Torrey Pines State Reserve

12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA

Address:	12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
Phone:	+1 858-755-2063
Site:	torreypine.org
Rating:	4.8
Working:	9AM–6PM 9AM–6PM 9AM–6PM 9AM–6PM 9AM–6PM 9AM–6PM 9AM–6PM

Location

Photos 100

Reviews 7

Vicki Campbell

There is something magical in the air at Torrey Pines State reserve, one of San Diegos greatest treasures. The rarest pine tree in North America, the Torrey Pine, makes its home on the 2000 acre park on the north end of San Diego proper on this protected land. My 444th review will highlight some of the many ways to enjoy the reserve. History buffs will enjoy walking on the original highway 101 and checking out the small, free museum/visitors center. This historic adobe building used to be a popular restaurant pit stop for travelers. There are 8 miles of easy to moderate walking paths on the reserve and they all have breathtaking ocean views and native vegetation. One of my favorite trails, Guy Fleming trail, is a short loop that can be completed in about 15 minutes and there are several lookout points with the best views at the reserve. I love it so much that this is where I had my wedding photos taken. Another trail takes you to the beach with its final destination of Bathtub Rock, a flat rock with a hole shaped like a bathtub and this is a big attraction for tourists and kids. In addition to the rich history, endangered flora and hiking trails, Torrey Pines Reserve also has a sandy beach with restrooms and a parking lot. It is easily accessible and convenient for family outings with activities for everyone. I love to hike Torrey Pines every chance I get, just make sure to eat before you go as food is not allowed on the reserve. Happy hiking!

Lindsay S.

Torrey Pines State Park is arguably one of the most beautiful natural areas existing in San Diego, and it is accessible by almost everyone. If youre a hiker, the hike up the hill and back down to the ocean is not only breathtaking, but also a nice cardiovascular workout. This hike usually takes me about on hour to an hour and a half (depending on how adventurous I want to be...there are some side trails for your exploring along the way). If you arent a hiker, you can pay the day use fee to drive up the hill. There are usually park rangers, etc. at the top of the hill with info and maps. Parking can be a bit tricky if you arent planning on paying the fee for the lot, as the parking is shared with the beach. Leave time for parking issues (heightened in the summertime, of course). My only other tip: Be sure you know when high tide will be if you are planning to hike the full circle and come back along the ocean/beach. You can find tide info by googling a search term like: "Todays high tide San Diego." Aloha!

Steve Brooks

I love the trails, the cliffs, the trees, and of course the beach. We were there last Saturday and the weather was perfect. We arrived early and easily found a spot in the lot. The Rangers open the booth later and there are signs warning of a hefty fine if you dont buy a ticket. ($12 during the week, $15 on the weekend). I didnt mind having to pay for a spot close to the beach so we could carry our picnic stuff BUT...the kiosk is RIDICULOUS! The screen is faintly lit and appears to not work but some determined people used a hat to shade the screen, got on their knees, and squinted patiently to step through the process. It took about 10 minutes per person and soon there was a line of 15 or more people! That really cut into what was otherwise a perfect visit. The ranger in the booth later was a pleasure to talk to when I went to her toll booth. She managed the traffic well and was very calm but efficient. I hope the Kiosk can somehow be improved!

Oh Sonia

The park is very nice. I was coming to the park like 3xs a week and would see the no dogs allowed signs but always see some people with there big dogs. I decided to bring my dog, but my younger sister was carrying the puppy. This Forrest Secuirty guy came up to my little sister and litterally yelled at her face because she was standing behind me, claiming she was "hiding" from him. He yelled at her fave saying "I HATE PEOPLE WHO HIDE FROM ME DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM IM A SANDIEGO POILCE OFFICER!!!! , DO YOU UNDERSTANG ENGLISH!" (Because were hispanics and my young sister is to small and does know english but was to afraid to talk back) Then he was like "Hola?" And excuse me but I think the "police officer" *cough* Forrest Ranger couldve been more polite and asked a 9 YEAR OLD that dogs are not allowed. Yes we shouldve not brought a dog. But the way he talked to my younger sister was very rude.

Zoe Freedman

Hands down one of my favorite places in San Diego. This is great for a mini-workout, unless you hike for hours it isnt a great workout because theres really only one hill and after that its smooth sailing. It has gorgeous views everywhere! Stunning! Go, and bring a camera! There are numerous trails, the best one being the "beach trail" because it is a great loop that eventually brings you down to the beach and you can walk along the beach back to your car! Parking is a nightmare, theres only one long strip of free parking and its a blood bath to get a spot usually. You can pay for the lot, but its around $10. Might be worth it if you dont want to spend a while doing circles waiting for a spot, but I usually am persistant and get one of the free spots. Anyway if youre a local, or a visitor, dont skip Torrey Pines, its amazing and you wont be disappointed.

Terra Nangle

Torrey pines Reserve offers a great day hike which only takes 2-3 hours, depending on how long you visit at the beach. Great for a weekend day date with your new OKC match as this hike is simple and lets you have a conversation on the way and coming back. Bring the kids, family friendly with fun nature information available at the front brought to you by the staff available to answer any questions you might have. The only real issue can be parking. Free breach parking can be limited, especially on the weekends and holidays. State reserve parking is $15/day on the weekends which seems a little expensive given the length of the hike. If youre on a budget, try parking in the local neighborhood and take a walk in, this can add distance to your hike for additional exercise. Enjoy the warm weather with a beautiful coastal view at Torrey pines.

calvin showley

I was harassed by a Park Ranger for walking on a trail that I have used for over 10 years. A State Park Ranger told a friend and I we were tresspassing and threatened us with tickets. Forced us to the ground, blantly lied to us, and told us we were banned from the beach for the day. He told us that he saw us walk past a no tresspassing sign. There were no signs in the area execpt a no dog and no off road vehicles signs. The manner in which me and my companion were treated was appalling. I was oblivious to the fact the area was protected and I always respect protected wildlife areas. The ranger has some sort of power issues and is using his badged position to hinder the enjoyment of the park from enthusiastic beach goers. Never have I been treated this way before in my life and hopefully never again.