Let's talk about one of California's worst-kept secrets: Black's Beach. Tucked beneath the dramatic 300-foot sandstone cliffs of Torrey Pines in La Jolla, this isn't your typical San Diego beach day. There's no convenient parking lot, no snack bar, and definitely no boardwalk. What you will find is one of the largest clothing-optional beaches in the United States, spectacular scenery, powerful surf breaks, and, if you know where to look, a thriving gay section that's been a cherished gathering spot for decades.
But here's the thing: you've got to earn it. And that's exactly what makes it special.
The Trek Down (Yes, It's Actually a Hike)
First-timers always ask the same question: "How hard is it, really?" The answer depends on your route, but let's be honest, none of them are a casual stroll. Black's Beach sits at the base of steep cliffs, and getting down there requires either commitment or a very good friend with local knowledge.
The main access point is the Torrey Pines Gliderport trail, which snakes down the cliff face in a series of switchbacks. It's about a 20-minute descent on a good day, longer if you're stopping to catch your breath (or the view, both are spectacular). The path is uneven, sandy in places, and can be slippery after rain. Wear proper shoes. Seriously. Those cute flip-flops? Save them for the beach itself.
There's also a trail from Torrey Pines State Reserve (when it's open), and for the truly adventurous, you can hike north from La Jolla Shores Beach along the coastline, though this requires timing it right with low tide and being comfortable scrambling over some rocks.
The trek weeds out the casual beachgoers, which is exactly the point. By the time you reach the sand, you've joined a tribe of people who wanted to be there badly enough to work for it.
Finding the Gay Section: Go North, Young Man
Black's Beach stretches for about two miles, and not all of it is created equal, at least not for our purposes. The southern portion, managed by the City of San Diego, technically prohibits nudity (though enforcement is… let's say "relaxed"). The northern section, under California State Parks, is the official clothing-optional zone.
And within that northern stretch? Head further north, past the main crowd of naturist families and mixed groups, and you'll find the gay section, an unofficial but well-established area where queer men have been gathering for generations.
You'll know you're getting close when the rainbow-striped towels start outnumbering the floral prints. The vibe shifts. The energy changes. Suddenly, you're surrounded by your people, sunbathing, playing paddleball, reading, chatting, cruising, or just soaking up the California sun without a care (or a swimsuit) in the world.
What Makes Black's Beach Worth the Hike?
Let's be real: Southern California has plenty of beautiful beaches. So why trek down a cliff face to hang out naked with strangers? Here's why the gay section of Black's Beach has maintained its legendary status:
Freedom, pure and simple. There's something deeply liberating about being completely yourself, literally and figuratively, in a space that welcomes you. No judgment, no side-eyes, no worrying about how you look in a speedo. Just sun, surf, and skin.
The scenery is unreal. Those sandstone cliffs aren't just a barrier, they're a stunning natural amphitheater painted in shades of gold and copper. Gliders launch from the bluffs above, soaring on ocean thermals. Pods of dolphins often cruise past. On clear days, you can see all the way to Mexico. It's the kind of natural beauty that makes you understand why people write poetry about California.
The community. Black's Beach regulars are a special breed, welcoming, respectful, and surprisingly diverse. You'll find everyone from college students to retirees, locals who've been coming for 40 years and tourists ticking it off their bucket list. There's an unspoken etiquette that keeps the space comfortable for everyone.
Body positivity in action. When you're surrounded by bodies of every shape, size, age, and type, all just existing without shame, it rewires something in your brain. The gay community can be tough on body image, but spending a day at Black's Beach reminds you that there's no "beach body" requirement except having a body and going to the beach.
The Vibe: What to Expect
Let's set some expectations. Black's Beach isn't a circuit party, and it's not a cruising spot (though human nature being what it is, connections do happen). It's fundamentally a beach, a place to swim, sunbathe, and unwind.
That said, there's definitely a playful, flirtatious energy. Conversations strike up easily. A compliment on someone's book choice can turn into an hour-long chat. People are generally social and friendly without being pushy. The gay section tends to skew toward sun-worshipping and socializing rather than athletic beach activities, though you'll see some volleyball and surfing too.
The surf at Black's Beach is no joke, a submarine canyon funnels powerful swells to the shore, making it a premiere surf break. If you're not a strong swimmer, stay close to shore. The currents can be serious.
Practical Considerations (Because Someone Has to Say It)
What to bring: Water (lots of it, there are no facilities), sunscreen (ALL the sunscreen, places that don't usually see sun burn fast), a large towel or beach blanket, snacks, and something to carry trash out. Leave nothing behind except footprints.
Timing: Mornings tend to be foggier (classic marine layer), but also quieter. Midday and afternoon bring more sun and more people. Weekends are busier than weekdays, obviously. Summer offers the warmest weather, but the beach is accessible year-round.
The return trip: Remember that hike down? Yeah, now you're doing it uphill. Pace yourself. Bring water for the climb. Take breaks. Nobody's judging if you need to pause three times on the way up.
Respect the space: Photography is a huge no-no without explicit permission. Gawking is unwelcome. If someone wants privacy, respect it. The unspoken rules are actually pretty simple: be cool, be respectful, mind your own business unless invited to do otherwise.
Why It Matters
In an era of dating apps and digital connections, places like Black's Beach matter more than ever. They're physical spaces where the LGBTQ+ community can gather, be visible, and exist without apology. They're reminders that our history includes not just protest and politics, but also joy, freedom, and the simple pleasure of sunshine on skin.
Black's Beach has been a gathering spot for gay men since the 1970s, when it briefly held the distinction of being the only legal public nude beach in the country. Though the legal landscape has shifted, the tradition continues. That continuity: that living history: is precious.
Is the hike a pain? Sure. Is the climb back up a workout? Absolutely. Will you get sand in places sand shouldn't go? Almost certainly. But that's part of the initiation, part of what makes it an experience rather than just another beach day.
When you finally make it back to the top, sweaty and sandy and sun-drunk, you'll already be planning your next visit. Because Black's Beach isn't just about nudity or scenery: it's about claiming space, building community, and remembering that sometimes the best things in life require a little effort to reach.
And honestly? That view alone is worth every step.
Ready to explore more incredible LGBTQ+ destinations and stories? Check out Readwithpride.com for gay romance books, MM romance novels, and queer fiction that celebrates our community in all its beautiful diversity.
Connect with Read with Pride:
- Facebook: Read with Pride
- Instagram: @read.withpride
- X/Twitter: @Read_With_Pride
- Website: Readwithpride.com
#BlacksBeach #GayNudistBeach #LGBTQTravel #GayTravel #NudistBeach #SanDiego #LaJolla #ClothingOptional #GayBeach #QueerTravel #LGBTQDestinations #MMRomance #GayRomanceBooks #ReadWithPride #GayFiction #LGBTQBooks #QueerLit #GayLoveStories #NaturistBeach #CaliforniaBeaches #TorreyPines #GayLifestyle #LGBTQCommunity #BodyPositivity #GayPride #QueerCommunity
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.