La Jolla Travel Guide: Things to Do in La Jolla, California
Let’s first talk about the basics of La Jolla, San Diego, to prepare you for your trip! And while we’re at it, let’s be friends on Instagram and TikTok!
La Jolla Weather
The weather in La Jolla is just one of the reasons it ranks as one of the top destinations in the United States. The summers are short and warm, and the winters are long and cool but not too cold!
The average temperature over the year varies from 50°F to 77°F. It is rare for La Jolla to drop below 44°F in the winter or above 85°F in the summer. This means you can expect an annual average of 60° to 70° F.
Getting Around Town
The best way to get around La Jolla is by foot. If you stay in the Village area, you can walk to the beautiful beaches, tasty restaurants, and much more. If you want to explore further, you can rent a bike for the day or even take advantage of their public bus routes, which is easily accessed in La Jolla Village and Downtown La Jolla.
Neighborhoods in San Diego – La Jolla
As I mentioned above, La Jolla is a neighborhood of San Diego and is a relatively big area along the ocean with plenty to do. While many areas are suburbs and homes to residents, there are a few popular spots you will be passing through.
The Village, also known as downtown La Jolla is the place to be and serves as the hub in La Jolla. Don’t miss Girard Avenue and Prospect St. for lots of shopping and boutiques. North of the village is La Jolla Shores, where most of the beaches are located along Coast Boulevard. You will likely be back and forth between these two areas.
Things to do in La Jolla
1. Spot the Sea Lions
Take a leisurely stroll along the coast for your best chance to spot the sea lions. These adorable sea animals like to sunbathe on the rocks in the area. They are most commonly spotted on the cliffs at La Jolla Cove. Sometimes, you can even see them floating in the ocean as they love swimming.
There are seals in the area, too. You might be lucky enough to spot both in one visit!
2. Watch the Sunset at Scripps Pier
Visit the famous Scripps Pier, which was first built in 1916 and replaced in 1988. The new modern pier was funded by its namesake patron and is considered one of the world’s biggest research piers. The pier is considered one of the most photographed locations in La Jolla. It is the ideal place to watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
3. Go Tidepooling
So, what is tide pooling? It is a fun opportunity for you to explore sea life and the ecosystem during low tide. There are a few places where you can find tide pools in La Jolla.
Hospitals Beach is a popular location where you can see lobsters, sea shells, sea anemones, crabs, barnacles, and mussels. South Casa Beach is another hot spot where you can spot sea anemones, brittle stars, sea stars, mussels, limpets, chitons, and crabs.
The best time to visit the tide pools is from December to March when the tides reveal wider beaches, which results in the tide pools becoming uncovered. But don’t worry, you can go any time of the year!
4. Restaurant Hop on Avenida De La Playa
Experience some of La Jolla’s best dining by visiting Avenida De La Playa. This road sits in the heart of La Jolla Shores and is the perfect place to explore. Grab a delicious sandwich from the Cheese Shop, a coffee at Brick & Bell Cafe, or fresh oysters from Sandpiper Wood Fired Grill & Oysters. Other favorites on Avenida De La Playa are pizza at Dough Momma Pizzeria and delicious brunch and Italian favorites at Barbarella. Ending your beach day along this road is the perfect way to experience La Jolla’s Shores!
5. Swim at La Jolla’s Underwater Park
Calling all marine life lovers! La Jolla Underwater Park is the destination for you as you can explore 6000 acres of water! The San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve spans from La Jolla Cove to La Jolla Shores Beach and includes the rocky shores and sea caves in between.
There will be buoys that outline the perimeter, which will help you navigate the park once in the water. I recommend giving scuba diving or snorkeling a shot here. If being above the water is more your scene, then kayaking is also another wonderful option!
Try this highly rated La Jolla Underwater Park: Kayak and Snorkel Tour!
6. Go to the Museum of Contemporary Art in San Diego
Now that you’ve spent most of your day in the water, spend some of your time marveling at art. The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego features collections and exhibitions of various art from 1950 to the present day. Some current exhibitions are Carmen Argote: Filtration System for a Process-based Practice and Alexis Smith: The American Way.
The La Jolla Museum showcases emerging and unrecognized artists, mid-career artists, and major figures in international contemporary art. The museum has two locations, one located in downtown San Diego. The other is in the heart of La Jolla and is called MCASD. The admission cost is $25 per adult, and is well worth learning about these upcoming local artists.
7. Hike in Torrey Pines Natural Reserve
While many people may think of the Rocky Mountains as the prime spot for hiking, La Jolla has some beautiful trails. My favorite is the Torrey Pines Nature Reserve, which is a coastal state park that sits over 2,000 acres.
It is known as one of the wildest stretches of land on the coast of Southern California. The Torrey Pines Beach Loop Trail is a top-rated hike in the area. It is only 2.3 miles long and takes an average of an hour and a half. The trail will bring you along the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy the light ocean mist and salty sea air.
