Although it’s part of San Diego, the community of La Jolla (that’s “la HOYa”) is a destination in and of itself. Nicknamed “The Jewel,” La Jolla is well-known for its unique art scene and culture, as well as its gorgeous beaches. Whether you’re in the area for a day or a week, you can easily fill your time here with shopping, museums, outdoor activities, and more.
Any trip to La Jolla should start at one of its world-famous beaches, among the most beautiful and popular in southern California. We highly recommend checking out La Jolla Cove Beach, the perfect spot to relax, swim, and see some of the area’s famous sea lions.
To see more marine life, head to the La Jolla Underwater Park and experience leopard sharks, manta rays, Garibaldi fish, and even the occasional whale up close and personal. First-time surfers should check out La Jolla Shores Beach, known for its mellow waves, while more experienced surf enthusiasts should head to Windansea Beach for rougher waters. Finally, families can relax in the gentle waters of Children’s Pool Beach.
La Jolla is also known for its unique culture, which is showcased wonderfully at its many museums. Some of our favorites include the Maps and Atlas Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Athenaeum Music and Art Library. For an introduction to the area’s long and colorful history, check out the La Jolla Historical Society and take a stroll down the Ellen Scripps pier. Finally, no trip to La Jolla would be complete without a visit to the Birch Aquarium, a research center associated with the famous Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego.
To make the most of your trip, check out our La Jolla Cove Self-Guided Driving Tour, or you can sign up for Action+ and gain access to over 100 tours for a single yearly price.
