North County San Diego is famous for its coastal lifestyle, and there’s no better way to experience it than exploring the region’s incredible trails. Whether you love an energizing hike, a casual stroll, or soaking up ocean views, these trails offer something for everyone.
Here are some of our favorite North County San Diego coastal trails—with tips on how to find them and what you’ll see along the way:
1. San Elijo Lagoon & Annie’s Canyon Trail
- Location: Cardiff/Encinitas
- Trailhead Address: 831 Vulcan Ave, Encinitas, CA 92024
- Parking: Free lot at the Nature Center or street parking.
Trail Experience:
You’ll start on a wide dirt path with peaceful lagoon views framed by distant coastal hills. The highlight is Annie’s Canyon—a short but exciting sandstone slot canyon you can climb via metal steps to a panoramic overlook of the wetlands and the Pacific Ocean beyond. Expect some tight squeezes through the canyon walls!
More Info & Map
2. Batiquitos Lagoon Trail
- Location: Carlsbad
- Trailhead Address: 7380 Gabbiano Ln, Carlsbad, CA 92011
- Parking: Small free lot by the Nature Center.
Trail Experience:
A mostly shaded dirt trail along the calm lagoon, perfect for birdwatching. You’ll see native plants, marsh views, and occasional kayakers. Benches along the way invite you to sit quietly and enjoy the scenery. The trail is flat and easy, great for families or a relaxing morning walk.
3. Torrey Pines State Reserve
- Location: Just south of Del Mar
- Trailhead Address: 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
- Parking: Paid lots in the reserve or limited free parking along Coast Highway.
Trail Experience:
This is one of California’s most iconic coastal preserves. The Guy Fleming Trail is an easy loop with jaw-dropping ocean overlooks and seasonal wildflowers. Razor Point Trail offers dramatic sandstone formations and views south toward La Jolla. The Beach Trail takes you down to a secluded stretch of sand beneath towering cliffs—perfect for a picnic.
Visit Torrey Pines
4. Coastal Rail Trail
- Location: Oceanside to Solana Beach
- Trailheads & Parking:
- Oceanside Transit Center (195 S Tremont St)
- Carlsbad Village Train Station (2775 State St)
- Solana Beach Station (105 N Cedros Ave)
Trail Experience:
This wide paved path parallels the train tracks, connecting charming downtown areas with ocean glimpses. In Carlsbad, you’ll stroll past coffee shops and boutiques. In Encinitas, it’s easy to detour to Moonlight Beach or grab lunch on Coast Highway. The route is perfect for biking or long walks with plenty of coastal atmosphere.
5. Carlsbad Seawall Walk
- Location: Carlsbad Village
- Trailhead Address: 3898 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008
- Parking: Free and metered parking along Carlsbad Blvd or Tamarack lot.
Trail Experience:
A smooth, paved walkway directly overlooking the ocean. On one side, you’ll have crashing waves and sandy beaches; on the other, beautiful homes and palm trees. This spot is especially stunning at sunset—bring a camera and a warm layer for evening breezes.
6. Encinitas Coastal Bluffs Trail
- Location: Swami’s Beach, Encinitas
- Trailhead Address: 1298 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
- Parking: Small lot at Swami’s or street parking.
Trail Experience:
This short, unpaved bluff-top path feels like a secret garden above the surf. You’ll see surfers catching waves, dolphins in the distance, and flowering succulents along the cliff edge. Combine your walk with a peaceful visit to the Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens just across the street.
7. Buena Vista Lagoon Trail
- Location: Between Carlsbad and Oceanside
- Trailhead Address: 2202 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054
- Parking: Limited lot at Buena Vista Nature Center.
Trail Experience:
A quiet escape from busy beaches. This short trail meanders through native plants and opens onto viewing decks overlooking the calm lagoon waters. Bring binoculars—this is one of the best spots in North County to watch herons, pelicans, and other coastal birds.
8. Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve
- Location: Inland near Escondido (about 20–25 min from Encinitas)
- Trailhead Address: 8833 Harmony Grove Rd, Escondido, CA 92029
- Parking: Free parking lot at the main entrance.
Trail Experience:
While technically inland, this reserve offers panoramic views all the way to the ocean on clear days. The Way Up Trail climbs steadily through chaparral and shady oaks to an overlook and picnic area. Trails range from easy creekside walks to moderate climbs with rewarding vistas over Olivenhain Dam and coastal hills. Early morning is best to beat the heat.
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Local Tip
Even if you’re just exploring neighborhoods to see where you’d like to live, walking these trails is a perfect way to feel the spirit of each community—from laid-back Leucadia to bustling Carlsbad Village.
At Neda Nourani & Associates, we don’t just help you find the perfect home—we share the lifestyle that makes North County San Diego so special. If you’re thinking about moving closer to the coast, our team is ready to help you every step of the way.
👉 Contact Us Today to learn more about coastal living.