9 Interesting Facts About Black’s Beach La Jolla

Pictures just don’t do Black’s Beach San Diego justice. The dramatic Torrey Pines cliffs and Pacific Ocean waves are nothing short of breathtaking.

Also known as Torrey Pines City Beach and Torrey Pines State Beach, the iconic coastal destination is right below the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and near the Torrey Pines Municipal Golf Course. The secluded La Jolla beach extends for nearly 2.5 miles and provides abundant recreational opportunities.

Arguably San Diego’s most interesting beach, this attraction is far more nuanced than most visitors realize. You’re about to learn what sets it apart.

1. Its official name isn’t actually Black’s Beach.

While locals and tourists alike typically call this stretch of coastline Black’s Beach, it can actually be referred to by two separate names: Torrey Pines State Beach and Torrey Pines City Beach.

These monikers reference the split between the northern portion of the beach (managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation) and the southern portion (managed by the City of San Diego).

2. It is popular despite — or perhaps, because of — its lack of features typically found at local beaches.

Boardwalks, jetties, bathrooms, and parking may not be easily accessible from Black’s Beach, but that doesn’t detract from its appeal to local enthusiasts.

In fact, the very lack of these features may be what convinces some people to spend so much time there. The natural scenery is truly remarkable for a beach situated so conveniently near the city — typically, huge hotels, condominiums, and other beachfront properties overlook such locations. 

As a frequent visitor explains in a PBS documentary about the beach, “It’s a more spiritual vibe…because of the commitment it takes to get down there. That changes the experience and the feeling you have, ultimately, for that experience.”

3. The beach’s unofficial name is controversial, as is its history.

The “Black” from Black’s Beach does not reference the color of the sand or the bluffs. Rather, the beach is named for William Black — an increasingly controversial figure.

Born in Texas, Black made a fortune in the oil industry. He was also heavily involved in banking, philanthropy, and even horse breeding. He co-founded the Bank of La Jolla and eventually developed a 248-acre oceanside parcel into La Jolla Farms, an affluent residential area with a troubling history of excluding minorities. 

Ownership at La Jolla Farms was based on membership with Bill Black’s Beach and Bridle Club. As Stephanie Greene explained in a letter to the California Department of Parks and Recreation, this was only available to those of “Caucasian European ancestry, which by definition excluded all Jews and people of color.” 

These days, La Jolla residents are well aware of the area’s problematic history regarding race relations. Now, Black’s Beach is a welcome respite for people from all walks of life. Still, the issues surrounding its history have prompted an effort to have the beach entirely renamed, both officially and for casual use. 

4. Black’s Beach has a long reputation for attracting nudists as a clothing-optional beach

Some of the controversy behind Black’s Beach relates to its tendency to attract Southern California nudists. This has long been a reality, even though public nudity was technically banned as far back as the 1970s. To this day, however, nudists continue to flout the rules.

The beach’s reputation as a nudist hangout doesn’t bother most visitors, but the possibility of seeing someone in the buff should be considered before visiting. That being said, there’s no guarantee you’ll see nudists when you stop by; the so-called nude beach is rarely crowded, and at times, it’s possible to visit without seeing anybody at all. 

The clothing-optional portion of the beach is just south of the Gliderport trail beach access point.

5. The most popular — and most dangerous — route to the beach involves the Gliderport Trail

Black’s Beach is accessible via four access routes involving brief, intense hikes or longer treks. Many visitors rely on the hike from the Torrey Pines Gliderport, which descends approximately 300 feet over nearly one mile.

The terrain is rugged, and this route is not recommended, but if you are determined to tackle it, wear high-quality hiking boots. Don’t attempt after rainfall as the trail becomes slippery and unstable.

Keep in mind that the City of San Diego posts a “do not use” sign at this popular route due to the notorious instability of the cliff.

You’ll find free parking in the large dirt parking lot at Torrey Pines Gliderport, in addition to likely seeing colorful hang gliders sailing across the blue sky from here to La Jolla Shores Beach and up past Torrey Pines State Reserve.

