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    Coast Walk Trail

    4.9 (33 reviews)

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    Ann L.

    This is an amazing place to see sea lions and seabirds! The walk is easy, and there's no need to pay to walk down to the cave in my opinion. The views from the top of the bluff are fabulous! There are easy access areas to view the wildlife if anyone in your group has mobility challenges. Bring binoculars for additional entertainment as the sea lions and birds are everywhere and active. We were fortunate enough to be here during nesting season for the cormorants and so were able to see babies of varying ages. Definitely don't miss this if you're in the LaJolla area.

    Edna G.

    Amazing location in LaJolla to see the ocean waters, sea lions, birds, and take a good stroll. I love the vibe here. Lots of people loving the weather, the shopping and restaurants close by. Parking may be difficult but doable. Great place to have a little picnic and see the sunset. This is one of my favorite spots in San Diego. [10R,2026]

    Rachel S.

    The Coast Walk Trail in La Jolla is one of those places that somehow exceeds expectations every single time. It is unbelievably beautiful and feels like peak Southern California in the best way. The ocean views are absolutely breathtaking, with rugged cliffs, sparkling blue water, and waves crashing below you the entire walk. No matter how many times you stop to look around, it never gets old. The trail itself is well maintained and easy to navigate, making it accessible for all ages and fitness levels. You can go at your own pace, whether that's a relaxed stroll or a longer walk, and still feel completely immersed in nature. The weather is almost always perfect with sunshine, mild temperatures, and a refreshing ocean breeze that makes the experience even better. One of the highlights is the wildlife. You'll likely see seals and sea lions lounging on the rocks, birds flying overhead, and if you're lucky, dolphins swimming just offshore. It feels like a front row seat to nature. This is the kind of place that makes you stop, slow down, and appreciate how stunning California really is. A must visit for tourists and locals alike, and absolutely deserving of five stars.

    The stunning La Jolla Cove as seen from the far end, right where the Coast Walk Trail begins its adventure.
    Chris G.

    For what it is, the Coastal Walk Trail in La Jolla is short but unforgettable, roughly half-a-mile of cliffside path with sweeping views of the Pacific, towering sandstone formations, sea lions basking nearby, and seabirds riding the surf breeze. We started the trek at the La Jolla cove which adds a little distance. The trail is mostly easy, with benches for resting, though parts are uneven or narrow. It's perfect for a peaceful stroll, especially at sunset or sunrise. We enjoyed the hike before breakfast; it's a good way to build your appetite.

    Scenic views
    Ryan M.

    A VERY short, but scenic trail. Start just outside The Cave Store and you'll find a very scenic walk. One of the most beautiful views in San Diego. You walk along the coast, cross a wooden bridge then it's over and you have to walk back. Very easy walk, not even a hike. The only cons are; in the beginning you start by the sea cliffs where lots of sea birds roost so it smells like the penguin area at SeaWorld (a mixture of rotten fish and bird poop) There isn't much parking so visit early in the morning but the trail is short so walking isn't so much an issue. To find it just go to the Cave Store. After your walk/hike consider going into the cave store and pay to walk down the stairs to see the inside of the cave or go to one of the kayak shops on Avenida De La Playa and do a kayak tour of the cave (depending on conditions) I used to tell out of town guest to visit La Jolla cove to look at the sea lions, I think this might be a better option or at least another place for them to visit.

    Felecia I.

    Want a short, easy walk that is also exceptionally scenic? Check out the La Jolla Coast trail. This 0.6 mile walk, right along the shoreline, is insanely beautiful. Ocean views? Check. Coastal birds flying around and perched on rocks? Check. Sea lions barking and swimming around? Check. Also, people with kayaks, SUP boards and snorkeling gear just enjoying outdoor recreation in the Pacific. The trail was first built in 1932, although it was believed to have been used some 9,500 years ago by Native Americans as an access point for hunting and fishing. It has an interesting history. Love this spot so much!

    Coastal Walk Trail atopbthis bluff
    Norbert K.