8. Go on a Salk Institute Architecture Tour
If you love architecture, you won’t want to miss the Salk Institute. This building was designed partly by Jonas Salk, and architecture critics acclaimed it as one of the world’s boldest structures, and it’s so cool. It was completed in 1965 and is now designated a historical site. You can visit the campus to enjoy the architecture of the building and take an architecture tour. It is known for its bold lines and ocean views!
9. Take a Surf Lesson
If you truly want to fit in with the La Jolla locals, take a surfing lesson! The Surf Diva Surf School & Surf Shop has been in business for over 25 years and is a top-rated company for surf lessons. I recommend the 1.5-hour surfing package. They will give a breakdown of surfing basics that will have you catching waves in no time.
Whether this is your first time surfing or you want to advance your knowledge, they work with all skill levels within a 90-minute time slot. The cost for the 90-minute session is $150. Going with a group? The rate goes down for 2-3 Students: $115/per person and 4-5 Students: $105/per person. You can take surf lessons any time of the year, but if you are looking for lighter waves, then winter will be your best bet.
10. Go on a La Jolla Sea Cave Tour
One of the most popular tourist attractions in La Jolla is the sea caves all around the area! If you want a unique and exhilarating experience, this might be it! Led by expert guides, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the geological wonders and marine life that call this place home.
From adorable sea lions to vibrant fish, you’ll be up close and personal with life in the Pacific. Check out these awesome kayak and cave tours!
Best Beaches In La Jolla
1. La Jolla Shores Beach
If you want a tan and to swim then La Jolla Shores Beach is for you. This 1-mile-long stretch of beach sits just south of the Village. You will spot a lot of families and groups having a jam-packed beach day. You will even see some surfers on the horizon catching some California waves. This beach is best for water activities, including swimming and surfing. It is one of the more crowded areas due to its central location.
2. Windansea Beach
One of the most spectacular beaches in La Jolla is Windansea Beach. It has become a hot spot for engagement and wedding photos. If you visit during sunrise or sunset, you may see some photographers and brides on the sandy shores. The most pleasing thing about the beach is that it is not overly crowded. It is known for being tranquil and peaceful. I recommend laying out a blanket and watching the pink and orange sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
3. La Jolla Cove
Get ready to spend the day relaxing at La Jolla Cove! This spot is a small cove with a gorgeous beach that is surrounded by cliffs. It is a special area that is protected since it is a part of a marine reserve. This is also a favored place for snorkelers, swimmers, and scuba divers. Sit out on the beach and watch the sea lions sunbathing on the rocks. La Jolla Cove is one of the most captivating places in the area, making it popular for tourists and locals!
4. Wipeout Beach
Wipeout Beach is another option when visiting La Jolla. It is on the side of the road and is accessed by a quick hike down to the shore. There are plenty of large rocks for you to sit on and relax at. The Wedding Bowl is located not too far up the beach from Wipeout. Which is a famous wedding location. So you may even spot a ceremony in the distance. This beach is a crowded spot since it can be seen from the side of the road. I recommend it for a short visit rather than a whole beach day.
5. Children’s Pool La Jolla
Visit the small beach known as the Children’s Pool Beach. It is located at 850 Coast Boulevard, which is at the end of Jenner Street. Don’t worry; it is not just for kids! The small area is filled with families, adults, and solo travelers year-round. When you get there, you will most likely see blankets set up with bright-colored umbrellas all around.
This is the top-rated beach in La Jolla, so get there early to grab a spot. Also, be warned that the beach can be closed anytime due to the seals and sea lions. It is common for them to take over the Children’s Pool for their own beach day! I mean, can we blame them?
Best Restaurants in La Jolla, California
La Jolla’s food scene is just another bonus of the area. In addition to the gorgeous coastline, you will find a lot of talented chefs who highlight California’s culinary scene.
Coffee:
Better Buzz
Let’s be honest: a good cup of coffee is the foundation of a successful adventure day. That is why you should start off at Better Buzz. Their coffees and food items have such a pretty presentation, in addition to their yummy taste.
They have a variety of freshly brewed coffees, lattes, and more. Then pair your coffee with a piece of Avocado Toast, which has avocado, watermelon radish, cucumber, sesame seed, chia seed, hemp seed, lemon, crushed red pepper, and microgreens on multigrain.
Address: Address: 909 Prospect St #100a, La Jolla, CA 92037
Breakfast
Sugar and Scribe Bakery & Fine Food
Did you know La Jolla has some famous chefs in town? Sugar and Scribe Bakery is home to Food Network Champion Chef Maeve. The classic bakeries of the world inspire the sophisticated restaurant.
They serve up a delicious brunch menu that includes the Crabby Jones Benedict, which has poached eggs, crab cakes, arugula, spicy sriracha, hollandaise, and an English muffin. Don’t leave until you visit the bakery on the way out. They were rated the best bakery in 2017 by both San Diego Magazine and La Jolla Village News.
Address: 7660 Fay Ave Suite I, La Jolla, CA 92037
The Cottage
Located in the Village of La Jolla is the Cottage. The restaurant has been serving breakfast, brunch, and lunch for over twenty-five years. Their cuisine features traditional American and Southern Californian. I recommend this place for breakfast due to its mouth-watering menu!
