Hike to Black's Beach via the Gliderport
Details
Distance
2 miles
Elevation Gain
350 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Added by Aran Eversman
In the early morning hours, the world is your oyster. Soak up the tranquility of this secluded paradise before sunrise and experience one of Southern California's most rare and sought-after states: peace and quiet.
Park at the Torrey Pines Gliderport, which is conveniently empty before sunrise. The hike down to Black's Beach features a steep hike down a winding path of natural and manmade steps along the cliff face, but stay left and cruise the bluff for endless opportunities to observe, reflect and explore off the beaten path in the solitude of the predawn hours. When you're ready, take the main trail down or find your own way down to Black's for a 3.5 mile stretch of black sand beaches and killer surf.
It should be noted that this is a clothing-optional beach and cameras might be greeted with mixed reactions if there are people looking to take advantage of this beach's (lack of) swimwear policy!
Black's Beach is part of the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and is the Southern end of some of the most beautiful and pristine views of the Southern California coast - use it as a starting point for a killer day hike!
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Reviews
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Awesome
The trail down is definitely steep, and very fun to hike. Not to mention the beach is beautiful with awesome waves! Prepare to see nudists...
5.0
Steep, But Not Bad
The walk down to the beach is a ton of winding steps, but they can be pretty uneven. The walk back up can be exhausting though
5.0
Best Nude Beach
Best nude beach period. The beach is huge so there's lots of places to post up without being too close to other nude patrons. The hike down is kinda long and even longer coming up. Make sure to bring water! No easy/quick way to get back to your car.
5.0
Sunset Destination
Excellent place to go for sunset or just for hiking around and heading down to the beach to catch some sun or head in the surf. You can take the main trail down or there is a small "goat" trail that goes down along side of it that adds a little more challenge. Only reason it isn't five stars is the occasional naked old guy strolling on the beach.
4.0
A More Challenging Way Down
Besides possibly seeing a naked person or two, this is a great way down to Blacks. With a clearly defined trail, big steps and a great view, plus ample parking. This is a great local workout.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
Nearby Adventures
Visit Torrey Pines Gliderport
Hike to Black's Beach via the Ho Chi Minh Trail
Surfing at Black's Beach via the Main Gate
Swing on the La Jolla Tree Swings
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