Tourmaline Surf Park Coastal Resilience Project: Pacific Beach's Hybrid Nature-Based Solution Enters 15% Design Phase

With $208 to $370 million worth of public coastal assets at risk by 2050 and sea levels rising five to 14 times faster this century than the last, San Diego is pioneering an approach that combines engineering strength with ecological vitality. For Pacific Beach homeowners, particularly those in the Tourmaline area and along the coast from Bird Rock to La Jolla, this project offers more than storm protection—it provides a blueprint for implementing nature-based erosion control on residential properties.

What is a Hybrid Nature-Based Solution? Technical Breakdown

Unlike traditional "gray infrastructure" (concrete seawalls and riprap revetments) or pure "green infrastructure" (beach nourishment and dune restoration), hybrid nature-based solutions combine the best of both approaches. At Tourmaline, the existing riprap will be buried to provide a structural core—maintaining wave attenuation capacity during severe storms—while the surface layer transforms into a dynamic, living system.

According to coastal engineering research, hybrid methods utilize reinforced dunes, vegetated revetments, and living breakwaters, combining the strength of hard structures with the adaptability of natural systems. For hybrid nature-based solutions, coastal protection is provided by a coastal habitat in combination with a hard defense located either to the landward or seaward side of the natural habitat.

The Cardiff State Beach Living Shoreline Project in Encinitas, completed in May 2019, provides a successful local precedent. This novel hybrid nature-based dune structure spans approximately 2,900 linear feet of shoreline along Highway 101, combining vegetation, sand, cobble, and buried riprap to protect the critical transportation artery from undermining and frequent flooding.

Key advantages of hybrid systems include:

• Storm resilience: The buried structural core provides protection during extreme events when vegetation alone would be insufficient
• Ecosystem services: Native plantings filter stormwater runoff, create habitat, and support biodiversity
• Adaptive capacity: Living systems can respond to changing conditions, growing and evolving over time
• Aesthetic integration: Vegetated dunes blend seamlessly into the coastal landscape, unlike stark concrete walls
• Multiple benefits: Wave attenuation, sediment retention, habitat creation, and recreational value in a single system

The Tourmaline Design: Converting Riprap to Living Dunes

Tourmaline's current shoreline protection consists of riprap—large rocks placed to absorb wave energy and prevent erosion. While functional, this gray infrastructure provides limited ecological value and creates a static, hardened coastline. The proposed transformation will bury this riprap to create a stable foundation, then top it with a carefully engineered mix of sand and cobble.

According to the City of San Diego's project specifications, the sand and cobble dune will be vegetated with native plantings to provide ecological benefits through introduction of rare plant species and potential habitat for various avian species. Enhanced seating and viewing areas will be integrated into the dune structure, creating public amenity spaces that didn't exist with the previous riprap configuration.

This approach creates a three-layer system:

1. Structural foundation: Buried riprap provides core stability and extreme storm protection
2. Dynamic surface: Sand and cobble create a beach-like interface that can shift and respond to wave action while maintaining overall integrity
3. Vegetative layer: Deep-rooted native plants stabilize sediment through root systems while providing habitat and filtering functions

Unlike static riprap, which reflects wave energy and can accelerate erosion at adjacent properties, vegetated hybrid dunes absorb and dissipate wave energy more gradually. The native vegetation limits aeolian (wind-blown) sediment transport, keeping sand in place during dry periods while allowing the system to flex during storms.

Phase 2 Timeline and Public Engagement Opportunities

Tourmaline Surf Park is one of four sites advancing to Phase 2 implementation, alongside Ocean Beach Dog Beach, Ocean Beach Beachfront (near the pier), and Sunset Cliffs. The Phase 2 timeline runs from September 2025 through January 2027, with specific deliverables that will shape the final project design.

What "15% Design Development" Means

In infrastructure projects, design phases progress from conceptual (10%) to preliminary (30%) to final (100%). The 15% design milestone represents the transition from broad concepts to site-specific technical planning. Phase 2 deliverables include:

• Site surveys and geotechnical analysis: Understanding soil composition, groundwater levels, and structural conditions
• Technical studies: Wave modeling, sediment transport analysis, and ecological assessments
• CEQA environmental analysis: California Environmental Quality Act review examining potential impacts and mitigation measures
• Preliminary engineering drawings: Initial plans showing layout, dimensions, and construction sequencing
• Cost estimation refinement: Moving from conceptual budgets to detailed cost projections
• Stakeholder engagement: Community workshops and input sessions

The City has indicated that questions can be directed to ClimateResilientSD@sandiego.gov, and interested community members can sign up for project newsletters on the Climate Resilient SD website.

