Torrey Pines State Beach

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Torrey Pines State Beach is located just at the bottom of the bluffs as you are driving north from La Jolla along N Torrey Pines Rd. There is limited free parking along the side of the road on the beach side and there is also a large paid lots on both the east & west sides of the road.
Want to head to the beach while in San Diego? Torrey Pines State Beach is a beautiful and enjoyable place to swim, surf, hike and take in the sights.
Todd Sarouhan
Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you make purchases through them, I may be compensated at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
Why you'll love this beach
Why you'll love this beach
Take in the View, Take on a Wave and Take Home a Memory
Torrey Pines State Beach
Overview
Things to Do
Save on Gear
Popular Activities
Get There & Parking
Featured Activity
Know Before You Go
Stay Nearby
Similar Beaches

Highlights

Things to Do
Tips
How to get there
Parking
Things to Do
Tips
How to get there
Parking

Overview

Surfer Catching a Wave at North Torrey PinesWhite Water and Beach at North Torrey Pines

Along the San Diego coast just south of Del Mar lies Torrey Pines State Beach. Whether you want to get in the water or sunbathe on the sand, this is a wonderful beach to spend a day relaxing and having fun.

The beach is at the northwest end of Torrey Pines State Reserve. This park provides some incredible views for beachgoers as they head along the coastal road to reach the beach. Cliffs in the park loom above the beach, creating an attractive, natural background.

Additionally, the park is home to the Torrey Pines Gliderport. Visitors on the beach will regularly see hang gliders soaring high above the beach on the coastal winds.

There is a north and south section of the beach divided by a coastal estuary. The lifeguards will designate one part of the beach for surfing and another for swimming and other activities. This division is usually at the estuary but may move day-to-day depending on the size of the crowds.

Overall, this is a perfect representation of Southern California beaches. If you are visiting San Diego and want to spend some time relaxing on the sand, Torrey Pines State Beach should be at the top of your list.

Things to Do

Running
Running
Sunbathing
Sunbathing
Surfing
Surfing

Why Visitors and Locals Love Torrey Pines State Beach

Torrey Pines State Beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists visiting the area. It is most notable for its reliable surf and enjoyable swimming spots.

Catching Some Waves

The surf off of this beach is moderately powerful with consistent waves. The waves come in over a smooth, sandy seabed and break left and right on the beach. So, while it is a fun place to surf, don’t expect to catch any huge swells or particularly challenging rides.

Despite the relatively unchallenging surf at Torrey Pines State Beach, even experienced surfers enjoy the spot because rides can be 150 feet to almost 500 feet. Any time you head to the area, you can be confident in catching at least a few good waves. The waves tend to be best earlier in the morning.

North Torrey Pines, the section typically reserved for surfing, sees light surfing crowds during the week and heavy crowds on the weekends. The southern section has much lighter crowds but may also have swimmers. Anyone visiting on vacation may do well to head out surfing in the early morning on a weekday.

Taking a Dip

The beach is also a popular area for swimming. The southern section of the beach is typically reserved for swimmers, bodyboarders and other non-surfers.

In addition to the ocean proper, many people enjoy swimming in Los Peñasquitos Lagoon, a coastal marsh just off the beach. This estuary separates the north and south sections of Torrey Pines State Beach. It offers several swimming spots that are protected from the stronger tides and waves of the ocean.

Swimming in the ocean at Torrey Pines State Beach is best reserved for strong swimmers due to the surf. However, families with children or weaker swimmers can still enjoy themselves if the tide is in, filling the estuary. There are lifeguards stationed along the beach in towers during peak times.

Local Tips
Did you know?
Torrey Pines State Beach is not only a beach but also a State Natural Reserve. Take a break from the sand & surf and hike around the bluffs above and take in the natural beauty of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.

Enjoying the Sunset

San Diego’s beaches are well-known for the beautiful views they offer of the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean. Torrey Pines State Beach is no different and is aided by the cliffs just behind the beach.

Stay Nearby

The luxurious Lodge at Torrey Pines is a great place to stay while you are visiting San Diego and Torrey Pines specifically. Overlooking a world-renowned golf course of Torrey Pines and the gorgeous Torrey Pines State Reserve.

