Welcome to La Jolla, the jewel of San Diego, one of California’s nicest shorelines. La Jolla is an expensive zip code to live in and visiting La Jolla will make your jaw drop.
La Jolla is the home to diverse marine animals, including seals and sea lions at the Children’s Pool, where you can even watch them play from your chair on the beach! It is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in San Diego.
Here are some top things to do while you’re visiting La Jolla…
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Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial
Located high above La Jolla, the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial offers not only breathtaking panoramic views of San Diego but also a solemn space to reflect and honor the courage of those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
This poignant landmark stands as a testament to the sacrifices made for freedom, with its massive cross and hundreds of plaques telling the stories of veterans from the Revolutionary War to the present day. A visit here is a deeply moving experience, allowing one to traverse through history, feel the weight of heroism, and appreciate the peace that surrounds this hallowed ground.
Whether you come for the history, the views, or a moment of quiet contemplation, Mt. Soledad is a profound reminder of the price of liberty and a must-visit spot in La Jolla for its unique blend of natural beauty and national pride.
Visit La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove is the crown jewel of the San Diego coastline, a picturesque enclave that offers more than just a stunning backdrop for your next instagram story. The cove is sanctuary for marine life – which you can typically smell, especially in the summer.
The Cove is not only a haven for snorkelers and scuba divers seeking to explore its underwater marvels but also a peaceful retreat for those looking to soak in the panoramic views from the shore. Its protected status ensures the water is as clean as it is clear, making it one of the safest and most beautiful swimming spots in California.
Whether you’re here to dive into the deep blue, paddle around in a kayak, or simply enjoy a leisurely day under the sun, La Jolla Cove offers an unmatched blend of natural beauty and oceanic adventures.
The Children’s Pool
Located next to La Jolla Cove, this small beach is best known for its colony of seals and sea lions. You can watch these adorable animals from the shore or even get up close with a guided tour.
The Children’s Pool is a must-visit spot in La Jolla that tells a tale of conservation and controversy. Originally designed as a safe swimming area for children, protected by a seawall, it has become a favored resting ground for seals and sea lions, turning it into a fascinating wildlife viewing area.
Visitors flock here not just to bathe in the sun or enjoy the gentle waves, but to marvel at these marine mammals in their natural habitat, often seen lounging on the sand or playfully frolicking in the water. Whether you come with a camera in hand or simply to take in the serene views, The Children’s Pool is a poignant reminder of nature’s resilience and beauty, right in the heart of La Jolla.
Downtown La Jolla
Downtown La Jolla effortlessly captures the essence of coastal elegance, offering a blend of high-end shopping, culinary delights, and picturesque streetscapes that beckon visitors to explore and enjoy. As you meander through its heart, you’re greeted by an array of boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants that boast some of the finest cuisines in Southern California.
A visit to The Cave Store is an absolute must, where beyond its unique retail offerings, you’ll find an entrance to a hidden sea cave, offering an adventure as intriguing as the treasures found within the store itself. Downtown La Jolla isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience, inviting you to immerse yourself in the luxury, culture, and natural beauty of this beloved seaside community.
Explore La Jolla Shores
La Jolla Shores is a pristine haven for beach lovers, offering expansive sandy stretches and gentle waves perfect for a day of swimming, surfing, or simply soaking up the San Diego sun. Lined with charming cafes and eateries, it’s an ideal spot for those looking to dine with a view of the ocean’s endless horizon.
For the adventurers, the nearby hillsides present numerous hiking trails, inviting explorers to discover the natural beauty that envelops this coastal gem. La Jolla Shores isn’t just a beach; it’s a vibrant community where the sea’s tranquility meets the lively spirit of outdoor enthusiasts and foodies alike.
Visit the Birch Aquarium
Nestled atop a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Birch Aquarium at Scripps is a gateway to the wonders beneath the waves, offering an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the marine world. As part of the renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography, this vibrant aquarium brings the mysteries of the ocean to life through interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences.
Visitors can marvel at the dazzling array of sea life, from the shimmering schools of fish to the graceful movements of seahorses. The aquarium not only educates but also inspires conservation, inviting guests of all ages to engage with the ocean’s inhabitants in a way that’s both informative and intimate. Birch Aquarium is more than a visit; it’s an adventure into the heart of the ocean’s ecosystem.
Go tide pooling at Shell Beach
Shell Beach, tucked away in La Jolla, is a hidden treasure for those passionate about the natural world and the wonders it holds. As the tide recedes, it reveals a fascinating underwater ecosystem in the form of tide pools, each a microcosm teeming with life. Here, you can spend hours discovering the vibrant sea creatures that inhabit these natural aquariums, from the delicate starfish stretching its arms out to the sun, to the spiny urchins nestled among the rocks.