Funding Sources and Next Phases

The Coastal Resilience Master Plan has been financed through grants from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the California State Coastal Conservancy. These grants funded plan development, environmental analysis, and community engagement through Phase 2. The City will seek additional grant funding for the engineering, design, permitting, and construction phases that follow the 15% design milestone.

Environmental Benefits: Rare Species and Avian Habitat Restoration

One of the most compelling aspects of the Tourmaline project is its potential to restore habitat for threatened and endangered coastal species. San Diego County is a biodiversity hotspot, supporting over 300 threatened and endangered species—more federally protected animals than any other state and second only to Hawaii in protected plants.

Avian Habitat: California Least Tern and Western Snowy Plover

The California least tern (Sternula antillarum browni) was one of the first species officially listed under the Endangered Species Act in 1973. At less than nine inches from beak to tail, these tiny migratory seabirds rely on coastal dunes to nest—habitat that has become increasingly scarce along our developed coast. San Diego County supports 60 percent of the breeding population of this bird at 12 sites, including the Tijuana Estuary, Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, Mission Bay, and coastal lagoons.

The western snowy plover, listed as threatened on March 5, 1993, nests and roosts primarily above the high tide line on coastal beaches, utilizing sand-spits, dune-backed beaches, and sparsely vegetated dunes.

Rare Coastal Plant Species

Native coastal dune habitats are limited throughout San Diego County. The Tourmaline project's introduction of rare plant species could include locally native varieties such as:

• California encelia (Encelia californica): Fast-growing, drought-tolerant, excellent for slopes and erosion control, tolerates seaside conditions
• Giant coreopsis (Leptosyne gigantea): Also known as sea dahlia, provides striking visual appeal
• Coastal morning glory (Calystegia macrostegia ssp. cyclostegia): Spreads through dune systems, binding sand
• Lemonade berry (Rhus integrifolia): Salt-tolerant evergreen shrub
• Coastal saltbush (Atriplex species): Highly adapted to saline conditions, provides erosion control

These native plantings provide multiple functions: their deep root systems stabilize sand and prevent erosion, they tolerate burial by blowing sand and salt spray, and they support native pollinators and wildlife.

Property Value Impacts for Tourmaline Area Homeowners

Research on coastal resilience projects suggests generally positive impacts on nearby property values, though with important nuances. Studies from North Carolina indicate that beach nourishment projects increase coastal property prices, with research showing that beach width positively influences values of properties located within 633 feet of the shoreline. Properties with uninterrupted ocean views can attract price premiums between 25 and nearly 100 percent.

For Tourmaline area homeowners, specific value impacts may include:

Positive factors:

• Enhanced public amenity with improved seating and coastal access
• Reduced erosion risk providing long-term property protection
• Visual improvement over stark riprap
• Demonstration of municipal commitment to coastal protection
• Potential attraction of environmentally conscious buyers

Considerations during construction:

• Temporary parking and access constraints during construction phase
• Short-term disruption from equipment and activity

Residential Applications: Can Pacific Beach Homeowners Build Living Shorelines?

For Pacific Beach homeowners interested in implementing nature-based coastal protection on their properties, the regulatory pathway involves navigating California Coastal Commission requirements and local permitting processes.

Coastal Development Permit Requirements

Development within the coastal zone generally requires a coastal development permit (CDP) issued by either the California Coastal Commission or local government. After the Commission certifies a Local Coastal Program (LCP), most CDP authority is delegated to cities and counties, so San Diego would review most applications.

Specific CDP requirements apply to:

• Projects located between the sea and the first through public road paralleling the sea
• Projects within 300 feet of the inland extent of any beach or mean high tide line where there is no beach
• Projects within 300 feet of the top of the seaward face of any coastal bluff (whichever distance is greater)

Native Plant Species for Pacific Beach Coastal Erosion Control

For Pacific Beach homeowners looking to implement coastal landscaping for erosion control, selecting appropriate native species is critical. Plants must tolerate multiple stresses: burial by blowing sand, sand blasting, salt spray, salt water flooding, drought, heat, and low nutrient supply.

