Snorkel with Sea Lions, Explore La Jolla Cove
La Jolla
Tips on renting in La Jolla
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
In La Jolla, the sun-drenched shores of the Pacific whisper secrets of adventure. As the light dances on the azure waves, scent trails of cedar and warm sand beckon explorers to embark on unforgettable water-based escapades. Start with a kayak tour from La Jolla Cove, where sea caves echo with the playful splashes of sea lions and vibrant schools of fish dart beneath your paddle.
After a day of exploring, refuel at The Cottage, a charming café known for its fresh, local ingredients and inviting ambiance. For a taste of La Jolla’s cultural flair, meander through the eclectic shops at the Village, where artisan-made jewelry and handcrafted goods await.
Autumn brings the annual La Jolla Music Society’s Concerts by the Sea, a perfect blend of melody and backdrop, while the wildflower hikes on the Torrey Pines State Reserve offer a dazzling display of coastal flora.
Insider tip: pack a picnic and settle at Windansea Beach for an evening of breathtaking sunsets—the perfect way to embrace the captivating magic of La Jolla.
Nearby cities
Solana Beach
Discover Solana Beach, CA: charming coastal community with scenic ocean views, beautiful beaches, and vibrant arts scene. Find your perfect vacation rental on Lake.com.
San Diego
Discover San Diego's stunning beaches, luxurious vacation homes, and vibrant attractions – find your perfect getaway in California's sun-kissed paradise on Lake.com.
Camp Pendleton South
Discover Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, a vast coastal stronghold in Southern California, offering a mix of military history, scenic coastline, and nearby vacation rentals.
Lake Elsinore
Discover Lake Elsinore, California, where skydiving, baseball, and lake adventures meet. Explore homes, hotels, and activities for your perfect getaway on Lake.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what La Jolla has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
To visit La Jolla Cove, start your day early to avoid the crowds and take advantage of the calm summer surf, ideal for swimmers, snorkelers, and scuba divers. Explore the cove within the San Diego La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve, where water visibility can exceed 30 feet, and marvel at the abundant marine life and sea lions at the nearby La Jolla Children’s Pool. After a morning of aquatic activities, stroll along the pleasant walking paths and enjoy the scenic views of the sandstone cliffs, making sure to respect the protected wildlife and environment.
-
For a seamless boat-launching experience in La Jolla Shores, head to the beachfront boat launch, the only one of its kind within San Diego City limits. Located at the foot of Avenida de la Playa, approximately 300 yards south of the lifeguard station, this unimproved launch allows vehicles to drive onto the sand at a slow 5 miles per hour, with four-wheel drive highly recommended. This spot is ideal for launching small vessels directly into the surf.
-
Dogs are welcome on several hiking trails in La Jolla, offering a mix of scenic coastal views and varied terrain. The La Jolla Coastal Trail, a 4-mile round trip, provides a leisurely hike with breathtaking ocean views, while the Rose Canyon Bicycle Path and Fay Avenue Bike Path offer easier, more leisurely routes. For a more dramatic experience, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is another dog-friendly option, though be mindful of the trails’ moderate to challenging terrain.
