Torrey Pines FAQ
Quick answers about Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, the coastal reserve between La Jolla and Del Mar that California State Parks runs to protect the rare Torrey pine. The short version for 2026: the reserve is closed until about March 1, 2027, but the state beach and its parking lots are open.
Visiting
Each answer below links to the page with the full details and sources. Start with the closure page if you are visiting before March 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Torrey Pines open?
The reserve is closed to all visitors from September 22, 2026, until about March 1, 2027, for a State Parks utility project. Torrey Pines State Beach, its two lots and the Extension trails are open.
How much does it cost to park at Torrey Pines?
$15 to $25 per vehicle at the South Beach lot and $10 to $25 at North Beach. State Parks says weekdays are usually $15 and weekends and holidays $25.
What are Torrey Pines' hours?
Gates open at 7:15 a.m. and close at sunset, about 7:30 to 8 p.m. in summer and 5 p.m. in fall and winter.
Is Torrey Pines free?
No for cars: both State Parks lots charge a day-use fee. The Reserve Extension in Del Mar has free street parking.
Are dogs allowed at Torrey Pines?
No, not in the reserve or on the state beach, even inside a car. Working service dogs are allowed.
Can you bring food to Torrey Pines?
Only on the beach and in the parking lots. Only water is allowed in the reserve above the beach.
What is the best hike at Torrey Pines?
The Beach Trail down to Flat Rock and back along the sand at low tide. The easiest is the 2/3-mile Guy Fleming loop.
How long is the Torrey Pines hike?
The trails are short: the Beach Trail is ¾ mile and the longest, Broken Hill, is about 1.4 miles one way.
Can you walk to the beach from Torrey Pines?
Yes, by the Beach Trail or Broken Hill Trail to Flat Rock, when the reserve is open. The beach is impassable two to three hours either side of high tide.
Is Torrey Pines a national park?
No. It is a California state natural reserve, one of only 14 in the state park system.
Can you swim at Torrey Pines?
Yes, at Torrey Pines State Beach. Check with a lifeguard, watch for rip currents and shuffle your feet for stingrays.
Where is Black's Beach?
South of the reserve, below 300-foot cliffs and the Torrey Pines Gliderport. The City of San Diego says the safest way in is along the sand from the north or south.
Is the Torrey Pines Gliderport part of the reserve?
No. It is a City of San Diego park at 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive, south of the reserve.
Where do Torrey pine trees grow?
Naturally only on the Torrey Pines coast in San Diego and on Santa Rosa Island.
Can you fly a drone at Torrey Pines?
No. Drones are banned in the reserve and on the beach.
Can you camp at Torrey Pines?
No. Camping is not allowed anywhere at Torrey Pines.