This includes Lemon Ricotta Pancakes which are made with a house recipe of lemon ricotta batter and lemon zest. You can also get your California seafood on by trying the Wild Caught Shrimp Omelet. It has shrimp, poblano chili, shaved asparagus, lemon zest, cheddar, and jack cheese with roasted bell pepper sauce. Hungry yet?
Address: 7702 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
Lunch
Trilogy Sanctuary
Grab lunch at the boho-chic rooftop cafe of Trilogy Sanctuary. They offer organic, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. Try their heavenly smoothie, which is filled with almond milk, coconut milk, pitaya, strawberry, banana, date, almond butter, and protein.
The smoothie will be a great addition to the Holy Beet Wrap. A raw coconut wrap bursting with beet hummus, roasted butternut squash, avocado, caramelized onions, fresh spinach, red cabbage, and a drizzle of lemon tahini dressing. A healthy and nourishing lunch spot with a tranquil ocean view!
Address: Rooftop & Level 3, 7650 Girard Ave Suite 400, La Jolla, CA 92037
Cheese Shop La Jolla
You can grab a sandwich at the famous Mom-and-pop shop, Cheese Shop La Jolla. The shop hit the La Jolla scene in 1972 by John and Dorothy Schutz. They began importing cheese from all over the world. The sandwiches here are the real deal.
Some crowd favorites are the turkey breast, Monterey jack cheese, and lots of fresh avocados. You can also get a cheese sandwich. With this, you can pick one or two of the cheese selections for your sandwich: Cheddar, Jack, Swiss, Havarti, Pepper Jack, Muenster, Provolone, or Gouda. A cheese lover’s dream!
Address: 2165 Avenida De La Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037
Dinner:
NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar
Try the fine dining restaurant of NINE-TEN, which award-winning Chef Jason Knibb and Pastry Chef Jose Alonzo III leads. This fabulous restaurant prides itself on its globally-inspired and locally sourced dishes.
Their delectable dishes showcase Pan-Roasted Colorado Lamb Loin served with grilled summer squash, roasted maitake mushroom, pickled summer squash, piquillo pepper & Meyer lemon relish, basil, squash puree, and lamb jus.
Then add a dessert to your courses, such as the Stone Fruit “Napoleon”, poached peach, fresh plum, pistachio ice cream, lemongrass cream, elderflower sabayon, and brown butter crumb. A bucket list fine dining experience in La Jolla.
Address: 910 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
George’s At The Cove
Enjoy an evening meal at George’s At The Cove! A restaurant that has been acknowledged both locally and nationally as one of the best restaurants in San Diego. You can have dinner on their Ocean Terrace, which overlooks the Pacific Ocean.
I recommend going at sunset for the most stunning views. Menu items on the terrace include Local Yellowtail served with artichoke, fennel, grapefruit, mint salsa verde, and Roasted Jidori Chicken served with forbidden dirty rice, chow chow, and chicken jus. You can pair dinner with one of their handcrafted cocktails that are served at Level 2!
Address: 1250 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
Puesto
There is just something about enjoying a plate of Mexican food after a day in La Jolla’s sun. Luckily, La Jolla has a delicious option for you to enjoy, Puesto. This family restaurant has a story that began with tacos.
As first-generation Mexican Americans, they have been immersed in authentic Mexican cooking since childhood. You can truly taste it in their dishes. Start your meal with their Ceviche Verde, which has local line-caught fish, cucumber, serrano, radish, avocado, and Japanese peanuts.
Follow that with the Baja Fish Taco, which has a puesto beer-battered local line-caught fish, shredded cabbage, classic guacamole, crema, and Morita salsa. All of their dishes go perfectly with their hand-crafted margaritas. You will not be disappointed!
Address: 1026 Wall St, La Jolla, CA 92037
Best Places To Stay in La Jolla, California
Now that you know what to do and where to eat, you must find a place to stay. La Jolla has plenty of accommodations, but here are the ones I recommend.
1. Grande Colonial Hotel
Enjoy the cozy and comfortable Grande Colonial Hotel. This four-star property has been welcoming guests since 1913. Take in the breathtaking ocean views from their suites. They are also home to the fine dining restaurant we already talked about, NINE-TEN. A luxury hotel that still provides that old-school La Jolla Tradition.
See my review | Book this hotel
Address: 910 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
2. The Lodge at Torrey Pines
Spend a night at the five-star hotel, The Lodge At Torrey Pines. The hotel overlooks the. the world-renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course and provides views of the Pacific Ocean. Spend some time getting pampered at their world-class spa.
If you want to stay close for dinner, dine at their fancy restaurant, A.R. Valentien. Which sources all of its ingredients locally. The Lodge At Torrey Pines is one of La Jolla’s luxury hotels, and it definitely lives up to the hype.
Address: 11480 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
Read Reviews | Book this Hotel
source: Inspirato
3. La Valencia
La Valencia is the famous pink hotel in La Jolla! It’s got spacious coastal villas and suites with a Mediterranean vibe, ocean views, and luxurious vibes! It’s also very close to La Jolla Beach!
Address: 1132 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
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