Where the Views Take Your Breath Away and Time Stands Still for a Moment
We arrived right before noon to see what looked like an over-cast sky and overcrowded dirt parking lots. Don't let that deter you! Take advantage of the most thrilling views of our Pacific Ocean and get to know the historical sites of San Diego. Bring a sweater or jacket it can get pretty windy and you won't want the cold to ruin your experience. You can bring a sack lunch or have a romantic picnic as you don't have to buy the cafe food. There is plenty of seating and space to invite your friends or plan a date!
Did you know that Torrey Pines Gliderport is A National Landmark of Soaring?!?!
Hitting the list at #315 for San Diego Historical Sites, a Model Aviation Landmark (#1 in the Nation), and listed on the California Register of Historic Places! Gliderport is considered by glider enthusiasts to be the "Kitty Hawk of the West".

Tag-lining their site, "America's most popular coastal soaring site"! The spectacular ocean views and the thought of ascending off the side of the mountain above the ocean as your sail glides you high above La Jolla is intriguing...yet frightening. Scared of heights myself, I can't really say that this is something I would personally embark on. Although, I admire anyone that does and look forward to Marc's air travel, I can live vicariously through him!




Today I am sharing our experience of Torrey Pines Gliderport and The Cliffhanger Cafe. You can even enjoy some Foosball and a game of pool as if the view and paragliding isn't enough. 
Calling all Daredevils, Adventurists, Risk-Takers and Show-Offs
A soaring site established in 1928, Torrey Pines Gliderport is the home to hang gliding, paragliding, radio-controlled model sailplanes and full-scale man-carrying sailplanes. I was surprised to see that all of those elements were present during our visit. We had the pleasure in seeing about 20 launches in the 35 minutes we were there. Based on our experience I would have to say that this is a popular place!

It takes a brave soul to embark on this adventure where you can fly high above the ocean blue and get a birds eye view of Torrey Pines Golf Course and stunning La Jolla Mansions. Gliderport offers tandem flights for both paragliding and hang gliding. 
Today we witnessed paragliding and for $150 you too can experience the soaring for yourself. Peak times to fly are 12p-3p and you can call ahead for wind conditions. After 10 minutes of paperwork and signing your life away (you know the legal waiver)  you are introduced to your pilot for basic ground instruction. It won't be long until you are hopping along the mountain side like a kangaroo when suddenly there is nothing but air below your feet and the winds take your sail further out from the cliff side. 

 

For all of the details on flying at Torrey Pines Gliderport check out how it works here. You might be surprised all of the other things you can do: Paragliding School, Hang Gliding Classes, Rating and Skill Clinics and Paramotor Classes.
The Cliffhanger Cafe
There are so many wonderful places to eat in La Jolla and this one tops the list as a unique dining experience. Offering gourmet sandwiches and soups, with a variety of snacks and drinks we decided on the special of the day a tri-tip sandwich. 



If sandwiches aren't your fancy then you can also bring your own picnic lunch or an ice cooler! While we sat and ate I overheard an interesting story. In a nutshell, "when the parasailers can't always get enough current to bring their landing back up to the top of the cliffs they are forced to pack their sails in their backpacks and hike up". We witnessed both landings and hikers, check it out:



The views are breath taking, the experience is a one-of-a-kind and possibilities of this site are endless. If you haven't observed this San Diego Historical Site yet then make sure to get here soon!

If you like the million dollar homes you see while on your sail experience and are looking to purchase a home in La Jolla then contact us today.