Ponto Perfection

Relax at hidden South Ponto Beach in Carlsbad

It’s no secret that San Diego County is a treasure trove of sandy shores, with locals and tourists crowding the coast year-round. So when you find a hidden, less-visited stretch of sand, it feels special. And the first time you visit South Ponto Beach in Carlsbad, you feel like you’ve struck gold. So on your next beach day, relax at South Ponto and explore the nearby 0.7-mile Batiquitos Lagoon North Bluff Trail for a scenic seaside stint.

While there is parking at the south end of the beach ($15 lot), opt for the free street parking along Carlsbad Boulevard or at the small free lot at the road’s intersection with Avenida Encinas. From there, take the paved path that descends to the sand. You’ll immediately notice why the beach is special—it’s a rare, incredibly wide and spacious stretch of sand in an undeveloped area. Small sand dunes give a little seclusion from the coast highway, and beautiful Batiquitos Lagoon lies beyond. A large rocky hill, often with a scattering of resident seagulls, provides beachgoers with an interesting vista of the Pacific.

As you walk south along the soft sand, you’ll notice a unique feature of the beach: the large rocky Batiquitos Lagoon jetty that juts out where the lagoon waters enter the ocean. Walking along the rocky structure is a must—you get great views of the lagoon to the east, the smaller stretch of beach to the south and plenty of surfers catching waves at this special spot. After exploring, walk back, grab a spot on the sand (there’s plenty of space!) and enjoy your beach day.

BONUS BATIQUITOS: If you want to move your legs a little more, head north to Avenida Encinas and cross the street heading east. Crossing over the coast highway and the train tracks, find a trailhead on your right after just 0.2 mile.

This is the Batiquitos Lagoon North Bluff Trail. Take the stairs down to the dirt path that heads toward the rugged bluffs. You’ll soon have breathtaking views of the lagoon and beyond, as the trail turns east and flanks the lagoon.

There are interpretive signs as well as plenty of benches to stop at and take it all in. Turn back at the trail’s end. If you seek even more hiking, consider a short drive to the Batiquitos Lagoon Nature Center for more trails along the water.

To get to the north parking lot for South Ponto Beach, take the I-5 to the Poinsettia Lane exit and exit west. After 0.4 mile, turn left onto Carlsbad Blvd./Coast Hwy. After 0.7 mile, find the small paved lot on your right at the intersection with Avenida Encinas.

Story and photos by Matt Pawlik, @mattitudehikes

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Afternoon on the Island

    What is it about tiny islands in the middle of lakes? There’s something that just draws you in. It’s even more fun when getting there is half the adventure because you have to reach it by canoe, kayak, paddleboat, or a ranger-guided boat tour!

    View
  2. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View
  3. Rio Del Mar-velous

    Rio Del Mar State Beach in Aptos might be one of the best places for a treasure hunt. Its location between two other beaches makes for a good stroll featuring a spectacle of wildlife as you search the sand for sea glass and seashells.

    View
  4. Hiker taking a photo of sunset at Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve

    Sunshine and Skyline

    Head to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve for a 4-mile out-and-back hike on the Bay Area Ridge Trail that offers a front-row seat to spectacular sunsets.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Walking the Los Angeles River Trail Through Frogtown

    Frogtown Strutter’s Stroll

    Don’t go dismissing the Los Angeles River as merely a 51-mile concrete channel. It’s a genuine urban artery that links real neighborhoods, and its riverside bike/ped paths endear i

    View
  2. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View
  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View
  4. Ernie's Walk

    Stretching 51 miles from Canoga Park to Long Beach, the Los Angeles River has no shortage of walkways to enjoy. One segment that is particularly special is Ernie’s Walk in Sherman Oaks, a 0.3-mile stretch that is a delight to visit, and pay respect to its inspiration.

    View