Parking is $15 and there is a self-service machine where you can pay for your day use pass.

As an alternate, you can also park at South Ponto day use parking, and do this route in reverse.

Pass through this gate to enter the north end of the campground.

A typical campground, with fire ring and picnic table. There are no electrical hookups.

There are two rows of campsites: The one along the top of the bluff has the prime ocean views.

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Bear right at this paved path that leads to the steps down to the beach.

Note that during high tide, the beach may become inaccessible. Check the tide calendar and use common sense before attempting to hike down the beach.

At the top of the stairs there is information about the coastal bluffs that line most of South Carlsbad State Beach.

Be aware that these bluffs are constantly shifting and eroding, and can be dangerous. Stay on marked paths, trails and access stairs.

When you reach the beach, you'll head left (south).

Lifeguard stations dot the beaches, although they are only manned during the busier summer months.

You'll see a number of access points from the bluffs to the beach. Keep track of which one you use, because they begin to look the same.

At low tide, the beach is broad and flat, making a great surface for beach combing, hiking or running.

The only motorized vehicles permitted on the beach belong to the lifeguards, who patrol the beach in a Jeep like this.

The outlet to the Bautiquitos Lagoon is our turn around point.

The South Ponto day use parking is just beyond the outlet across the bridge.

This ramp ascends the bluff and enters the campground area. The campground road is shared with bikes, cars and RVs, so exercise caution walking here.

The camp store sells food and camp supplies. It is open seasonally (primarily in the busy summer months).