The Scripps Coastal Reserve can be visited in several ways.

General public

• The intertidal and submarine portion of the Reserve are open to the public at all times although potential users should check tide conditions in advance to ensure it is possible to access this area safely.  We ask that anyone conducting research or organized educational activities go through the NRS Reserve Application Management System (RAMS) to help us track all the ways that our reserves support research and education.
• The mesa-top of the Reserve ("knoll") can be visited by the public during one of our docent-led tours or weekly weeding events (check our calendar of events for the latest schedule). The Reserve is surrounded by developed areas, so environmental awareness is essential for protecting the rare and sensitive habitats and species.
• Please note, there is no access to the beach from the mesa-top of the Scripps Coastal Reserve.  Local beach pedestrian access is available via Blacks Beach Way (0.5 mi north of the mesa), the Coastal Meander Trail on the campus of Scripps Institution of Oceanography, and trails at the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.

Researchers, Instructors, or other formal research/educational use

• Researchers and University-level instructors interested in using the Reserve for education, research, or outreach can submit a visit request through the NRS Reserve Application Management System (RAMS). The Reserve is not limited to use by UC San Diego affiliates and may also be used to support research and education activities by K-12 classes, community groups, and qualified non-profit organizations.

To view the amenities and rates available for reservation at Scripps Coastal Reserve, please visit our RAMS amenities page.

The upland area, commonly referred to as the "Mesa" or “Knoll,” includes a mesa 400 feet above the beach, and Black’s Canyon, with a paved, gated road with pedestrian access to Black’s Beach, and Sumner Canyon, which is privately owned.   

Emergency Information

For a Life-Threatening Emergency: Call 911 immediately.

Reserve Director Contact: Clarissa Rodriguez, 858-229-4677

Nearest Hospital ER: Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla 

• 9888 Genesee Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
• ER Phone: 858-626-4123
• Drive Time from Reserve Entrance: ~ 10 minutes

Personal Safety

Scripps Coastal Reserve is an undeveloped, natural plot of land that has some potential risks to visitors. To decrease risk, please follow these recommendations and read the following potential hazards. 

• Scripps Coastal daily temperatures and UV index can get high, especially in the summertime. Always carry at minimum 2-4 liters of water per person per day. Take multiple breaks in the shade and do not overexert yourself. 
• Do not hike alone. Bringing a field partner is good for both fieldwork and emergencies. 
• Carry a cell phone or a means of contact in case of an emergency. Cell service can be spotty farther into the reserve. 

Potential Hazards

Scripps Coastal Reserve is home to the Red Diamond Rattlesnake, Pacific Rattlesnake, and the Pacific Garter Snake. 

Prevention: Be aware of your surroundings and where you step. Use a flashlight at night.

Response: If encountered, back away slowly (give at least 6-10 feet of space). Never attempt to capture, poke, or relocate a snake. Notify staff if located near buildings.

Emergency: If bitten, remain calm and restrict movement. Mark the location and time of bite. Call 911/ arrange emergency transport. DO NOT use tourniquets, snakebite kits, ice, or incision. DO NOT try to capture the snake. 

Ticks

Ticks live on tall grasses and brush and are often found in wooded areas. Some ticks can spread germs that make people sick. 

Prevention: Best to wear both a light-colored long-sleeved shirt and long pants, tucking them into closed-toed hiking shoes. The light colored clothing allows you to spot the ticks more easily. A repellent such as DEET or picaridin can also be used. Complete a thorough tick check before and after leaving the reserve - for more information on tick checks.

Response: If found attached to your skin, remove immediately if safely possible. Use fine-tipped tweezers to remove the tick by holding the tick firmly at a point close to the skin and pulling the tick away steadily. Dispose of the tick properly and clean the area and your hands with soap and water. For more detailed steps: CDC Tick Removal Steps.

Emergency: Only see a doctor if you develop a rash or fever within several weeks of tick removal. 

Wildlife

Scripps Coastal Reserve is home to bobcats, coyotes, foxes, rodents, as well as many other wildlife. Most wild animals naturally avoid or fear humans.

Prevention: Keep your distance from any wildlife and secure food or trash to limit 

Response: If you encounter wildlife, back away slowly. Make yourself look bigger by waving your arms and making loud noises - yell, clap, blow a whistle.

Emergency: If you make contact, fight back. Then call 911 and San Diego Animal Control - 619-236-2341

Heat Exhaustion/ Heatstroke

Heat exhaustion or overheating is common in San Diego, especially in the summer months, caused by the loss of salt and water from heavy sweating. 

Prevention: Drink plenty of fluids, use sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat, take breaks in shaded areas or use a wet rag to cool down, and check medications for any increased risk. 

Response: Heat exhaustion can present with heavy sweating, faintness, fatigue, nausea, headaches, and cool, moist skin when in the heat. 

Emergency: If heat exhaustion isn't treated, it can lead to heatstroke. If your core body temperature reaches 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, seek immediate medical attention. 

Scripps Coastal Reserve Map 

Scripps Coastal State Marine Conservation Area Map

• Birch Aquarium 
• Scripps Institution of Oceanography 
• Marine Protected Areas (CA Fish & Wildlife)
• Species List
• Scripps Coastal Reserve iNaturalist Project
• Scripps Coastal Reserve Biodiversity Trail