    I highly recommend this Trail to anyone visiting La Jolla.  The natural beauty is awesome. For about a year, we lived a 300 ft or so from Coast Walk, and used the Trail frequently to walk into/from La Jolla Village.  The trail rather meanders near the edge of a bluff overlooking La Jolla Bay. The trail is unpaved, uneven terrain bordered by great plants that flower at different times of the year.  There are benches along the way.  Stop to enjoy the views or just to rest.  At the Village (western) end, you can look down at La Jolla Cove with its sea lions, as well as the famous La Jolla Caves.  When you reach the end, you can continue your walk on Coast Blvd to La Jolla Cove or find your way up to Prospect Street ... and the Village. Very limited street parking on Coast Walk.  No restrooms on the trail.

    Anthony A.

    Beautiful low-key trail to walk in La Jolla. Lots of beautiful palms, agaves, and other plants. I highly recommend checking it out.

    Ayla B.

    Wow! Talk about a beautifully manicured trail with epic views! I walked the trail and picked a bench to sit on (there are benches throughout) to enjoy watching the waves crash in and the kayaking tours over the water. This is a great, safe space to find some quiet time and reflection as you gaze over the open ocean! Definitely recommend this spot and the trail is easy with minimal inclines! It would be suitable for all ages.

    4/15/23 FYI
    Lee D.

    Quality/Quantity - Cool, easy, beautiful 0.6 mile walk/hike. See pictures. Small beaches, see picture. And with seals. Great place to watch the kayakers, paddle surfers, etc. Next to the cave store, see pictures. Atmosphere - See above and pictures. 3 hour free parking; if you do not mind walking, free all day parking approximately half a mile away. Bike parking. Clean outdoor public bathrooms. Views over the La Jolla Ecological Reserve (which some refer to it as the La Jolla Bay). It has endangered birds and animals. Used to be a hunting trail. Also see "Dead Man's Leap," Devils Slide. Service - Self service. Price - Free. Owner Comment - Thanks to the residents and CA for keeping this trail and the area up.

    J E.

    While staying in LaJolla we heard about the views from this beautiful walk, so we stopped by one morning, around 9AM. There are two parking spots off of Coast Walk Trail (the actual road, prior to Prospect Rd), and we were fortunate to grab one when arriving. The views are amazing from here! The cove below, the walking trails and foliage, and the wildlife, mostly birds that you'll see are all beautiful! We walked a little way before turning around, but will definitely return and walk more of this amazing trail.

    View from the Trail to the ocean
    James A.

    Easy, paved walkway above the La Jolla Cove, giving great views of the ocean and people enjoying it. It is well maintained and there is even a wall to recognize the people and entities who contributed.

    We loved this nice light hike.
    Cherie M.

    Wow! What a great way to see San Diego! My partner and I went to visit some friends and decided to go on a nice walk before we went to brunch. We were not disappointed. I loved seeing the ocean, the seals? And the nature along this trail. It's good for walking, but be ready to do a little bit of hiking. It's right on the edge of the cliff. We will be back very soon!

    Coast Walk Trail

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    This trail is so pretty. Come early to get parking because even on weekdays the lot and street parking fills up fast.

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    Ask the Community - Coast Walk Trail

    Review Highlights - Coast Walk Trail

    “Bring binoculars for additional entertainment as the sea lions and birds are everywhere and active.”

    Mentioned in 11 reviews

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    La Jolla Trail - Along the hiking path.

    La Jolla Trail

    4.1(214 reviews)
    2.7 mi•La Jolla Shores

    I had heard a lot about the "Ho Chi Minh Trail" and finally tried it over a recent weekend. I am…read morenot sure who discovered or developed this hike, but it felt like, "Hey, let's follow the natural erosion of the land and create a shortcut to Black's Beach from the residences in La Jolla Farms." The number of people who were either barefooted or were wearing flip flops to make this trek really surprised me. I was wearing hiking shoes and was fortunate to only pick up a couple of minor scrapes along the way. The views of the canyons, the bluffs, and the hang gliders overhead were very beautiful so there were plenty of photo opportunities. I felt the hassle to descend towards the beach was not worth the short journey. The path was only about 3/4 mile in distance one way which I completed in about 20 minutes. Trekking poles were not at all useful, and they became a hindrance in a few areas. This was a hike in which you should NOT bring children or dogs. If you have a fear of heights, then you may also want to think twice before trying this trail. There were at least two or three very treacherous spots in which a slip could lead to a nasty fall with a concussion, sprain, fracture, or even death as an outcome. There are many other hiking locations in San Diego County that are more rewarding than the La Jolla Trail.

