Torrey Pines State Beach is a four and a half-mile stretch of undisturbed natural shoreline on the coastal edge of Torrey Pines State Natural Preserve. It’s a great place for sunbathing and swimming, but exploring the surrounding wilderness in the preserve is sure to fill the day with plenty of adventures.
Since Torrey Pines takes up an extensive stretch of coastline, it is comprised of two beaches: North Beach, on the northern end, and South Beach, on the southern.
The nearby Los Penasquitos Lagoon is a great place to visit as it invites a wide array of beautiful birds as well as multiple hiking trails that will afford you breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Even a regular old stroll down the sand is elevated at Torrey Pines State Beach because of the rugged cliffs and steep bluffs that line the shores.
Activities
Swimming, sunbathing, surfing, hiking, birdwatching, whale watching, and fishing.
Lifeguards are only staff during summer months, and the water can be rough, so swim at your own risk.
No dogs allowed on the beach.
Amenities
Restrooms, showers, lifeguards, picnic tables, and trails.
There’s a fee to enter the park.
There’s free street parking available near the park.
Nearby Attractions
There is another beach in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, called Flat Rock Beach, that requires a hike through one of the trails, or a simple walk south from Torrey Pines South Beach. There, you’ll find a tremendous sandstone cliff standing behind the unusually flat rock that earned the beach its name. When the tide rolls out far enough, you can climb on the rock and explore the nearby sea caves.
Los Penasquitos Marsh Natural Preserve and Lagoon is right near Torrey Pines State Beach. There are four trails there that you can explore and possibly even spot some of the various forms of wildlife that call the area home.
Fun Facts
Torrey Pines is named for the Pinus torreyana, an extremely rare and critically endangered species of pine tree that only grows in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.
Details
Location: La Jolla, CA 92121 | N. Beach – Carmel Valley Rd & McGonigle Rd | S. Beach – N Torrey Pines Rd
Phone: 858-755-2063
Season: Year-round
Pets: Not allowed
Website: parks.ca.gov…
Swami’s Beach – Encinitas, California