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Torrey Pines Gliderport

4.4 (503 reviews)
Closed 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Torrey Pines Gliderport Photos

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Adnan K.

Torrey Pines Gliderport is a city-owned private-use glider airport in the La Jolla community of San Diego. It is the home to hang gliding, paragliding, radio-controlled model sailplanes, and full-scale man-carrying sailplanes. Perched high above the cliffs, this spot offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific. It is listed as a National Landmark of Soaring of the National Soaring Museum, a San Diego City Historical Site, and a Model Aviation Landmark of the Academy of Model Aeronautics. It is listed on the California Register of Historic Places and the National Register of Historic Places. It is considered by glider enthusiasts of all types to be the "Kitty Hawk of the West". This hang gliding center offers paragliding experiences and tandem flights. They also highlight the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, the fun and exciting atmosphere, and the delicious pizzas and sandwiches. We visited this beautiful place on Thanksgiving Day during our San Diego trip. Since it was a holiday, all paragliding activities were closed. However, we'd heard that Torrey Pines Gliderport is one of the rare spots in San Diego to experience a truly stunning sunset, and that was the main reason for our visit. Overall, our experience was truly amazing. The view was picturesque and something everyone should enjoy. The beauty of the nature felt surreal and hard to explain. If you are in San Diego and want to experience a truly unique sunset, then Torrey Pines Gliderport is the perfect spot. Bring a blanket and watch the sky transform!

Paragliding in SanDiego
Shayla S.

I came here by myself and was my very first time ever! Such a cool place with a nice view unfortunately I came here when it was cloudy but it was still totally worth it! I do have to say my instructor was not as I guess fun?.. I got to see others enjoy their time paragliding and their instructors looked more into what they were doing but mines was pretty serious. I travelled alone to SanDiego to explore new place by myself so I wanted to have memorable fun moments. But to paraglide was fun as it is just the time up there with him was kinda awkward and bland felt like he just wanted to finish up his time pretty quick.

Sitting with our dogs under the umbrella for shade
Noemi S.

We went here to celebrate my pup nephews birthday! Our dogs had so much fun! We had a large bench and everyone was comfortable. They weather was awesome and the views are incredible. Our food was great and the staff was accommodating when we asked for beverages for our pups. Highly recommend for a nice day outing!

Caution signs
Helen K.

Incredible spot to take para glider or hang glider lessons . Plenty of parking. Unfortunately their was no wind when we were there but we will be back on a windy day. Great spot to watch the sunsets. Area is well marked to keep spectators and gliders safe.

Mariam R.

Beautiful place to just hang out or hike. Plenty of off road parking and the cafe is a plus. Will definitely try their cafe next time.

mare r.

We stumbled upon this place as we drove down the coast and shore toward La Jolla. What a treat of a stop! There was plenty of free parking and we mosied on over to explore the port. They had a great bar and snack bar to buy drinks and treats as you watched all of the gliders taking off, flying around and landing. They also had rentals so you could try this out yourself complete with a guide to take you. Very very cool! So whether you're gliding or just stopping by to watch, I highly recommend a visit to the Torrey Pines glider port!

Vince H.

Such a cool place to visit !! We stopped by and were in awe at the beautiful scenic views of the ocean and cliffs, sprinkled by paragliders in the sky floating peacefully along. There is a little cafe at the launch site too so you can grab a bite while taking in the views. We were there to also hike the path down to the beach (warning, a portion of which is nude). There is a stair path down to the beach, but that's no fun is it!? So we went down the cliff through a slightly more difficult path along the rocks and traversed through a narrow passing which was absolutely beautiful. Take extra caution going on this hike after it rains though, and some locals did say that water erosion has had a considerable impact on the path so be careful! The day we went was gorgeous and it felt absolutely worthwhile to dip your toes in the refreshing ocean after the short hike.

Black's Beach
Jeremy S.

We visited only briefly to take in the scenic views at the Torrey Pines Gliderport. The dirt parking lot here is fairly big but rocky and uneven. The sky was cloudy, but the view was still beautiful. While we were there, no one was paragliding at the time. We also didn't walk down the steep trail toward Black's Beach. There were a few benches to sit down and enjoy the views. There was the Cliff Hanger Cafe selling brunch dishes, but we weren't hungry yet. I'd definitely want to visit again during a clear and sunny day to watch and take pictures of the paragliders. The food from the cafe also sounded good and had reasonable prices.

Sparkling Rose with a beautiful backdrop
Amy M.

Great spot for a lunch break, or sunset!! Food was delicious and staff was friendly when taking your order but the chef was a little flustered that day.....all and all great experience!

Daniel M.

Awesome experience. Felt safe and in good hands for this tandem flight. Great scenic views and learned about places there seen and other sights to check out.

Cela G.

I lovedddddd this place. It does get chilly so I'd recommend a light sweater. When you're driving up there is parking along the street but there are two different free parking lots located closer. One of which is a little bumpy so if you have a low car I'd be cautious. They have a trail you can take and suited for young kids and doggos or even strollers. They do have a bar with hot and cold beverages and of course beer!! Didn't have their food but a lot of ppl were devouring the sandwiches. They have a huge seating area and even a grassy area. You're also able to hitch a ride and fly above for about 200 bucks I believe.

Beer with a View
Joshua A.

Due to the area, expect to bring a hoodie. The place is extremely busy. You will probably great entertainment as well watch the people glide through the sky! The breakfast burrito, margarita pizza, and beer on tap was great. I see myself visiting this spot again if I'm in the area. This is amazing spot to chill and hangout.

Glider in sunset
Glenn A.

Pretty awesome prototypically California experience here at the Torrey Pines glider port. I'm not brave enough to strap in and push off but it was pretty awesome to watch others do so while sipping a beer and watching the sunset on my last day in SD.

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3 months ago

Great experience Plenty of parking good food at a reasonable price. Definitely will return

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Ask the Community - Torrey Pines Gliderport

Hi. I tried to email but it won't go through. What is your working email?

Are flyers allowed to bring their own go pro for the ride?

Yes no problem Thankyou… Read more

How long is the typical wait time here?

Hi, it all depends on the day. Typically on a week day it is less busy so you may only have a 20 minute wait if that. On a weekend it can get busier, sometimes you may have to wait an hour but it is a lovely spot to hang out and there is a cafe… Read more

Is it one person only for each or two people available?

Hi Hu, It is only one person per instructor. We can't fit more than one.

Is reservation required for the tandem paragliding?

No. Just call ahead to make sure the winds are good for flight and then show up. It's first come, first served.

Do we tip the pilots and what amount is appropriate?

I tipped - as I though my instructor was very good and kept me in the air about 35 minutes. 10% tip would be $17.50, I gave him $20. My guess is anything is appreciated, perhaps $10 or $20?

Is it possible to pay to jump?

Hi Livia, Thank you for inquiring about flying with us. We do offer instructional tandem flights,… Read more

Heading here today is it ok to bring the dog? Got my answer TAKING MY BABY ❤❤❤❤????????

Yes!!!! There's a "mascot " dog running there- belonging to a worker there. So cute! Not sure about the beach below the hike tho....

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Review Highlights - Torrey Pines Gliderport

They had to hammer pikes into the rocks, and literally Belay down the cliff to retrieve my phone and cards.

Mentioned in 77 reviews

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Torrey Pines Gliderport - hanggliding - Updated May 2026

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