Added by Grant Nyquist
Torrey Pines is one of the most scenic and iconic spots to day hike in San Diego. Ocean views, access to the beach and a killer hill all included. With different lengths of hikes, you can make this is easy or hard as you want.
The beach trail brings you from the parking lot across the lodge from the bluff down to the beach. You can choose to visit the Red Butte, the Razor Point, and the Yucca Point trails along the way. Of the other trails, this trail seems to provide a complete walkthrough of geological features; it also provides a gradual descent down to the beach suitable for children.
Warning: do not walk too close to the cliff -- rock and sand fall is possible due to wind and water erosion. This terrain is unshaded from sun and unshielded from wind.
The Flora and fauna here are great for photography and binoculars may help while looking for dolphins from the Razor or Yucca Points.
For a longer loop, you have the option to return via the broken hill trail to either the north fork or the south fork trail and then a paved road, adding around 2 miles to the trip. You can also walk along the beach to get back to the park entrance.
The Natural Reserve is open from 7:15 am until sunset. Check the parks.ca.gov website for more info.
Pack List
- Hiking shoes
- Water
- Sun block
- Hat/ sunglasses (especially on the sunnier/ warmer days)
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Activities:
Photography, Hiking, Fitness
Skill Level:
Beginner
Season:
Year Round
Trail Type:
Loop
Distance:
5.5 Miles
Elev. Gain:
300 Feet
Rating:
Features:
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Reviews
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29 days ago
Go Early
Easy and pretty trail system. Go early to avoid crowds of tourists as well as the hassle of parking.
Great Family Spot
Easy hikes with fantastic ocean views the whole way. There is an entrance fee if you want to park at the trail heads which I recommend if you have little ones or seniors. Otherwise you have to walk up a hill for about a mile. There is a ranger station with a gift shop and restrooms.
7 months ago
Go For The View Then Get A Sando
Hitting up board and brew for a sandwich after Torrey pines is the best. So is the ocean after a hike. Hike, beach, grub :)
8 months ago
Amazing
Parking fee is $15 but you have in/out privileges which I think is nice thing to have. There is parking at the beach and at the top of the park. The free parking is limited and I think there is a time limit of three hours. its a steep walk to the top. My suggestion if you don't hike a lot, park at the top and save your energy for the hikes within the park. Great views. Do not miss the hike down to the beach.
Highlight of The Weekend
When visiting San Diego for a long weekend Torrey Pines was on the to do list. The winding trails and cliffs that bring you to oceans edge are beautiful. A spot and hike worth making the time for!
about 1 year ago
A Great Place To Spend The Morning
I'd recommend heading out there early in the morning. That way you can avoid lying for parking and snag a free space at the waterfront. The park was fantastic. So many different views, all equally as breathtaking. Taking the beach stairs was a blast, it's a never ending treasure trove of adventure. Check this out!!
over 1 year ago
Easier Part Of SD
This is a beautiful hike! No doubt about that, it is also one of the more easier hikes in San Diego! I'd rate it a 5 out of 10 difficulty. And I'm not a Avid hiker. Just your average joe! I won't even say bring a camera it's the 21st century everyone's got there phones!
A wonderful hike with awesome views
Cliffs, beach access, ocean vistas, and unordinary landscapes make for some great photography. Bring a camera because Torrey Pines is gorgeous.
over 1 year ago
Scenic place to get some cardio in!
There are plenty of trails and some good uphill grades. If you are looking to burn a few pounds and take in some beautiful views--this place is it!
over 1 year ago
Even better at sunset
For the best hike, I'd recommend starting from the top and heading down to the beach from the north side of the loop, then returning from the south side of the loop. One of my favorite hikes in the San Diego area. Seriously amazing during golden hour.
over 2 years ago
Lovely little jaunt. Peace among the southern California hustle and bustle.
about 3 years ago
Very moderate to easy hike to get beautiful views. Parking can be a hassle on the weekends if you don't want to pay to park in the lot. I always recommend this hike to friends that aren't avid hikers and want to do something as a date night. The sunsets from the top of the hill are beautiful. Trail: well maintained, depending on where you are it's either concrete, dirt or sand.
about 3 years ago
Guy Flemming trail is easy and has great views, but it is just a teaser compared to Razor Point and Yucca Point.
about 3 years ago
Tips: Reserve hours: 7am-sunset. No dogs/horses/bicycles/picnics on trail.
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