Recommended Native Species for Pacific Beach Coastal Conditions

Primary Dune Stabilizers:

1. Encelia californica (California Bush Sunflower)
   • Height/spread: 3 feet tall, 4 feet wide
   • Root system: Deep and spreading, excellent erosion control
   • Tolerance: Drought-tolerant, salt-spray tolerant, seaside conditions
   • Maintenance: Low; reseeds naturally and spreads quickly
2. Atriplex lentiformis (Coastal Saltbush/Quail Bush)
   • Height/spread: 3-6 feet tall, similar spread
   • Root system: Extensive, binds sandy soil
   • Tolerance: Highly salt-tolerant, drought-tolerant
   • Wildlife: Provides food and cover for quail and other birds
3. Artemisia californica (California Sagebrush)
   • Height/spread: 3-5 feet tall, 4-6 feet wide
   • Root system: Deep and stabilizing
   • Tolerance: Excellent drought tolerance, moderate salt tolerance
   • Erosion control: Proven effectiveness on slopes

Cost Comparison: Nature-Based vs Traditional Hardscape Protection

Cost is a primary consideration for homeowners evaluating coastal erosion control options. Based on 2025-2026 industry data, here's how living shoreline approaches compare to traditional hardscape:

Typical residential project costs:

• Small living shoreline (50 linear feet, 15 feet deep): $5,000 - $15,000 including plants, soil amendment, cobble toe, and installation
• Riprap installation (50 linear feet): $10,000 - $20,000 including rock, geotextile, and placement
• Concrete seawall (50 linear feet): $15,000 - $30,000+ including engineering, excavation, forming, and finishing

How Pacific Beach Builder Implements Coastal Resilience Techniques

As San Diego embraces nature-based coastal solutions, Pacific Beach Builder is positioning itself at the forefront of residential coastal resilience implementation. Our expertise bridges the gap between large-scale municipal projects like Tourmaline and practical applications for homeowners in Pacific Beach, La Jolla, Mission Beach, and Bird Rock.

Our Coastal Resilience Services

Native Coastal Landscaping Installation

We source region-appropriate native plant species from reputable nurseries, ensuring genetic stock adapted to Pacific Beach's specific coastal conditions. Our installations incorporate proper soil preparation, strategic planting patterns that accelerate coverage, and temporary irrigation systems that promote establishment before transitioning to natural rainfall dependency.

Hybrid Erosion Control Systems

For properties requiring more robust protection than vegetation alone, we design and install hybrid systems combining structural elements (buried rock, geotextiles, cobble toes) with vegetative layers. These systems mirror the approach being implemented at Tourmaline, scaled appropriately for residential applications.

Drainage System Design

Proper drainage is critical for coastal properties. We design systems that direct stormwater through vegetated bioswales and infiltration areas rather than concentrating flow that accelerates erosion. These nature-based drainage solutions improve water quality while managing runoff.

Salt-Air Resistant Construction

Coastal construction demands specialized materials and techniques. We utilize corrosion-resistant fasteners, appropriate sealants, and construction methods proven to withstand salt spray and marine conditions. This expertise applies to everything from deck construction to exterior remodeling projects.

Coastal Development Permit Navigation

Our familiarity with California Coastal Commission requirements and San Diego's Local Coastal Program helps streamline the permitting process. We work with coastal engineers, biologists, and planners to develop permit applications that align with regulatory preferences for nature-based solutions.

Learning from Tourmaline

The Tourmaline Surf Park project represents cutting-edge coastal engineering, and we're following its development closely. The technical innovations being implemented at municipal scale inform our residential work:

• Vegetated dune construction techniques translate directly to backyard slope stabilization
• Native species selection criteria guide our plant recommendations for coastal properties
• Hybrid system engineering principles inform our approach to properties requiring robust protection
• Public engagement processes model how we communicate with neighbors and regulatory agencies

As Tourmaline progresses through Phase 2 design development and eventual construction, we'll continue incorporating lessons learned into our residential projects. Our clients benefit from innovations developed for public infrastructure, adapted to the scale and budget of private properties.