    Tried this hike a couple of times. Short and sweet with some scrambling/ mildly challenging areas…read more Beautiful views and ends in blacks beach. Lots of paragliders that glide off glider port nearby.

    Photos
    La Jolla Trail - Beach shore at the end of the hike

    Beach shore at the end of the hike

    La Jolla Trail - A doable hike with some challenging spots

    A doable hike with some challenging spots

    La Jolla Trail

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    Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve - The falls area

    Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve

    4.2(396 reviews)
    10.2 mi•Mira Mesa, Torrey Hills

    Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve is a great place to come out to hit the trails. There are several…read moretrails and I do plan to hit all of them up at some point. The trail I went on was well worn and went through canyon and up the hill towards the Qualcomm parking lot and down the hill on path leading back the parking lot off Sorrento Valley Blvd. on the west side of the preserve. It was a very nice walk and hike. In the canyon, there were a lot of beautiful Californian live oak trees, Californian Sycamores, and Freemont Cotton Woods, not to mention a lot of native shrubs and flowering plants. I was surprised to find wild squash vines fruiting in many places near the seasonal stream. I enjoyed the paths when they found their way through the shade of all the giant trees. I do look forward to exploring more of the canyon and what has to offer. The next hike will be to the seasonal waterfall.

    I've done this trail/hike quite a few times already since I grew up in the area. It's been a few…read moreyears since I had last done it and I went alone with my little dog a few months ago during the summer. BRING ALOT OF WATER. If you're new to this trail/hike, I would recommend the north trail. The south trail can be a bit confusing and you may get lost if you're inexperienced. Parking: I take a little shortcut and I park closer to Park Village elementary school and there's a little parking lot area roundabout that you can park in. Plenty of little trails , little critters, and people riding their horses through. A calming sight to see. there is good amount of water during the summertime when I went. Hiking shoes are not needed. When you get to the waterfall, there's plenty of rocks you can climb onto and it's pretty fun. Dog friendly, but make sure they're on a leash during the trail.

    Photos
    Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve - Path across a ridge

    Path across a ridge

    Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve
    Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve

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    Lake Murray - Always gorgeous

    Lake Murray

    4.4(336 reviews)
    13.8 mi

    Lake Murray is so beautiful and I enjoy coming here! I've been here a few times to walk the trail…read moreand also sit by the lake and read on a nice sunny morning. The birds can be a bit annoying, but guess that comes with the great outdoors. Definitely a nice spot to chill, take a walk and get those steps in. This area feels safe and well maintained. When I went, there weren't too many people, so it was pretty peaceful. The trail can get busy and there are bathrooms along the way (I didn't use them though) There's plenty of parking here, but just be sure you leave on time for closing. I've heard they lock up and it can be an issue with getting out. (not sure how true this is but I won't chance it) There is more parking elsewhere with trail access too, I just personally haven't found it.

    Lake Murray Service road walking trail is one of my go-to workouts--about 5.5 miles to the locked…read moregate and back. After entering the main entrance, follow the road and turn right where you will see a yellow locked gate. This is the beginning of the paved walking trail. There's plenty of parking at the main entrance, and the paved trail is perfect for walkers, runners, bikers, and even kids tagging along. It's basically a choose-your-own-adventure: bird watching, fishing (permit required), or just a casual picnic. Bonus perks: lots of porta potties and benches when you need a breather. If you're holding out for a real restroom, there's one just past the second baseball field--plan accordingly. Photo is attached to show where to locate this. Heads up: the main gate is closed every 2nd Tuesday of the month, but don't panic--you can still access the trail through the neighborhood entrance off Baltimore Drive. Hope you enjoy this walking trail as much as I do.

    Photos
    Lake Murray - Bench for a picnic. Be careful it maybe too hot out!

    Bench for a picnic. Be careful it maybe too hot out!

    Lake Murray - Read signs and be careful when wondering off the paved road.

    Read signs and be careful when wondering off the paved road.

    Lake Murray

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    Coast Walk Trail - hiking - Updated September 2026

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