The 5 Best San Diego Hikes

A beautiful outdoor hike or walk can do wonders for the body and mind. There’s a trail for everyone in San Diego, from the picturesque Torrey Pines State Reserve to the beautiful Terra Mar Point. Lace up those hiking boots or put on those walking shoes and enjoy a beautiful stroll on my 5 favorite San Diego Hikes:

1. Terra Mar Point: Carlsbad Beach at Coast Highway and Cerezo Drive. I love this San Diego beach walk at low tide. Explore the great tide pools and large swaths of sand for a stroll that usually reveals shells and sand dollars.

2. Torrey Pines State Reserve in Del Mar provides great hiking and clean views. When you are feeling fit, you can park down on the coast road and hike up the hill to begin your hike on one of the many trails. A couple years ago on a February day, my friend and I pulled up to witness a whale about 50 yards out putting on a show.

3. The Way Up Trail in Escondido is a 521 foot elevation climb over about 2 miles that leads to views of the Olivenhain Reservoir. There are additional trails from the top that wind to beautiful views. It’s listed as easy, but the first mile or so is a pretty good climb.

4. Annie’s Canyon Trail is entered at Rios Ave. Trailhead in Solana Beach. The trail is easy with the exception of the slot canyon.

5. Batiquitos Lagoon there are several parking areas along the lagoon and the Nature Center is at 7380 Gabbiano Lane in Carlsbad. This is the western most parking area and the only access that does not have a hill to walk down. The trail itself is about 3.5 miles from end to end is virtually flat. While there are no public restrooms at the trail, there is a Golf clubhouse with facilities that makes for a nice stopping point. Dogs must be leashed. When I’m feeling the need to walk near water and the ocean tide is high, the lagoon hits the spot.