arrow-down arrow-left arrow-right arrow-up play-button plus tab-indicator dots close menu search facebook google-plus instagram pinterest rss twitter tiktok youtube rss-two heart Check FeaturedBadge linkedin minus apps placeholder linkedin

La Jolla Playground

It’s fun to be a kid in La Jolla

With the ocean at your feet and countless ways to play, learn and have fun, bring the family to San Diego and make La Jolla your playground.

Catch a Wave

La Jolla's cliff formations, diverse reefs and beautiful beaches offer a wide range of surfing conditions but La Jolla Shores makes the perfect spot for kids and beginners alike with smaller, more consistent swells over the summer. From private lessons to kids surf camps, grab a board and catch a wave with Surf Diva Surf School.

Sea the True San Diego Locals

Discover vibrant sea life and interactive exhibits at a play date under the sea at the Birch Aquarium at Scripps. Kids can watch daily feedings and live kelp tank dive shows or visit the outdoor living tide pools while you take in the iconic views of Scripps Pier.

Take a Hike

Some views are worth the hike and this is one of them! Rated moderately easy by locals and avid hikers, the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve makes for an exciting family adventure. After parking at the base of the mountain, follow the road past Torrey Pines State Beach to a network of seaside trails leading to the the top at Razor Point and down along the beach. Framed by the bluffs, enjoy the beauty of the reserve and test your knowledge with fun facts throughout the park. A stroll down to the beach is the perfect way to cool off after a day in the sun.

Picnic at Ellen Browning Scripps Park

Soak up the sun and panoramic views while picnicking at Ellen Browning Scripps Park. With lined tall palm trees and expansive green spaces overlooking the ocean, it's no surprise that this park has been called the most photographed spot in San Diego. Play games in the park, attend a seasonal event or simply bring a blanket, lunch, sit back and relax.

Paddle Out to Sea

From the Shores to the Cove, La Jolla makes for the perfect launching point to explore San Diego’s coastline and sea life! Get over the water with standup paddleboards, surfboards, boogie boards and more with Everyday California! Gentle waves make this the ideal playground for families. Up for an adventure? Let team members guide you through the Emerald Cave during the popular kayak tour for a memorable experience.

Unleash Your Creative Side

With just enough art for a seaside village, explore the collections of our time at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego - La Jolla. Follow the green path to unique life-size installations at the seaside Edwards Sculpture Garden, lunch on the patio at the Museum Cafe or take in beautiful ocean views. Inside, spend the afternoon looking at unique art exhibits and hands-on public programs.

MCASD La Jolla is closed in 2017 for amazing upcoming renovations.

Find a place to stay

Book online or call 1-800-350-6205 to speak with a local expert

Related Articles and Features

Deals just for you

Accommodation

Linger Longer Offer

Days Inn By Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle
Valid: Jun 4 - ongoing

One night in San Diego is never enough. Slow your next stay down and savor the little moments with our Linger Longer, Save More offers. This rate includes savings between 15% - 20% off our...

Restaurants

Show Your Ticket & Save

Bronze Bird - The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
Valid: Apr 17 - ongoing

Make it a memorable night of culinary and performing arts!  Enjoy 20% off food and non-alcoholic drinks for pre or post show dining at Bronze Bird, located only 1 block to the Balboa...

Accommodation

Stay longer and Save 15%

Western Inn
Valid: May 9 - ongoing

Stay 3 nights and save 15% off on your next stay at the Old Town Western Inn.

Events to check out

Event

San Diego International Auto Show

Dec 28, 2024 - Jan 1, 2025

Where the cars are the stars! The San Diego International Auto Show features the widest variety of new vehicles under one roof.

Event

Hagen Quartet

The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
Feb 20, 2025

The Hagen Quartet has attained an unparalleled position among the finest ensembles of our time, having been declared “the pinnacle of musicality” (Die Presse). For nearly four decades, the...

Event

PROPER NYE/NYD

Dec 31, 2024 - Jan 1, 2025

Celebrate the New Year with CRSSD's Proper NYE/NYD at Petco Park!

Stay in touch

Sign up to receive the latest news, events, and updates about San Diego. Our monthly and weekly newsletters will keep you informed about the latest and greatest happenings in the destination.

Sign Up

Partners

Explore

Plan

Stay

Follow Us

Language:

English | Change Language

Select your country or region

China
Germany
Great Britain
Japan
Mexico
Korea
Switzerland
Brazil
France
Australia
Canada
USA

Or use Google Translate

Afrikaans
Albanian
Arabic
Belarusian
Bulgarian
Croatian
Danish
Deutsch
Español
Estonian
Filipino
Finnish
Francais
Georgian
Greek
Haitian-Creole
Hebrew
Hindi
Hungarian
Icelandic
Indonesian
Irish
Italian
Japanese
Korean
Latvian
Lithuanian
Macedonian
Malay
Maltese
Nederlands
Norwegian
Persian
Polish
Portuguese
Romanian
Russian
Serbian
Slovak
Slovenian
Swahili
Swedish
Telugu
Thai
Turkish
Ukranian
Vietnamese
Yiddish