• Be the first to Review

Expert Review of Torrey Pines State Reserve

• 

Parks and Outdoors Review of Torrey Pines State Reserve

Away Travel Expert: Ann Marie Brown

Parks Expert Favorite
ParksExpert Rating Recommended for:
Birding,Whale Watching

Parks and OutdoorsExpert Tips & Helpful Hints

• Torrey Pines State Reserve is a great destination for visitors seeking short, easy trails with big payoffs. The reserve sits on a hill above the Pacific on 2,000 acres of land encompassing a large stand of rare Torrey pine trees, eroded ravines that cut sharply through the coastal bluffs, and a coastal lagoon filled with migrating seabirds. It's one of San Diego's best places to gaze at the sea.
• The Guy Fleming Loop Trail makes a good introduction to the park, especially when the wildflowers bloom in spring. The path offers wide views of the coast, Del Mar, and La Jolla, and passes through the reserve's Torrey pines. Two overlook points (North and South) provide Pacific vistas that are hard to tear yourself away from. The South Overlook is a popular spot for weddings.
• A 2.5-mile loop on Razor Point Trail and Beach Trail leads you through the reserve's eroded coastal badlands, past wind-sculpted Torrey pines and colorful spring wildflowers, and through a narrow sandstone tunnel to the beach. Once on the sand, you can walk as far as you please, provided the tide is out.