FAQ: Tourmaline Project Timeline, Construction Access, and Residential Applications

When will construction begin on the Tourmaline Surf Park coastal resilience project?

Construction timing has not been finalized. The project is currently in Phase 2 (September 2025 through January 2027), which focuses on completing 15% design development, CEQA environmental analysis, and technical studies. After these phases conclude in January 2027, the project will advance through detailed engineering (30-60% design), permitting, final design (100%), and then construction. A realistic estimate would place construction start in 2028 at the earliest, though exact timing depends on funding availability and permitting timelines.

Will Tourmaline Surf Park be closed during construction?

Specific access plans during construction have not been announced. Based on similar coastal projects, it's likely that portions of the park will be closed during active work, but projects typically maintain some level of public access. The City will develop detailed construction phasing plans as designs advance, balancing worker safety and public access. Community members can stay informed by signing up for project newsletters at ClimateResilientSD@sandiego.gov.

What is a hybrid nature-based solution and how does it differ from a seawall?

A hybrid nature-based solution combines structural engineering (buried riprap or other hard materials) with ecological elements (native vegetation, dynamic sand/cobble surfaces). Traditional seawalls are purely structural—concrete or rock walls that create a hard barrier between land and water. Hybrid solutions provide similar storm protection through their buried structural core, but the vegetated surface layer adds ecosystem benefits: habitat creation, water quality improvement, aesthetic integration, and adaptive capacity. The Cardiff State Beach Living Shoreline in Encinitas demonstrates this approach successfully.

Can I install native dune plantings on my Pacific Beach property for erosion control?

Yes, in most cases, though permit requirements depend on your property's location relative to the coast. Properties within 300 feet of the beach or coastal bluff typically require a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) from the City of San Diego (which has delegated authority from the California Coastal Commission). Simple landscaping with native plants may qualify for exemptions, but any structural elements (rock placement, grading, drainage modifications) generally trigger permit requirements. Contact the California Coastal Commission or San Diego Planning Department with your specific address for a determination. Pacific Beach Builder can help navigate this process.

How will the Tourmaline project affect nearby property values?

Research on coastal resilience projects generally shows positive impacts on nearby property values. Enhanced public amenities (the improved seating areas and coastal access), reduced erosion risk, and visual improvement over stark riprap typically increase property appeal. Studies show that beach enhancement increases values for properties within 633 feet of the shoreline, with ocean-view properties commanding premiums of 25-100%. Temporary construction impacts may cause short-term inconvenience, but long-term value trajectory favors enhancement as climate-resilient coastal locations become increasingly desirable.

What rare species will benefit from the Tourmaline habitat restoration?

The project's vegetated dunes could provide habitat for several threatened and endangered species. The California least tern, listed as endangered in 1973, relies on coastal dunes for nesting—San Diego County supports 60% of the breeding population. The western snowy plover, listed as threatened in 1993, uses dune-backed beaches and sparsely vegetated dunes for nesting and roosting. Native plant species may include California encelia, giant coreopsis, coastal morning glory, lemonade berry, and coastal saltbush—all adapted to harsh coastal conditions and supporting native pollinators and wildlife.

Do I need a Coastal Development Permit to add native coastal vegetation to my yard?

It depends on your property location and the scope of work. Properties within the coastal zone (roughly defined as the area between the sea and the first through public road, or within 300 feet of the beach/bluff) are subject to CDP requirements. However, many jurisdictions provide exemptions for routine landscaping that doesn't involve grading, structure placement, or significant vegetation removal. Simple planting of native species in existing landscaped areas may be exempt, while creating new vegetated dunes with grading and drainage work would likely require a permit. Best practice: contact local planning staff before starting work to confirm requirements for your specific project.

How much does residential nature-based coastal erosion control cost?

Costs vary widely based on property size, slope, and protection needs. A small living shoreline (50 linear feet, 15 feet deep) typically costs $5,000-$15,000 including native plants, soil preparation, cobble toe, and professional installation. This compares favorably to riprap ($10,000-$20,000 for 50 feet) or concrete seawalls ($15,000-$30,000+ for 50 feet). Additional costs include permitting ($500-$3,000), engineering/design ($2,000-$10,000), and potentially biological surveys ($1,000-$5,000). While initial costs may be comparable to traditional approaches, nature-based solutions often have lower long-term maintenance costs and provide additional ecosystem service benefits.

