Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: A Coastal Wilderness
Explore a coastal wilderness in San Diego: hiking trails, rare pines, stunning ocean views, and a pristine beach at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a 2,000-acre coastal park in San Diego, California, protecting the rare Torrey pine tree and offering stunning ocean views from atop sandstone cliffs. With miles of trails, a lagoon vital to migratory seabirds, and access to Torrey Pines State Beach, it's a haven for hikers, nature lovers, and beachgoers.
A brief summary to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
- 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, La Jolla, California, 92037, US
- +1858-755-2063
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-5 pm
- Thursday 7 am-5 pm
- Friday 7 am-5 pm
- Saturday 7 am-5 pm
- Sunday 7 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as parking lots fill up quickly.
- Bring water and sunscreen, as the trails offer limited shade.
- Check the tide schedule if you plan to visit the beach or explore tide pools.
- Stay on marked trails to protect the fragile environment and avoid rattlesnakes.
- Consider taking public transportation to avoid parking fees and congestion.
Getting There
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Driving
From Interstate 5, exit onto Carmel Valley Road heading west. Continue for about 1.5 miles until you reach North Torrey Pines Road (Highway 101) and turn left. Drive south for approximately one mile along the coast; the park entrance will be on your right. Be prepared for a parking fee ranging from $15 to $25, depending on the day. Parking is available at the South Beach lot and further up the hill near the Visitor Center. Note that the South Beach lot often fills up, especially during peak season. If the South Beach lot is full, a flashing light will indicate that you should proceed to the North Beach parking lot.
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Public Transport
Take the North County Transit Bus 101, which stops near the entrance to Torrey Pines State Beach. If you're heading to the upper reserve, exit the bus at the National University stop and walk south into the park from the Reserve's South Entrance. The bus fare is approximately $2.50 for a one-way trip. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the beach or the park's entrance.
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Ride-Sharing
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off near the park entrance. Arrange to be dropped off at the bus stop just outside the park gate, as ride-sharing vehicles are generally not permitted inside without paying the entrance fee. From the drop-off point, it's a short walk to the beach or the park's hiking trails.
Discover more about Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pacific Coast Hwy (US 101)
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Salk Institute for Biological Studies
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Sun God
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Epstein Family Amphitheater
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La Jolla Project
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New Scripps/Administration Building
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Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla
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La Jolla Shores Beach
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Tombstones memorials
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Boomer Beach
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Ellen Browning Scripps Park
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Unmissable attractions to see
Torrey Pines South Beach
0.1 km
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North Overlook
0.2 km
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Torrey Pines State Beach
0.4 km
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Red Butte
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Flat Rock
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Sunset Seat
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Torrey Pines Golf Course: Driving Range
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Torrey Pines Golf Course
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Del Mar
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Powerhouse Park
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Torrey Pines Gliderport
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La Jolla Trail
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La Jolla Canyon
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Geisel Library
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Torrey Pines City Beach
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Essential places to dine
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A.R. Valentien
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Humphreys La Jolla Grill
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Urban Plates
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Seasons 52
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Shores Restaurant
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Shore Rider Bar
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Piatti
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Shorehouse Kitchen
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Osteria Romantica
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Sandpiper Wood Fired Grill & Oysters
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The Marine Room
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Sea & Sky
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Birch Aquarium Gift Shop
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The Shops at La Jolla Village
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La Jolla Village Square
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Sea Hive La Jolla
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Ocean Girl-Surf Boutique
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GK Fashion House
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Mila Boutique
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Blue Apparel
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The International Shops
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KnB Bistro
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The Silver Fox Lounge
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