Black's Beach is perhaps the most beautiful beach as well as one of the best areas for parasailing in San Diego--thanks to the high cliffs as well as its status as a semi-nude beach.
| It is never crowded, because getting there takes some effort. Because of its relative remoteness, this beach became known for its nude bathing. After complaints from a small minority that was offended by this back-to-nature approach, the city became less tolerant, and life guards gave out warnings to nude bathers. However, one section still allows for nudity, and on any sunny day you can see many body types enjoying a volleyball game or a dip in the ocean. |
Black's is also a prime surf location. Waves can get pretty high here, and many surfers brave the steep cliffs with their boards to catch those waves. Check out the new lifeguard mobile unit, especially designed for Black's Beach. Now life guards can get out of the sun once in a while.
Getting to Black's takes some footwork. You can walk south from Torrey Pines Beach in Del Mar (the community along the coast north of San Diego), walk from La Jolla Shores Beach north along the water (only during low tide), take the trail down from the Torrey Pines Glider Port (fairly steep trail and steps), take a trail through Torrey Pines State Park, or walk down a steep life guard service road off La Jolla Farms Road (which is what most locals take). Either way, you will have to put in some effort.
| Be aware that the cliffs are very unstable, and that shortcuts are not recommended. Every year some people have to be rescued because they believed the warning sign posts were only for others. At least three deaths a year occur from falling down these cliffs. |
And don't sunbathe right below these cliffs. Even if the entire cliff wall does not collapse, small and large rocks may and do come down regularly, often aided by ravens looking for lizards or insects.
When in San Diego, make the elegant Hotel Del Coronado your base. Rising from water's edge on the quaint island of Coronado in San Diego , the Hotel del Coronado is considered one of America 's most beautiful beach resorts. A classic historic hotel, The Del was built in 1888 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977. Today, The Del offers travelers contemporary luxury in an enchanting Victorian atmosphere.
