With its over 250 days of sunshine a year and plenty of Vitamin D to share, San Diego is the perfect spot for a fun and active hike! Whether you’re into an easy going trail or something a bit more rigorous, SD offers endless beautiful trails for everyone. Beach views, lagoon views, even views of Mexico in the distance, there’s no doubt you’ll easily find your next favorite trail and one you’ll be gladly hiking for years to come.
Check out my top 5 hiking trails in San Diego below and let me know which one you think you’ll be exploring next – you definitely won’t regret it!
1. Torrey Pines State Park
There’s a reason this one is at the top of my list! This is my absolute favorite hike in SD and one of the first places my love took me to when I first visited San Diego before making the move here. It’s hard not to fall in love with SD after experiencing this! This hike features stunning cliffside and ocean views and so much more! You start off this trail hiking at a slight incline for about 15-20 minutes on a road (make sure to keep to the side and be mindful of the cars!). Some people choose to drive up to the top but where’s the fun in that?! From there, you’ll notice a couple of options that lead you into the trail. This is a pretty easy going trail altogether and suitable for all ages. Make your way down the steps to the beach to enjoy a beach walk or a dip in the ocean before heading back home.
2. Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail
This one is near my work and one that I’ve frequented on many occasions. I can say I’ve done the entire loop only once and it was beautiful! Do be mindful of the time of year you embark on this one and there’s very little shade and its easy to get overheated quick! There are restrooms available at the head of the trail and overall, like the Torrey Pines trail, this is an easy going hike suitable for all ages. The best part, a waterfall at the end of the loop! How awesome is that?
3. La Jolla Coast Walk Trail
There is so much I love about La Jolla and this is definitely one of the reasons. Another easy hike that runs along the coastline and offers stunning ocean views. There is an awesome lookout point as well where you can peep at kayakers or the famous San Diego seals that like to lounge in the sun.
4. Batiquitos Lagoon
This one’s a little further north but worth the drive! There is plenty of street parking available in the residential area in Carlsbad that this path begins. You won’t find any inclines or switchbacks here, simple an easy going walk along the picturesque lagoon. A great place to bring your 4-legged friend!
5. Cuyamaca Peak
Also north of San Diego but absolutely worth the drive! I can say the views of the expansive mountains and valleys seen here are the most stunning and impressive. There are a few trail options that lead you to the peak and I would classify this one as a moderate trail so be ready to get your workout on! Another bonus about this location? It’s near Julian so feel free to reward yourself with a warm slice of apple pie afterwards!
What’s your favorite hiking trail in San Diego? Let me know in the comments section below!