Easier, safer, and less strenuous routes also lead to Black’s Beach at low tides. Given the reality of timing tides, the least challenging paths are often out of reach during high tides. Top options include:

• Walk on the sand from the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve parking lot. This beach trail extends two miles but may be blocked during high tide.
• Head to the mesa at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. You’ll find clearly-marked trails, leading all the way down to the beach.
• Start at La Jolla Shores Beach, and walk north on the sand past Scripps Pier. Again, this may be unavailable during higher tides. When accessible, it involves a long walk of three miles.

Use a tide chart to help gauge the likelihood of walking to Black’s Beach on the sand.

6. Access by road is available to a select few people.

While most visitors walk to Black’s Beach, access is technically available by an access route near La Jolla Farms Road and Blackgold Road.

This is heavily restricted, however, with a black gate keeping most vehicles out. The university controls vehicle access down the paved road, but public access on foot is available.

Exceptions are granted for road access to those fortunate enough to have the elusive Black’s Beach key, which has been at the center of much speculation for years. 

Many have referred to the key for the Black’s Beach gate as “the most valuable surf key in the U.S.” Possession of this key can represent a significant burden, with some people offering large sums of money in hopes of obtaining it.

Surfline references the road to Black’s Beach as the preferred option for “squeamish surfers.” 

One sure way to get the elusive key is to buy an eligible property in the prestigious La Jolla Farms community, which will set you back multiple millions.

7. The beach is a birder’s paradise.

Avid birders visit Black’s Beach, which provides an amazing habitat for many species. In the aforementioned PBS documentary, for example, one dedicated birder claims to have “set up shop down there,” often spending seven days a week hunting for feathered friends.

This birding enthusiast is especially passionate about watching peregrine falcons, “documenting their every movement” for up to ten hours daily. 

Peregrine falcons adore Black’s Beach, but this is just one of many types of birds spotted there. Other commonly seen species include the following:

• Red-tailed hawks
• Cormorants
• Blue heron
• Whimbrel
• Sanderling

8. Black’s Beach is one of California’s most underrated surfing locations.

UCSD surfers have long flocked to the southern end of this beach because it’s known as a prime surf spot. As an alumnus, I look back at these excursions fondly. (I never surfed here, but I would go to enjoy the beach and hang out with friends.)

Surfline highlights “three main peaks, shifting phantom peaks, and sneaky insiders that work according to conditions.” They adore the conditions at low tide but also make a point of visiting for the awe-inspiring scenery.

Many assume that the excellent surfing is a result of an underwater submarine canyon, but oceanography expert Kai Hally-Rosendahl explains that Scripps Canyon is “responsible for the small waves shoreward of the canyon head, and the larger waves north of the canyon at Black’s.”

The famous, powerful swells and strong currents are not for novice surfers.

9. San Diego lifeguards patrol from a permanent station.

Lifeguards are on watch at Black’s Beach from one of San Diego’s nine permanent lifeguard stations despite its relatively secluded nature.

That being said, those lacking significant experience should avoid this surfing location. The riptide from Scripps Canyon can be challenging to overcome. Likewise, only strong swimmers should attempt to hit the water.

Regardless of experience with swimming or surfing, it’s important to remain within sight of a lifeguard at all times. These hardworking individuals are well aware of how dangerous the beach’s rough waters can be, as they often need to make rescues. While these typically involve rip currents, lifeguards also often rescue visitors who struggle to navigate the Torrey Pines cliffs.

FAQs About Black’s Beach in La Jolla

Can you surf at black’s beach?

Black’s Beach is well-known as a prime surf spot and one of California’s most underrated surfing locations. Keep in mind, due to the powerful swells and strong currents, this beach is not recommended for beginner surfers or inexperienced swimmers.

Where is black’s Beach located?

Black’s Beach sits along the rocky La Jolla coastline, just below the Torrey Pines Gliderport and just north of La Jolla Shores Beach. Black Beach is a part of Torrey Pines State Beach. 

What is the address for black’s Beach San Diego?

The address for Black’s Beach San Diego is 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive, La Jolla, CA 92037

Can You Drive Down to Black’s Beach?

No. You’ll need to walk to Black’s Beach unless you have a key to the gate or are a resident of the La Jolla Farms community.

Is Black’s Beach Crowded?

No. Thanks to the lengthy calf-burning hike down and back up to the beach, it is not crowded.

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From surfing to birding and relaxing on a nude beach, there is something for everyone at Black’s Beach in La Jolla. This hidden gem is a must-visit destination for those (without kids) looking for a secluded beach.