping by so freely bring a smile to my face. Knowing there are rattlesnakes hiding nearby brings excitement to my hikes. Being one with nature for a few hours on a typical day is so rejuvenating. I feel ever so fortunate to live so close to something so beautiful.
I run these trails often because they are challenging, yet manageable. I always get a good workout in, but never feel like it's too hardcore. There are breathtaking views of the cliffs and the ocean once you near the mid-lower part of the trails. I love running down to the ocean, along the beach, then back up. I feel incredibly safe running these trails, which says a lot because I'm a big-time paranoid chicken. Even though there are quite a few trails that connect, you won't get lost, but you won't get bored either. Mix it up and run different trails - there's more to see than you could in just one visit.
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Overall experience was awesome! Difficulty from a scale of 1 to 10 is a 3. Perfect for taking your Mom out for a walk. When you're done, you can hangout at the beach to top everything off.
I paid the $8 and parked at the bottom. There are restrooms and wash sinks at the bottom for you to get ready. You really don't need to take much with you. A water bottle, my iPod, and a powerbar was all I needed for 2.0 hours.
I suggest powerwalking up the first hill, since it's the only hard part. After the first hill, the rest of your time will be spend cruising. I ended up doing the Guy Fleming Trail and the Parry Grove Trail. The trails loop you back to the main road, so don't worry about getting lost. The Guy Fleming Trail was definitely the most scenic and had a lot of places to sit and take it all in. I highly recommend skipping all the way back down to your car. It's all down hill and very easy which makes it so fun!
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This place is incredible.
Just moved to CA with a San Diego native, and this is her favorite beach. I totally second that vote. She's taken me to a handful and I just keep wanting more of Torrey Pines.
If you aren't able to get parking along the street, which is very possible, parking is 8 bucks, cash only. There's an ATM down the street if you forget.
Park and hike to the top. Then hike down to the beach. The trails are breathtaking. Hiking up definitely got my breathing going, but I'm a little out of shape. Ok, more than a little. But it is SO worth the pain to get to the beach trails. Unbelievable.
It can be really crowded here, but the people seem pretty chill. If you like a quieter spot, keep walking up the beach towards the cliffs (if you didn't climb down them).
I'm from the east coast, and am sooooo impressed by the beauty of the beaches here. Take the time to really check this one out if you haven't already.
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I'm so lucky to work right next to TPSR. When I want a nice break from work, I run to the reserve via the Torrey Pines Rd entrance on the west side of the street which is pedestrian and bikes only. Most of the time, I turn back around once I've reached the bathrooms. However, a few times I get captivated by the gorgeous view (sometimes dolphins playing in the distance) and continue running until I've reach the bottom. Then reality hits me as I run UP the trail cursing myself back to work.
As mentioned above, the pedestrian/bike only entrance is very nice to avoid cars on Torrey Pines Rd. For the cyclists out there, you all LOVE the hill. If you want an easier, longer ride, take the road, but if you want a painful but shorter ride, take the park road.
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Lots of sand real estate to play in. No neighbor to crowd into your "spot" on the beach. Enough room to run around, without some jock knocking you over, when he's playing his game of football. Better yet - LESS TOURISTS!!
I gotta show some love to Torrey Pines State Beach.
You can park at the the State Beach lot for $8. I suggest cash, since the last time I went, their credit card machine was broken. Or, you can drive around and look for free parking, along the shoreline. There is overflow parking across the road, as well.
Beautiful ocean. Clean sand. Tons of room. Great people watching. A lack of surfers, who could potentially run you over with their boards, like at those other beaches. And, yes, the occassional guy in the speedo. But, you can't really avoid those.
My favorite beach to chill out at, with friends, in sunny Daygo.
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