Waves Over Winter in La Jolla
Soak up the Sun This Winter
Kayaking, snorkeling, standup paddleboarding, hiking, paragliding and more—here are a few outdoor adventures to help you thaw out in La Jolla during winter.
From the deep ocean floor to high in the sky, there are many ways to enjoy the mild climate of a winter in La Jolla, San Diego's Jewel by the Sea.
Meet the locals who live under the water while kayaking, scuba diving or snorkeling. Find your balance on the waves with a standup paddleboard. Marvel at the trees that inspired Dr. Suess during a hike at one of San Diego's most picturesque parks. Or soar high above the Pacific Ocean like a seagull. There is something for every outdoor adventure seeker in La Jolla.
Paddle Out to Sea
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! Kayak in either a single or double, wave hello to the true locals, the sea lions at the Cove and explore the Seven Caves of La Jolla, including the famous Sunny Jim Cave.
Under the Sea
Under the Sea
La Jolla's mild climate means you don't have to brave the extreme cold ocean temperatures. So go ahead, jump in and explore La Jolla's beautiful underwater oasis. Rent gear and make your way to the beach or take a guided snorkel tour with La Jolla Kayak, Bike & Kayak Tours, Inc. - La Jolla or Everyday California, allowing you to discover the best of the region.
SUP
SUP
Locally known as SUP, standup paddleboarding has also become a popular recreational activity in San Diego, where you can enjoy the water while finding your balance during a great core workout. If you're a beginner or traveling with the family, head to the Shores, where the waves are generally tamer year round.
Meet the Locals
Meet the Locals
The Birch Aquarium at Scripps invites you to meet the local marine life including La Jolla's legendary leopard sharks that make their home in local waters along with starfish, hermit crabs, sea cucumbers, lobsters and other animals local to San Diego's tide pools. After you meet the local tide pool inhabitants, don't forget to turn around and take a few moments to enjoy the amazing view of La Jolla and the Pacific Ocean.
Take a hike
Take a hike
For a panoramic adventure, strap on your hiking boots and make your way to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. With over 2,000 acres encompassing miles of beaches, lagoons, canyons and the Torrey pine, the reserve's hiking trails provide ocean views around every turn. The three main trails, Guy Fleming, Razor Point and Beach, intertwine, allowing you to create your own adventure ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. After working up a sweat, walk past colorful sandstone cliffs and relax on Torrey Pines State Beach.
(Note: Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve has limited access through February 2026 due to a construction project. The park road, upper parking lots, and all trails within the main reserve are closed to vehicles and pedestrians. The South Beach and North Beach parking lots as well as Torrey Pines State Beach remain open.)
Get a Bird's Eye View
Get a Bird's Eye View
Earn your wings at Torrey Pines Glider Port, where you can paraglide or hang glide over miles of La Jolla's pristine beaches and past the cliffs at Torrey Pines State Beach. The most historic aviation site in North America, Glider Port has nearly 100 years of flying history and specializes in flight lessons, certifications and tandem flights.