Will the Tourmaline project stop beach erosion or just slow it down?

The project is designed to enhance resilience to sea level rise and storm events rather than completely 'stop' natural coastal processes. The hybrid nature-based approach allows some flexibility and dynamic response—the sand and cobble surface will shift during storms while the buried riprap core prevents catastrophic erosion. This is actually a strength: systems that allow some movement tend to be more durable than rigid structures that eventually fail catastrophically. The goal is to protect coastal access and nearby infrastructure while maintaining beach character and ecosystem functions, adapting to changing conditions over time rather than fighting them with static barriers.

How can Pacific Beach residents provide input on the Tourmaline design?

The City of San Diego will conduct public workshops and engagement sessions during the Phase 2 design development process (September 2025-January 2027). Specific dates have not been announced yet. Interested residents can sign up for project newsletters and updates by contacting ClimateResilientSD@sandiego.gov or visiting the Climate Resilient SD website. Input during the 15% design phase is particularly valuable, as this is when major design decisions are still flexible. Community feedback helps shape details like access points, seating configurations, and vegetation selection.

What native plants work best for coastal erosion control in Pacific Beach?

The most effective native plants combine salt tolerance, drought tolerance, deep root systems, and ability to withstand sand burial. Top performers include: Encelia californica (California Bush Sunflower)—fast-growing, reseeds readily, 3x4 feet; Atriplex lentiformis (Coastal Saltbush)—extremely salt-tolerant, extensive roots, 3-6 feet; Artemisia californica (California Sagebrush)—proven slope stabilizer, aromatic, 3-5 feet; Rhus integrifolia (Lemonade Berry)—woody structure, evergreen, 6-10 feet; and Calystegia macrostegia (Coast Morning Glory)—trailing vine that binds sand. Source plants from local native nurseries using regional genetic stock. Fall planting (October-December) allows establishment during winter rains. Dense spacing (2-3 feet apart) accelerates coverage and erosion control.

Can residential properties implement the same hybrid approach as Tourmaline?

Yes, but feasibility depends on site-specific conditions. Residential hybrid living shorelines work best on properties with gentle slopes, moderate wave energy, adequate space for vegetated buffer zones (10-30 feet deep), and suitable soil (sand/sandy loam). Steep coastal bluffs may require more structural support than vegetation can provide. The approach scales down appropriately—instead of burying large riprap, residential projects might use smaller cobble or geotextile reinforcement beneath vegetated layers. Professional assessment by a coastal engineer and landscape architect specializing in native vegetation is essential. Pacific Beach Builder can coordinate these specialists and design hybrid systems appropriate for residential scale and budget.

Conclusion: A New Era of Coastal Resilience in Pacific Beach

The Tourmaline Surf Park coastal resilience project represents more than infrastructure investment—it signals a fundamental shift in how San Diego approaches coastal protection. By combining engineering strength with ecological vitality, hybrid nature-based solutions demonstrate that we don't have to choose between protecting communities and protecting nature. We can do both.

For Pacific Beach homeowners, the Tourmaline project offers valuable lessons and inspiration. Whether you're facing erosion challenges on a coastal property, planning a remodel with climate adaptation in mind, or simply interested in native landscaping that supports local ecosystems, the principles being implemented at Tourmaline scale to residential applications.

As Phase 2 design development progresses through January 2027 and beyond, Pacific Beach Builder remains committed to translating these innovations into practical solutions for our clients. Our expertise in native coastal plantings, hybrid erosion control systems, and coastal permitting positions us to help homeowners implement resilience measures that protect property while enhancing the coastal environment we all cherish.

The coast is changing. The question isn't whether to adapt, but how. Tourmaline Surf Park is showing the way forward—and we're here to help you follow that path.

Ready to explore coastal resilience options for your Pacific Beach property? Contact Pacific Beach Builder for a consultation on native landscaping, erosion control, and climate-adaptive design. Our expertise in nature-based solutions and coastal permitting helps you protect your investment while supporting the coastal ecosystem.