Often referred to as the “Jewel of San Diego”. La Jolla is a coastal paradise that offers natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences.
The coastal vibes offer many insanely fun activities. In addition, it comes with a wonderful view of the ocean.
If you are traveling or a local looking for new ways to explore, this blog will show you the best activities to do in La Jolla.
From breathtaking ocean views to unique sea caves, this guide will take you through 17 must-do activities that will make your trip unforgettable.
Get ready to discover why this charming seaside community is one of California’s most beloved destinations.
Best Activities to do in La Jolla
1. La Jolla Cove
One of the most popular spots in La Jolla, the cove is a hotspot for snorkeling. While peeking underwater you can swim along Garibaldi fish, gentle leopard sharks, and sea lions that roam around the area.
Even if snorkeling isn’t your thing, you still can visit the scenic shoreline and witness sea lions basking in the sun.
This area is a trendy spot for photography, so if you are looking for a great place for pictures, La Jolla Cove is the spot.
For the best experience, consider visiting early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Parking can be challenging, so plan to arrive early, especially on weekends.
2. La Jolla Shores
This mile-long stretch of sandy beach offers gentle waves, making it an ideal spot for swimming, surfing, and wading in the shallows.
The calm waters also make La Jolla Shores one of the best places in San Diego to try kayaking or paddleboarding, with rentals and guided tours readily available. From here, adventurers can paddle out to explore the nearby La Jolla Sea Caves or snorkel through La Jolla Underwater Park, home to an array of marine life.
The wide, flat beach is perfect for picnics, beach volleyball, or simply lounging under the sun, while the nearby grassy park provides plenty of space for a relaxing afternoon.
3. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a breathtaking sanctuary for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a rare glimpse into Southern California’s coastal wilderness.
The reserve is home to the endangered Torrey pine, one of the rarest pine species in the world.
Visitors can explore a network of scenic hiking trails that wind through this unique landscape, offering stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the dramatic coastline below. Each trail offers something different, from easy walks with panoramic ocean views to more challenging routes that lead down to secluded beaches.
Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting native plants, birds, and perhaps even the occasional fox or rabbit.
4. Birch Aquarium
Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography is a must-visit destination for marine life enthusiasts and families alike.
The aquarium offers a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world through its diverse exhibits and interactive displays. Visitors can explore over 60 habitats showcasing everything from coral reefs and mysterious deep-sea creatures to the local marine life of Southern California.
Kids and adults alike will enjoy the hands-on tide pools where they can touch starfish, sea urchins, and other coastal creatures. The aquarium also features engaging educational programs, daily animal feedings, and stunning views from its outdoor plaza.
5. Ellen Browning Scripps Park
Ellen Browning Scripps Park is a scenic oasis that perfectly captures the coastal charm of La Jolla. Just steps from La Jolla Cove, this lush, grassy park is an ideal spot for picnics, strolls, or simply relaxing while taking in the breathtaking ocean views.
The park is lined with towering palm trees and offers plenty of space for families to spread out, play games, or enjoy a meal with the sound of the waves in the background.
It’s also a popular spot for watching the local sea lions as they bask on the nearby rocks or for capturing stunning photos of the Pacific, especially at sunset.
6. Kayaking the Sea Caves
Kayaking the sea caves in La Jolla takes you along the rugged coastline, you’ll navigate through crystal-clear waters, passing by dramatic cliffs and unique rock formations.
The highlight of this experience is exploring the famed sea caves, especially the iconic Sunny Jim Cave, which is accessible only by water. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the area’s marine life, history, and geology, making the journey not just thrilling but also educational.
Along the way, you might spot playful sea lions, colorful Garibaldi fish, and even dolphins swimming nearby.
7. La Jolla Underwater Park
La Jolla Underwater Park is a hidden gem for snorkelers, scuba divers, and marine enthusiasts, offering an underwater world brimming with vibrant sea life. This 6,000-acre marine reserve features a diverse array of habitats, from rocky reefs and kelp forests to sandy flats and deep canyons.
As you explore beneath the surface, you’ll encounter everything from playful sea lions and curious Garibaldi fish to graceful rays and gentle leopard sharks. The park’s calm, clear waters make it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced divers, providing an up-close look at Southern California’s rich marine biodiversity.
8. The Children’s Pool
The Children’s Pool in La Jolla is a unique spot where visitors can get up close to some of the seals and sea lions. Originally built as a safe swimming area for children, the protected cove has since become a haven for these playful animals.
