Trail To Trestles Beach

This is the final section of trail that leads to Trestles Beach. There is a pay parking lot near the Carl’s Jr. restaurant near the Cristianitos exit, along with some public street parking. Cross over the San Diego Freeway and turn left onto the trail and walk down hill. Make a right when you reach San Mateo Creek bridge and head down this final section to the beach.

Usually there is some graffiti on the trail telling you to turn back, but most people are friendly and if you don't plan onsurfing you should not have a problem. Local Surfers are protective of the beach and for good reason this is one of the best surfing spots on the west coast. No dogs are allowed on this section of trail but you can walk your tail-wagger along the bluff.

At the end of the trail you are rewarded by a view of the famous Trestles bridge and the wide open beach beyond. About 45 trains travel over the bridge every day so cross under the tracks and be safe. Turn right for San Clemente or turn left for about three miles of pristine beach ending at San Onofre State Beach.