San Onofre State Beach has always been a familiar sight during drives to San Diego. Like many, I’d often glimpsed it from Interstate 5, noting the picnic tables and fire pits of the campground, but never stopped to explore. It’s easy to assume you’ve seen it all from the highway, but California’s state parks, especially its beaches, often hold hidden gems beyond the roadside view. Officially located in San Diego County, San Onofre feels closer to San Clemente, offering a coastal escape that’s surprisingly accessible.
Father and children hiking a trail at San Onofre State Beach
Getting to San Onofre State Beach
Accessing San Onofre State Beach is straightforward. Take the Basilone/San Onofre exit south of San Clemente from Interstate 5. Head towards the beach on the frontage road, which passes street parking for surf spots and turn-offs for Edison and the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS).
Continue south, keeping parallel to I-5. You’ll encounter a kiosk where you can pay the day use fee, typically around $15, or $20 on certain weekends. For frequent visitors, an annual pass is highly recommended for cost-effectiveness and return visits. GET DIRECTIONS TO SAN ONOFRE STATE BEACH
Exploring San Onofre State Beach: Trails and Basics
San Onofre State Beach features six marked trails descending from the bluffs to the beach, simply named Trail 1 through Trail 6. For those bringing canine companions, Trails 1 and 6 are dog-friendly (dogs are prohibited between these trails and not allowed on the beach itself).
The San Onofre Foundation (The San Onofre Foundation) provides excellent resources on the area’s hiking and cultural significance, highlighting why this section of the park is known as “Trails.”
Hiking the San Onofre State Beach Trail 6 to Trail 5 Loop
On our visit, we drove directly to Trail 6, situated near the Border Patrol Checkpoint on Interstate 5. Parking for day use is on the left, closer to the freeway, while camping spots are on the right.
While there are various trail options, we parked near Trail 6. It’s worth noting that Trail 6 is no longer associated with nude bathing, as indicated by clearly posted “Nudity Prohibited” signs. Despite past rumors, families can be assured of a public, family-oriented beach experience here.
Our hike began across a field of wildflowers atop the bluff, leading to stunning views of sandstone bluffs and the Pacific Ocean. The panoramic vistas are perfect for photography, so remember to bring a camera.
Ocean view with wildflowers from San Onofre State Beach Trail 6
Descending to the beach, we found a mix of rocks and driftwood washed ashore, which became impromptu building materials for the kids’ fort construction. We enjoyed a beach picnic while watching surfers and soaking in the coastal scenery.
One member of our group brought a dog, and remained on the trail, hiking back up Trail 6. The rest of us, including kids and nephews, embarked on a mini-adventure, walking along the bluff base north towards Trail 5.
Trail 5 presents a contrasting landscape. The terrain felt like stepping into an Indiana Jones movie set. Flooding has altered parts of the lower trail, but it remains accessible, requiring a few larger steps and aided by ropes marking the path. Emerging at the top of Trail 5, we followed the paved road back to our starting point at the car.
Coastal bluffs and beach views at San Onofre State Beach
Exploring San Onofre Beach Trail 4
After many years, we ventured onto Trail 4, a new experience for us. While general park information remains consistent, a separate post details our exploration of Trail 4 with specific photos and descriptions. Discover more about San Onofre State Beach Trail 4 here.
San Onofre State Beach: Family Highlights
- Easy Hike and Beach Combo: Perfect for families seeking a blend of gentle hiking and beach relaxation.
- Wildflower Blooms: April and May bring vibrant wildflower displays, enhancing the scenic trails.
- Spectacular Ocean and Bluff Views: Breathtaking coastal panoramas from the bluff tops and beach level.
- Varied Beach Terrain: Sandy areas near the bluffs transition to smooth rocks closer to the ocean.
- Nature Exploration: Ideal for nature journaling and observing local wildlife like animal tracks and bees.
- Kid-Friendly Trails: Trails are manageable for children aged 3-8 and older. For beaches with easier access, consider Aliso Beach Park or Calafia at San Clemente State Beach for no-walk beach days.
Family walking towards the beach at San Onofre State Beach
Important Considerations for Your Visit
- Not Stroller-Friendly: Trails are generally unsuitable for standard strollers. Jogger strollers might handle Trail 6, but Trail 5 is not accessible. Baby carriers or backpacks are recommended for infants and toddlers.
- Limited Beach Restrooms: Beach restrooms are unavailable, and bluff-top restrooms may be locked during the off-season. Plan restroom breaks accordingly.
- Safety in Numbers: While family-friendly, the beach can feel isolated during the off-season, especially for solo visitors. The buddy system is advised.
- Parking Variability: Parking can be limited on busy camping weekends and during peak summer months. Arrive early to secure a spot.
- Footwear Recommendation: Closed-toe shoes are recommended for hiking portions of the trails. Beach shoes can be worn on the sand.
- Uphill Return: Be prepared for uphill inclines on the return hike from the beach to the bluff top.
- Swimming Conditions: San Onofre is not ideally suited for children’s swimming due to ocean conditions.
- Paid Parking: Day use parking requires a fee, payable on the left side entrance.
- Avoid Missed Exits: If approaching from Orange County, be attentive to the exit to avoid a lengthy detour through Camp Pendleton.
- Trail Condition Updates: Trail conditions can change due to weather and erosion. Inquire about trail closures at the ranger station upon entry, as conditions may not be apparent from the bluff top.
Trail signs for Trail 5 and Trail 6 at San Onofre State Beach
Essential Checklist for San Onofre State Beach:
- Ensure everyone has used restroom facilities before starting the trail.
- Pack snacks, water, hand wipes, and consider baby powder and towels for sand removal before the uphill walk.
- Budget for the $15-$20 day use parking fee.
- Keep a change of clothes in the car for wet, sandy, or dirty children.
- Apply sunscreen generously and enjoy your family beach day.
- Official San Onofre State Beach Information
Beach rocks at San Onofre State Beach coastline
Originally posted in May 2010.
