La Jolla, San Diego's Jewel by the Sea

La Jolla
Hotels
Dining
Activites
Events
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San Diego's Jewel by the Sea

With a dramatic coastline boasting spectacular views, it's no surprise that La Jolla is one of the most popular beach destinations in California. Surrounded on three sides by the sea and backed by the steep slopes of Mt. Soledad, La Jolla's coastal profile and quaint village lifestyle evokes a Mediterranean feel. With a unique microclimate that rarely drops below 50 degrees or exceeds 90 degrees, combined with unmatched natural beauty, an upscale casual vibe and world-class attractions, La Jolla lives up to its nickname as "the jewel" of San Diego.

La Jolla offers a wide range of accommodations and activities, from upscale and luxurious hotels, to casual fine dining, museums and art galleries, one-of-a-kind boutiques a slew of outdoor activities. Home to the famous Torrey Pines Golf Course and the The Lodge at Torrey Pines, the area also offers well-groomed hiking trails with spectacular views. Along the dramatic coastline lies Scripps Park, where families can picnic throughout the summer while enjoying Fourth of July fireworks and concerts under the stars. There are plenty of cultural attractions to visit in La Jolla, with the Birch Aquarium at Scripps, La Jolla Playhouse and the Museum of Contemporary Art all situated in close proximity to the Village.

La Jolla's biggest draw for locals and tourists alike, are the beaches. During the summer and autumn months, the surf is relatively gentle, with warm waters in 70s. Swimmers, snorkelers, scuba divers and surfers can enjoy the local beaches at La Jolla Shores, the Cove and Windansea.

What to Love

Hiking through the trails of Torrey Pines
Scoring a tee time on Torrey Pines Golf Course
Exploring the tide pools and coves along La Jolla Shores
Shopping and browsing through boutiques and art galleries along Prospect Avenue
Fine dining with spectacular ocean views

What to Know

The roads in and out of La Jolla are narrow and can back up easily. Be prepared for traffic.
Due to its beauty and popularity, parking at La Jolla shores fills up quickly. Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Comfortable and balmy weather typically arrives in September, just as the crowds thin, and lasts well into December.
Getting a tee time at Torrey Pines takes patience. Here is a guide to scoring one

Activities and What to Do in La Jolla

La Jolla offers plenty of activities for visitors who are planning the perfect Southern California vacation. From world-class golf courses and cultural institutions, to shopping, dining and outdoor activities such as hiking, paragliding and surfing, there's something for everyone when exploring this luxurious beach town.

You won't find another golf course that matches the Pacific Ocean views when rounding the 18 holes of Torrey Pines Golf Course. Surrounding the golf course is Torrey Pines State Park, which offers well-groomed hiking trails with spectacular views. If you're the daring and adventurous type, head over to the Torrey Pines Glider Port for some hang gliding or paragliding.

There are plenty of cultural attractions to visit in La Jolla. Explore the wonders of the Pacific Ocean at the Birch Aquarium at Scripps. The Aquarium is the interpretive center for the world-renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography, where families can learn about the wonders and mysteries of sea life in the local coastal regions. For the thespian or theater lover, don't miss a performance at the La Jolla Playhouse at UCSD. And if you're an art enthusiast, be sure to explore the latest show at the Museum of Contemporary Art, showcasing innovative and perception-altering exhibits of modern and contemporary art. There are also plenty of art galleries showcasing everything from local to globally renowned artists in the galleries along Prospect street and Girard Avenue in La Jolla Village.

La Jolla's biggest draw for locals and tourists alike, are La Jolla's gorgeous beaches. During the summer and autumn months, the surf is relatively gentle, with warm waters in 70s. Swimmers, snorkelers, scuba divers and surfers can enjoy the local beaches at La Jolla Shores, the Cove and Windansea.

5 to Try in La Jolla

Hiking Torrey Pines
Torrey Pines State Park, named after the Torrey Pines tree that grows here, is a great place for hiking, running and biking along its miles of trails and wilderness. Just watch out for the hill, you will know it when you see it. At the bottom of the park is its beach perfect for swimming and other traditional water activities.
The Water
La Jolla Shores is a popular beach with both locals and visitors. Here you will find families camping out for the day on the pristine white sand or at the adjacent park. When the sun begins to set, these same families enjoy light up their bbqs and bonfires for the night. Like the rest of San Diego's bonfire pits, arrive early to claim yours as they are first-come first-served. La Jolla Cove is a protected marine sanctuary with an idyllic crescent of beach sheltered from all but the worst of winter storms. The Cove is the best place in town for a safe swim, snorkeling or scuba diving.
With the Kids
La Jolla is a great place to bring the kids for a fun-filled day. Take them to the Children's Pools, a man-made beach protected by a sea wall, to watch grey seals roam about and lazily enjoy the sun. For fun off the beaten path, at the north end, just off Prospect Street, you'll find a dirt path leading to the top of Deadman's Bluff, or you can descend a tunnel in the basement of the old Curio Shop to visit Sunny Jim's Cave. Here you'll find a variety of native sea birds nesting on the cliffs and sea lions sunning on the rocks below. Kids really enjoy the hidden education with all of the interactive and hands-on fun at the Birch Aquarium at Scripps. If you are here during the summer, end the night with a picnic at Scripps park where the whole family can enjoy Fourth of July fireworks and free summer concerts.
Torrey Pines Glider Port
Feeling adventurous? Head on over to Torrey Pines Gliderport for a single or tandem paragliding or hang gliding flight over the beaches of La Jolla.
Downtown La Jolla
The main business district runs along Prospect Avenue with romantic old-world hotels, gourmet restaurants and upscale shops for which La Jolla is famous. Sit and relax at an outdoor café at after a few hours of shopping at the trendy boutiques. Then take some time to explore the Museum of Contemporary Art. End the day at one of La Jolla's fine restaurants.