Mission Beach
Pacific Beach
Mission Bay
La Jolla Beaches
Coronado & South
North County
Del Mar
OB & Sunset Cliffs

Windansea
Marine Street
La Jolla Children’s Pool
La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Shores
Torrey Pines State Beach

Torrey Pines State Beach

home \ site map \ Enlightened Explorer Travel \ about this site

Highlights | Logistics | Getting There | Insider Tips

Highlights

Beautiful sandstone cliffs rise 300 magnificent feet from the Pacific Ocean to greet miles of walking paths along the bluffs at Torrey Pines State Beach. Hiking trails take visitors through the reserve among the Torrey pines (one of the rarest varieties of pine in the world), wildflowers, and other plants and animals with panoramic views of the ocean.

These trails wind down to a 4.5-mile stretch of beach that is uncrowded and ideal for swimming, walking, or picnicking. Be sure to visit the museum and visitor center (built in 1923) on top of the reserve at Torrey Pines.

Logistics

Restrooms are available on top of the reserve and down on the beach. Showers are located at the bottom only. Remember that Torrey Pines is a state park and it is illegal to pick wildflowers or take pinecones; state law protects all natural or historic features. Bicycles and dogs are not allowed on trails.

Back to top

Getting There & Parking

Torrey Pines State Beach is located at North Torrey Pines Road. Take the Carmel Valley Road exit off of I-5 heading north from San Diego. Park for free along 101 to the north and then walk south to the beach. Or pay a small fee and park high above the beach on the cliffs to enjoy the hike down to the sparkling Pacific Ocean.

Insider Tips

The hike from the top of Torrey Pines State Park (starting at the visitor’s center) to the beach below is one of the most rewarding in all of southern California. Bring your bathing suit so you can take a swim!

Torrey Pines State Park and beach offer a glimpse of the natural environment found along the southern California coast. The plant life and ecosystem are incredibly unique and diverse. Take advantage of the wonderful interpretive exhibits found at the visitor’s center. If you hike down the trail from the upper parking lot, your reward will be the least crowded beach anywhere in San Diego County! We give Torrey Pines State Beach our highest recommendation.

Back to top