The hot sun beats down as you start the dusty trail that leads to the ocean. Drawing closer to the water, the refreshing ocean breeze cools you down and the spectacular views stop you in your tracks. Time seems to stand still and your cares are washed away among the waves crashing into the seaside cliffs. The quiet and peacefulness around you makes you lose track of where you are, even if only for a minute.
Nestled along San Diego’s beautiful coastline lies the Torrey Pines State Nature Reserve, the largest stretch of wilderness along the coast in Southern California. Just a couple of miles to the west of the 5 Freeway, this 1,500 acre gem sweeps you back to a time before San Diego was developed, when the rare Torrey pine trees looked out on miles of unspoiled beaches. With 8 miles of hiking trails, beaches and a lagoon, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve serves as an oasis for locals and visitors looking to get away for a couple of hours.
Things You Should Know
Where does it take place
12600 N. Torrey Pines Rd
San Diego, CA 92121
Hours
Park opens 7:15am
Park closes Sunset
Prices
Monday - Thursday $10 - $15
Friday - Sunday $12 - $20
Holidays $12 - $20
Annual Pass $195
Things I Wish Someone Would Have Told Me
This is not a park. This is a reserve and it’s a very important area that contains threatened wildlife. California only has 14 state reserves in all and Torrey Pines is one of them. That means the ecosystem here is very fragile, so stick to the paths and follow the rest of the rules.
No food or drink. This one has stipulations. Water is allowed in the reserve (No Alcohol!) and food is allowed on the beach but not the reserve. So keep it in your pack till you get there.
Dogs are not allowed anywhere.
Pack it in, pack it out. Simply put, everything you bring
into the reserve must leave with you. Trash cans and recycling bins are located in the parking lots.
No Smoking.
Groups of more than 25 must obtain a permit.
Drones are not allowed in the reserve or on the beach.
Parking in the summer is tough. Summertime brings big crowds to the beach so all the parking is taken up pretty quickly, especially between the hours of 10am - 1pm. Plan accordingly.
Things You Will Need
Your camera The views here are really amazing. We took a lot of photos.
Water. It’s pretty dry and hot with nothing but the ocean to cool you down, so bring a water bottle but make sure you leave with it!
A towel could come in handy. If you want to have a romantic picnic on the beach, or take a refreshing dip in the ocean, a towel would be quite useful. Even just a small one to wipe your feet off before putting your shoes back on after leaving the beach.
Where is a good place to go in your city?!
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