It’s a place where every visit is unique, offering a hands-on experience with the diverse and colorful marine life that calls these pools home. Shell Beach isn’t just a destination; it’s an invitation to explore and connect with the ocean’s hidden jewels.
Stroll along Prospect Street
Prospect Street is La Jolla’s heartbeat, where luxury meets laid-back vibes. Boutique windows sparkle with unique finds. Cafes buzz, offering cozy corners for coffee lovers. Art galleries open doors to worlds of color and imagination. Here, every step reveals something new.
It’s perfect for gift hunting or enjoying a leisurely walk. The street blends upscale shopping with the charm of seaside life. Prospect Street isn’t just a place to visit; it’s an experience, wrapping visitors in the warm embrace of La Jolla’s unique culture.
Enjoy a sunset at Windansea Beach
With its golden sands, magnificent cliffs, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Windansea is one of the best spots in La Jolla to enjoy a beautiful sunset.
Don’t miss a change to see the Windansea Surf Shack which is one of the oldest beach landmarks in San Diego. The shack is made of palm trees and was first built in 1945 by Woody Ekstrom, Fred Kenyon and Don Okey.
Salk Institute
Located in the heart of La Jolla, the Salk Institute is a world-renowned research facility that attracts scientists from all over the globe. With its state-of-the-art laboratories and innovative approaches to scientific research, it’s no surprise that this beautiful institute has been named one of San Diego County’s top attractions.
Whether you are a science buff or simply want to learn more about the cutting-edge research being conducted at the Salk Institute, be sure to plan a visit during your stay in La Jolla!
Torrey Pines Gliderport
If you love adventure and excitement, then Torrey Pines Gliderport is the place for you. This popular hang gliding spot allows visitors to soar high above the beaches and cliffs of La Jolla on a glider with an expert pilot. Whether you are a seasoned pro or have never flown before, this incredible experience will be one you will never forget.
Ellen Browning Scripps Park
Located right on the coast of La Jolla, Ellen Browning Scripps Park is one of the best places to relax and enjoy all that this beautiful seaside city has to offer. With its wide stretches of sandy beach, scenic views of the Pacific Ocean, and numerous hiking trails offering up amazing vantage points over the coastline, Ellen Browning Scripps Park is truly a hidden gem in La Jolla. So if you are looking for a peaceful place to unwind during your stay in this vibrant city, be sure to check out this beautiful park!
Ho Chi Minh Trail
Located just outside of La Jolla in San Diego County, the Ho Chi Minh Trail is one of the best places to go hiking and camping in Southern California. With its rugged terrain and stunning natural scenery, this trail offers up some truly amazing views of the local landscape. This trail is not for beginners and has a cliff with a steep dropoff.
Make sure you are wearing close-toe shoes with good grip.. but don’t be surprised to see a local surfer in flip-flops running past you. At the end of the trail, you will be on Black’s Beach, which is a nude beach! This is one of the most popular local beaches, so you won’t want to miss the opportunity to go for a swim in the Pacific Ocean and soak up some sun! So pack your sunscreen, water bottle, and hiking boots, and don’t forget to bring your camera – the Ho Chi Minh Trail is waiting!
Geisel Library
Located in the heart of La Jolla, Geisel Library is one of the most iconic landmarks in San Diego County. This world-renowned library not only houses an impressive collection of books, but also serves as a meeting and event space for students, faculty, and visitors alike.
Whether you want to relax on the lawns with a good book or attend a lecture by an esteemed scholar, Geisel Library is the perfect place to spend your day in La Jolla. So if you are looking for a quiet and inspiring place to study or simply want to learn more about this beautiful coastal city, be sure to check out this iconic library during your visit!
Mushroom Beach
Located just south of La Jolla in San Diego County, Mushroom Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Southern California. Known for its stunning rock formations and unique, mushroom-shaped mangroves, this picturesque beach makes for an unforgettable day trip during your stay in La Jolla. It’s better to go during low tide so you can see the tide pools.
You can park your car in the neighborhood just east of it. There is a white stairway to walk down to the rocks. Make sure to bring your swimsuit, camera, and a picnic lunch – Mushroom Beach is the perfect place to relax and unwind during your visit to La Jolla!
Scripps Pier
Scripps Pier, an iconic landmark in La Jolla, is part of the renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography. The pier, extending over 1,000 feet into the ocean, offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding coastline.
One particularly awe-inspiring event occurs during the equinox, which happens twice a year. During this time, photographers flock to the pier to capture the magical moment when the sun aligns perfectly with the pier’s symmetrical structure, creating a stunning visual effect. This phenomenon, known as the “Scripps Pier Solar Alignment,” is a must-see event for both locals and visitors to La Jolla. While the pier itself is not open to the public, you can still enjoy the view and take incredible photos from the adjacent beach.
