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La Jolla

Where a spectacular coastline and upscale village atmosphere define San Diego's Jewel by the Sea

One of the top beach destinations in the world

With a dramatic coastline boasting incredible 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 natural beauty, abundance of activities and upscale village lifestyle ensure that it lives up to its nickname as "the jewel" of San Diego.

Consistently voted one of the top beach destinations in the world, La Jolla offers a wide range of accommodations from luxurious hotels to casual coastal retreats, along with museums and art galleries, one-of-a-kind boutiques, great restaurants and a slew of outdoor activities. Home to the famous Torrey Pines Golf Course and The Lodge at Torrey Pines, the scenic cliff area offers well-groomed hiking trails with spectacular views, and world-class golf. At Torrey Pines Gliderport you can soar out over the beach cliffs on a hang glider or just relax and watch the action above.

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. Just south of the park is the Children's Pool, where a seawall was originally built to protect kids from incoming waves, but has been long taken over by a local seal colony. People are no longer permitted to swim here, but you can walk out along the seawall for a close-up view of the wildlife.

La Jolla is also home to Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institute of Oceanography and plenty of cultural attractions including the La Jolla Playhouse and the Museum of Contemporary Art, all situated in close proximity to The Village. The University of California San Diego, which hosts the popular Geisel Library and the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, are both located in La Jolla as well.

La Jolla's biggest draw for locals and visitors alike are the beautiful beaches. During the summer and autumn months, the surf is relatively gentle, with warm waters in 70s. Swimmers, snorkelers, scuba divers, kayakers and surfers can enjoy the golden sands of La Jolla Shores, the Cove and Windansea. And be sure to keep an eye out for migrating whales off the coast as they travel to and from Baja California.

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The seaside community of La Jolla occupies 7 miles of coastline along the Pacific Ocean within the north county of San Diego. It is surrounded on three sides by ocean bluffs and beaches. The main route in and out of La Jolla is the I-5 freeway, from the south exit at La Jolla Village Drive and from the north exit La Jolla Parkway. It is approximately 14 miles from the airport with an average drive time of 20 minutes. La Jolla is serviced by multiple bus routes and Old Town Trolley Tours offers a La Jolla option with on and off privileges.

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Make a splash in La Jolla

Take a tour with Alana Nichols - Gold Medalist, Motivational Speaker, Water Enthusiast

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Torrey Pines Natural Reserve

Get back to nature and enjoy one of the most beautiful coastal hikes in America.

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Shopping La Jolla

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PRIVATE CUSTOMIZABLE ICONIC CITY HIGHLIGHTS TOUR

May 3, 2022 - ongoing

Journey with award winning tour guide Julie around San Diego’s cultural and historic sites—on a private tour of fun and informative must-see sightseeing hotspots.

OLD TOWN: Take a trip into the past and learn about our rich Spanish and Mexican heritage and why we are the “Birthplace of California.” Experience our original city—colorful and festive now, but find out why it wasn’t always that way.

DOWNTOWN: Explore these San Diego Downtown essentials: scenic San Diego Bay’s Embarcadero waterfront, the famous and vibrant Gaslamp Quarter, hip and historic Little Italy, and Petco Park.

BALBOA PARK: The cultural heartbeat of our city; you will fall in love with the country’s largest urban cultural park and be dazzled discovering its origins as you take in its incredible vegetation, gorgeous flowers and ornate architecture.

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Ten-time GRAMMY Winner Arturo Sandoval

Jun 3, 2022

Ten-time GRAMMY Award winner Arturo Sandoval is fluent in at least four musical languages. He can burn through an Afro-Cuban groove, tear up a bebop tune, soar over a Mozart concerto, and soothe you with a luscious ballad, all with equal power and grace.

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A.R. Valentien Signature Wine Series

Jul 21, 2022

Set on A.R. Valentien's relaxing al fresco terrace, experience an exquisite multi-course meal paired with acclaimed Napa wines from Nickel & Nickel and Far Niente. Executive Chef Kelli Crosson join forces with Bruce Mooers, President of Nickel & Nickel, for this curated summer wine dinner. Reserve your private table today to enjoy the seasonal bounty and some of the state’s most notable wines.

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PRIVATE SHUTTLED COASTAL GEMS TOUR

May 3, 2022 - ongoing

Breezy palm trees, captivating coastal vistas, postcard perfect cliffs, colorful beach umbrellas, hidden sea caves, picturesque ocean coves, crashing waves... Need we say more? This is the quintessential southern California beach and seascape tour you’ve always wanted to do. On this private tour, check out the affluent lifestyle of La Jolla with its Mediterranean architecture, unmatched coastline and delightful wildlife. Experience primo Southern California beach culture at a bustling three-mile boardwalk filled with skateboarders, runners, inline skaters, bikers, and sun worshippers as well as one of the top surfing spots on our 70 miles of picturesque coastline. Step back in time viewing Coronado’s charming beaches, elegant residences; and partake in other seaside surprises!

Live the California Dream!

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Make a splash in La Jolla

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Torrey Pines Natural Reserve

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Shopping La Jolla

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PRIVATE CUSTOMIZABLE ICONIC CITY HIGHLIGHTS TOUR

May 3, 2022 - ongoing

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Ten-time GRAMMY Winner Arturo Sandoval

Jun 3, 2022

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A.R. Valentien Signature Wine Series

Jul 21, 2022

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PRIVATE SHUTTLED COASTAL GEMS TOUR

May 3, 2022 - ongoing

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La Jolla on Instagram

San Diego Arts and Culture

Positively passionate!

Here's just a brief look at why this city by the beach is earning a reputation as a vibrant, culturally rich and culture-loving destination.

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Arts & Culture

Ten Sweet Spots for San Diego Street Art

Follow a trail through San Diego's colorful street art

Muralists and street artists are the tricksters of public art. They play with scale, making familiar objects giant. They slip in visual puns and sly references, simultaneously secret and bold as a howl. They create monuments to people and moments they deem heroic. From hidden alleys to busy streets, they highlight San Diego's unique landscape and show off the city's creativity. Follow a trail through San Diego's colorful street art to get a glimpse into the destination's diverse neighborhoods.

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Beaches & Bays

San Diego Surf Scene - Inside Scoop

Local tips and information to help you get into the surf

Ready to surf San Diego style? Check out some of our local tips and information to help you get into the surf effortlessly.

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Surfing & Stand Up Paddleboard

San Diego Surf Events

Buzz-Worthy Boarding

There’s always a wave to ride in San Diego, but there’s also bound to be a surf event worth catching too. With a surf scene this exciting, there’s always something going on. From amateur contests to pro competitions, concerts to surfing dogs, you can find the surf event that fits your vibe. Then just ride the good times.

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