Torrey Pines North Beach

Torrey Pines North Beach is a magical, cozy beach where families gather to play along the shore. Children build forts decorated with kelp. They also enjoy breaking apart the "sandcakes" where sand has harden into flat pieces.

The beach is a long ribbon of sand, with large rocks behind it. The cliff behind it is short compared to the grand cliffs behind Torrey Pines State Beach. Black minerals streak the sand. The beach is guarded by a lifeguard tower. If the tide is very high, there is sometimes not much sand left to sit on. From the parking lot, there is a sparkling view of the Los Penasquitos Lagoon. Further along the parking lot is a view of the distant hills topped with red rocky outcroppings.
Come in late summer or fall for the best, sunny weather. In spring and early summer there is often fog all morning. 
After, have a bite to eat at the Los Penasquitos Lagoon cafes along Carmel Valley Rd. There is a Bird Rock Coffee here that is a popular spot, and a Roberto's Taco. All have a lovely view of the lagoon.

Directions

North Beach Parking Lot is located on McGonigle Rd, San Diego. It costs $10 to park in the large lot. You pay at the machine and put the ticket in your car.

Click on map for interactive view