Consider making your stay even more memorable by booking a room at the nearby Fairmont Grand Del Mar. With its upscale amenities, stunning surroundings, and impeccable service, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar offers an exceptional retreat just minutes away from this captivating beach.

Whether you want to relax on the sand or hike up to the top of the cliffs, you will see some of the most stunning views imaginable from Torrey Pines. These views alone are well worth a visit to the beach.

5-star luxury awaits at The Lodge at Torrey Pines. Tour its many accommodations with Todd, including upscale spa treatments, fine dining, and access to Torrey Pines Golf Course with golf packages.

Stay at the The Lodge at Torrey Pines

Go Surfing with Go Pass!

La Jolla - Surf Board Rental
La Jolla - Surf Board Rental
La Jolla is home to some of the world's best beaches for surfing, and with your Go Pass, you can enjoy this experience. Whether you are a rookie or a pro, get a full day Surf Board rental. The waters are perfect for those learning.
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Local Tips
What activities does the Go City San Diego pass include?

There’s a variety of activities included with the Go City San Diego pass such as: The San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, LEGOLAND, SeaWorld, Hiking Tours, Whale Watching, Museum Tours, Speed Boat Adventures & more!

For the most popular attractions and water-sport rentals as well as the biggest discounts, consider the All-Inclusive Pass.

Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to save an extra 5%!

How to Get There & Parking

Free Parking
Free Parking
Lot Parking
Lot Parking
Neighborhood Parking
Neighborhood Parking
Street Parking
Street Parking

Torrey Pines State Beach is located a short distance west of Interstate 5. Exit on Carmel Valley Road and head west to Torrey Pines Road (also referred to as Pacific Coast Highway). Follow that south to the beach.

If you are coming south from Del Mar, simply follow Torrey Pines Road south along the coast. From La Jolla, follow the same road north through Torrey Pines State Reserve. There are four parking options near the beach:

  • Roadside parking on the southbound shoulder of Torrey Pines Road
  • A large lot at the north side of the beach between Carmel Valley Road and Torrey Pines Road
  • A smaller lot inside the park by the southern tip of the beach ($10 to enter the park per vehicle)
  • A lot near the headquarters of the Torrey Pines State Reserve ($10 to enter the park per vehicle)

Featured Activity

San Diego Harbor Cruise on San Diego Bay at Sunset
San Diego Harbor Cruise
Enjoy this ‘San Diego Top Pick Award’ winner as you set sail on a three level luxury ship providing 360-degree views of San Diego’s scenic beauty. Relax for a 1-2 hour narrated tour, learn about the city from the bay.
Buy Now

Know Before You Go & Tips

Lifeguards
Lifeguards
No Alcohol
No Alcohol
No Camping
No Camping
No Dogs
No Dogs
No Glass Containers
No Glass Containers
No Motorized Vehicles
No Motorized Vehicles
No Smoking
No Smoking
No Trash Cans
No Trash Cans
Outdoor Showers
Outdoor Showers
Public Transportation
Public Transportation
Restrooms
Restrooms
Shade
Shade
Trash Cans Available
Trash Cans Available

Tips for Making Your Visit as Memorable as Possible

Bring Sun Protection

The beach has very little natural shade. Make sure to bring appropriate sun protection. A sun umbrella or similar canopy is strongly recommended.

Lifeguard on Duty

The beach is served by a lifeguard staff year-round. The headquarters is at the northern tip of the beach. Additionally, there are towers along the beach, although their coverage isn’t perfect.

Respect Wildlife

Torrey Pines State Reserve is home to a lot of natural flora and fauna. Some animals can be dangerous, especially if provoked or startled. Use caution when walking in the area and stick to designated trails.

Facilities

There are bathrooms and showers located at the north end of the beach near the lagoon. You can find additional facilities at the Torrey Pines State Reserve headquarters and entrance.

Torrey Pines State Beach
is Known For:
Swimming
Swimming
Know This:
Lifeguards
Lifeguards
Outdoor Showers
Outdoor Showers
Restrooms Available
Restrooms Available
Trash Cans Available
Trash Cans Available
This Month's Forecast
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Sunny in November
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51°F / 68°F
Sunny in December
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51°F / 67°F
Sunny in January

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