01
Iconic coastal classic
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Just South Of Del Mar Along The Coast • Cliffside Coastal Reserve With Ocean-View Trails • Must-Do Coastal Hike
Sweeping Pacific views, sandy singletrack, and rare Torrey pines make this the definitive Del Mar-area hike.
Pick one of the shorter loops if you want views without a big time commitment, or link trails for a longer outing between the lodge and the beach. Parking fills quickly on weekends, so arrive early and expect some climbing on sun-exposed paths. Bring a layer—ocean breezes can feel cool even on bright days.
02
Best flat, scenic walk
San Dieguito Lagoon & Coast to Crest Trail
East Of Del Mar Near The Fairgrounds • Riverside Path Through Restored Wetland Habitat • Best For Relaxed Strolls And Birdwatching
A mostly flat, well-signed trail skirting the lagoon with big-sky views and frequent bird sightings.
This stretch of the Coast to Crest Trail is ideal if you want movement without steep hills, making it friendly for kids, casual walkers, and recovery days. Benches and overlooks let you pause to watch egrets, osprey, and seasonal migrations over the water. Go at golden hour for softer light and cooler temperatures, especially on fairground event days when parking can be busier.
03
Most memorable short adventure
Annie's Canyon Trail (San Elijo Lagoon)
North Of Del Mar Near Solana Beach • Narrow Sandstone Slot Canyon Loop • Best For A Quick, Fun Outing
A short loop that squeezes through a sandstone slot canyon before popping out to lagoon and ocean views.
Start from one of the San Elijo Lagoon trailheads and follow signs toward Annie’s Canyon for a compact hike with a surprising sense of adventure. The slot section is one-way, steep, and tight in places, so skip it if you’re claustrophobic and use the alternate viewpoint instead. Go early or on weekdays to avoid bottlenecks in the canyon and bring shoes you don’t mind getting sandy.
04
Best sunset bluff walk
Scripps Bluff Preserve
Del Mar Bluffs Above The Beach • Short Bluff-Top Paths Overlooking The Ocean • Scenic Sunset And Photo Spot
A compact network of dirt paths along the bluffs with front-row views of the surf and trains rolling by below.
This is more of a leisurely bluff walk than a big hike, but the payoff in views is hard to beat, especially at sunset. Combine a stroll here with time on the beach or a walk through Del Mar’s nearby streets for a fuller outing. Surfaces can be uneven and close to the edge in spots, so watch your footing and keep dogs leashed.
05
Inland canyon escape
Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve
Inland East Of Del Mar Via Carmel Valley • Shaded Canyon Trail Along A Year-Round Creek • Best For Longer, Family-Friendly Miles
A broad, mostly gentle canyon trail with pockets of shade, a creek crossing, and a small waterfall as a turnaround goal.
Access the preserve from the western trailheads off Carmel Valley to keep the drive from Del Mar short, then follow the main canyon path as far as your group feels like going. The wide trail works well for mixed-ability groups, runners, and mountain bikers, though it can get dusty and warm midday. Spring offers greener hillsides and more water flow, but it’s a solid go-to walk nearly year-round.