While swimming is often restricted to protect the seals, the area remains a popular spot for wildlife photography and marine education.
A stroll along the seawall provides views of the coastline and an excellent area for watching the seals as they interact with one another.
9. Torrey Pines Golf Course
Torrey Pines Golf Course is a world-renowned destination for golfers, offering an unforgettable experience on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Known for hosting the prestigious U.S. Open and other major tournaments, this course features two challenging 18-hole layouts—the North and South Courses—that attract players from around the globe.
Golfers of all skill levels can enjoy the course, with its strategic bunkering and ocean breezes adding an extra layer of challenge.
Even if you’re not playing, a visit to Torrey Pines is worthwhile, whether to take in the breathtaking scenery or dine at the clubhouse with panoramic views of the course and ocean.
10. La Jolla Playhouse
Founded in 1947 by Hollywood legend Gregory Peck and other actors, this award-winning theater has become a hub for innovative and cutting-edge productions.
The Playhouse is known for its dynamic and diverse programming, ranging from classic plays to bold new works, many of which have gone on to Broadway and won prestigious awards.
Attending a performance here offers an opportunity to experience the creative process up close, as the Playhouse often serves as an incubator for new plays and musicals.
Set on the scenic campus of UC San Diego, the theater provides an intimate setting where audiences can connect deeply with the stories unfolding on stage.
11. Mount Soledad
Mount Soledad is a must-visit landmark in La Jolla, offering visitors panoramic views of San Diego’s coastline, cityscape, and beyond.
At the summit, the iconic Mount Soledad National Veterans Memorial stands tall, honoring veterans from all branches of the U.S. military with plaques that tell their stories.
It’s an ideal spot for photography, meditation, or simply soaking in the beauty of Southern California.
12. Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) in La Jolla is a hub for modern and contemporary art, offering visitors a dynamic cultural experience.
Housed in a stunning building overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the museum features an impressive collection of works by internationally acclaimed artists, as well as emerging talents. The exhibitions span a wide range of media, from painting and sculpture to video and installation art, providing a thought-provoking exploration of contemporary issues and artistic practices.
The museum’s location also offers a unique blend of art and nature, with outdoor sculptures and terraces that invite visitors to enjoy both the artwork and the coastal views.
13. La Jolla Village
La Jolla Village is the charming heart of La Jolla, offering a blend of upscale shopping, dining, and cultural experiences that make it a must-visit destination.
Stroll through its picturesque streets, and you’ll find an array of boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants that cater to every taste.
The village is also home to some of La Jolla’s most beloved landmarks, including the iconic La Valencia Hotel and the historic Athenaeum Music & Arts Library.
14. Sunset Cliffs
Located just a short drive from La Jolla, this rugged stretch of coastline features dramatic cliffs that drop off into the Pacific Ocean, creating a picturesque setting for nature lovers and photographers alike.
The area is popular for its scenic walking trails, where you can enjoy panoramic ocean vistas, explore tide pools, and even spot surfers riding the waves below.
15. Surfing at Windansea Beach
Known for its powerful reef breaks and consistent swells, Windansea has been a popular surf spot since the 1940s, attracting local legends and surf enthusiasts alike.
While the waves here are best suited for experienced surfers, the beach itself is also a great place to relax, soak up the sun, and watch the pros carve through the waves.
16. Tide Pooling at Shell Beach
Located just below Ellen Browning Scripps Park, this secluded beach becomes a natural aquarium during low tide, revealing a network of tide pools brimming with fascinating sea creatures.
The beach’s calm, clear waters make it easy to spot these hidden gems, making it an ideal spot for families and nature lovers.
Beyond the tide pools, the stunning ocean views and peaceful ambiance create a perfect backdrop for a relaxing day by the sea.
17. Paragliding at Torrey Pines Gliderport
As one of the world’s most famous paragliding spots, the Gliderport offers adventurers the chance to soar above the stunning cliffs, with panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean, rugged coastline, and expansive Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve below.
Whether you’re an experienced paraglider or trying it for the first time, Gliderport provides tandem flights with expert instructors who ensure a safe and unforgettable experience.
After your flight, you can relax at Gliderport’s cliffside café, watching others take to the skies or simply soaking in the incredible views.
We hope you gained value from this blog and found some of the best things to do in La Jolla!
