Probably one reason this scenic beach is relatively secluded is that it can be difficult to get to. So far I am aware of 4 possibly ways each with its own challenges - 1) Gliderport Trail - this is probably the most direct way but it’s still quite a hike down through a rough semi paved/make shift ‘stairway’, getting back up is a lot more challenging. 2) Ho Chi Minh (or Saigon) Trail which is by far the most challenging and not for the faint hearted 3) La Jolla Farms Road trail, you will have to park on certain side roads (has a 2 hour limit) in a neighborhood full of huge million dollar homes, and then hike down a trail (use Google Maps to find this trail) which leads you to the south of Blacks Beach 4) From La Jolla Shores BUT use this route only during LOW tide via a series of tide pools - the real disadvantage is that you can only get there and back during low tide. If you choose to use this route don’t lose track of time and be aware of the tide and do get stuck.

That said my preference is the Gliderport trail as it’s the most direct and parking is free at the Gliderport parking lot with no time limit. Additionally I can get a fairly good workout going up and down. Wear comfortable hiking or walking shoes.

The apparent challenges in getting to Blacks Beach are worth it as it’s a huge and wide beach with beautiful sands, scenic and untouched by commercialization with the magnificent Pacific Ocean in front. It’s also a great place to watch amazing sunsets. During low tide, parts of the beach is carpeted with beautiful and gentle seashells.

A few notes to parents with kids: 1) Blacks Beach (at least the north part) is a popular clothing optional beach. The nudists on the beach will not mind your presence and they will not bug you but their nudity may be uncomfortable for your kids. One option is go to the south side of Blacks Beach (nearer to bottom of Ho Chi Minh Trails) where the clothing optional policy ends using the La Jolla Farms Trails but use caution going down the trail 2) there are no restroom or shower facilities 3) Lifeguards are not always on duty.

Have been to San Diego several times and never gets old. Multiple beaches for different locations with very different scenery. I also love the tour of the USS Midway and the old submarines. I also took my family on the the swift boat and that it might be the only one left. It was great and will definitely be back.

Are you wanting to commit suicide? A good place to break your head is trying to climb down the incredibly steep climb down to the beech. Thank God my more experienced friend took off his sneakers off and let me wear them. I would never have made it down without harm. Once I finally made it down.....I noticed the beach was dead. But there were some naked geriatric individuals there. So I found out it was a nude beach! Ugh!!!! Now I have to try and get back up the steep hill/mountain. omg