Guide to San Diego's Coastal Running Routes: Scenic Trails by the Water

San Diego’s coastline offers some of the most scenic running routes in California with flat boardwalks, dramatic cliffside paths, wide low-tide beaches, and rolling trails with ocean views. Whether you’re training for a race, getting in a weekly long run, or simply enjoying a scenic jog, these coastal routes deliver perfect weather, ocean breezes, and unforgettable views.

This guide breaks down the best San Diego coastal running routes, complete with route descriptions, difficulty levels, distance notes, and tips for staying safe along the water. It also pairs well with our Beach Fitness Guide for workout ideas, stretching tips, and safety reminders.

Before you head out, subscribe to San Diego Beach Review for fresh guides on beaches, trails, coastal workouts, and outdoor gear.

1. Mission Bay Loop

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Distance: ~12 miles (full loop)

Difficulty: Easy

Terrain: Flat, paved path

Best For: Long runs, steady pacing, beginners, scenic cardio days

Mission Bay Loop is one of San Diego’s most popular running routes thanks to its calm water views, wide paths, and flexible mileage. You can complete the full loop or shorten it by using bridges to cut across different

sections.

Expect gentle breezes, sailboats drifting by, and easy access to restrooms and water fountains. It’s also ideal for runners who prefer separation from roads and traffic.

Highlights:

• Completely flat, ideal for tempo or easy long runs

• Family-friendly and accessible

• Connects to Mission Beach for extra mileage

For nearby activities, see our Mission Bay Guide.

2. Sunset Cliffs Coastal Run

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Distance: 3–5 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Terrain: Clifftop paths, sidewalks, rolling hills

Best For: Scenic runs, sunset miles, hill training

Sunset Cliffs offers one of the most dramatic coastal running experiences in San Diego. The path runs along the bluffs with uninterrupted ocean views, rugged cliffs, and open sky. It’s more of an out-and-back route, but the views make it memorable.

Expect rolling terrain and some uneven sections, great for strength and moderate hill work.

Tips:

• Stay on marked paths; cliffs are unstable in places

• Aim for early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures

Check out our full Guide to Sunset Cliffs for parking, safety, and viewpoints.

3. Torrey Pines State Reserve

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Distance: 3–7 miles depending on route

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Terrain: Steep climbs, dirt trails, bluffs

Best For: Hill workouts, trail running, ocean views

**Keep in mind that all Torrey Pines trails are closed until March 1, 2026 for construction**

Torrey Pines is one of the most rewarding coastal running spots in the county. You’ll gain elevation quickly, but the views from the top with ocean cliffs, sandstone formations, and quiet trails are worth every step.

Popular combinations include the Beach Trail, Razor Point Trail, and the main road climb, which offers a tough uphill workout.

Tips:

• Try early mornings to avoid crowds and heat

• Watch footing on sandy or uneven segments

• Park along Highway 101 for free access

For a full breakdown of trails and tips, visit our Guide to Torrey Pines.

4. Mission Beach & Pacific Beach Boardwalk

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Distance: ~3.5 miles one-way

Difficulty: Easy

Terrain: Flat boardwalk

Best For: Casual runs, sunrise runs, beginner-friendly miles

This classic San Diego run follows the beach from South Mission Beach up through Pacific Beach, with nonstop ocean views the entire way. The boardwalk is lively, so you can expect cyclists, skaters, and walkers, but early mornings are peaceful and ideal for running.

Highlights:

• Ocean breeze during the entire run

• Paved, flat surface

• Water fountains and restrooms throughout

For nearby beach info, see our Mission Beach Review.

5. Coastal Rail Trail (Solana Beach → Encinitas)

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Distance: 2–4 miles depending on section

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Terrain: Paved mixed-use path

Best For: Consistent pacing, shaded segments, low-traffic running

The Coastal Rail Trail provides a scenic inland-coastal mix parallel to Highway 101, with ocean views at points along the way. It’s perfect for runners who want to stay near the coast without dealing with beach crowds or narrow sidewalks on busy beach streets.

Expect quiet stretches, gentle inclines, and a smooth surface, excellent for weekly mileage.

6. Carlsbad Boardwalk

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Distance: ~4 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Terrain: Paved oceanfront walkway

Best For: Beginners, easy runs, race training with ocean views

Carlsbad’s waterfront run is wide, clean, and scenic, which is excellent for runners who want to stay right next to the water. The path is separated from the road and contains low walls, creating a comfortable running experience.

Highlights:

• Popular stretch for training before the Carlsbad Marathon or Half

• Consistent breezes and beautiful coastal views

• Parking usually easier than in central San Diego beaches

See our Carlsbad Beach Review coming soon.

7. Any Beach at Low Tide

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Distance: Variable

Difficulty: Easy to moderate (depending on sand firmness)

Terrain: Firm sand at low tide

Best For: Barefoot running, recovery miles, scenic long runs

During low tide, many San Diego beaches offer miles of packed sand perfect for running. Del Mar, Coronado, Cardiff, Carlsbad, La Jolla Shores, and Mission Beach all reveal wide, firm stretches ideal for low-impact miles.

Tips:

• Check tide charts before heading out

• Wear shoes if you’re not used to sand running

• Avoid high tide, which leads to soft sand and uneven footing

For low-tide running suggestions see our guide to Hidden Coastal Gems in San Diego.

Safety Tips for Coastal Running

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• Check tides and surf conditions for low-tide routes.

• Wear layers, especially for wind along the cliffs and boardwalks.

• Bring hydration, especially for Sunset Cliffs and Torrey Pines.

• Use sun protection, even on overcast mornings.

• Watch for uneven terrain on cliffs, trails, and soft sand.

For more safety tips, see our Beach Safety and Family Tips Guide.

FAQ: San Diego Coastal Running Routes

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Q: Which coastal running route is best for beginners?

A: Mission Bay Loop, Carlsbad Boardwalk, and the Mission Beach Boardwalk offer flat, easy terrain perfect for beginners.

Q: Where can I run with nonstop ocean views?

A: Sunset Cliffs, Mission Beach, and the Carlsbad Boardwalk all offer uninterrupted ocean scenery.

Q: What’s the best place for hill training?

A: Torrey Pines is the top choice for challenging elevation and scenic reward.

Q: Are there bathrooms and water along the routes?

A: Most major boardwalks and Mission Bay have restrooms and water fountains. Sunset Cliffs and Torrey Pines have limited facilities.

Q: Can I run on the actual beach?

A: Yes, running on hard-packed sand at low tide is popular at Del Mar, Cardiff, La Jolla Shores, and Mission Beach.

Conclusion

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San Diego’s coastal running routes offer something for everyone—from scenic beginner paths to challenging cliffside climbs. Whether you’re training for a race or just soaking up the coastal scenery, these routes provide some of the most enjoyable and inspiring miles in Southern California.

Looking for more coastal fitness guides, running tips, and beach reviews? Subscribe to San Diego Beach Review and explore our full library of guides to get the most out of your time on the coast.