HOW TO BEST SPEND ONE DAY IN LA JOLLA, SAN DIEGO
Last Updated on 19th November 2024 by Bejal
Located a short drive from San Diego, La Jolla delivers an upmarket coastal village ambiance with a truly spectacular coastline with an abundance of activities for adults and children to enjoy alike. This guide aims to introduce you to the area and show you how best to spend one day in La Jolla, a not to be missed part of San Diego. This one day guide features, the best things to do in La Jolla, options on where to stay as well as some great dining suggestions and of course the usual logistics.
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La Jolla: An Overview
La Jolla, (pronounced la hohya) translates to ‘jewel by the sea’ in Spanish and boasts a dramatic coastline with the most awe-inspiring views. It’s no wonder it’s popular with locals and tourists alike. In fact, La Jolla, just like Coronado Island is one of the most popular beach destinations in the whole of California. The beach town is encapsulated on three sides by the ocean and sits in the backdrop of Mount Soledad, making it such a desirable place to visit. La Jolla’s natural beauty, abundance of activities and coastal lifestyle ensure that it lives up to its Spanish name.
Life in La Jolla is quite unique, with it’s village-style feel yet home to attractions such as Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institute of Oceanography as well as the Museum of Contemporary Art, the town draws in everyone from surfers, snorkelers, beach-lovers, oceanographers as well as culture buffs. It’s the perfect place for family holidays due to it’s amenities, kids activities and great for adults wanting some time by the coast with some fantastic dining options as well as beautiful ocean view hotels.
Where is La Jolla?
The vibrant and bustling community of La Jolla, spans the coast for seven miles along the Pacific Ocean and occupies the northern county of San Diego. La Jolla is encapsulated on three sides by beautiful beaches and ocean cliffs, which are pretty steep in parts.
How To Get To La Jolla?
- Uber: Most people heading to La Jolla for the day will take an uber from the downtown area. It’s around 13.6 miles in distance and takes around 25 minutes.
- Car Hire: If hiring a car, the main route that goes in and out of La Jolla is via the I-5 Freeway, from the South exit at La Jolla Village Drive and from the North exit La Jolla Parkway. If heading to La Jolla straight from the airport, it’s about 14 miles away and will take 20 minutes in moderate traffic conditions.
- Bus: Although we wouldn’t recommend taking a bus as it does take a lot longer and changes have to be made, it is possible to get there. It is serviced by a few bus routes. The line 30 bus which takes 1h 2m and costs $2 – $5. It takes approximately 1h 2m to get from San Diego to La Jolla, including transfers.
- Trolley Tour: The Old Town Trolley Tours offers and option entitled, La Jolla and San Diego Beaches Tour, which explores more of the beaches in the area.
Tours allowing easy access to La Jolla if you’re relying on public transport
When is The Best Time to Visit la Jolla?
To enjoy beautiful weather, the best time to visit is between July and October when you can make full use of the beaches. Shoulder season, either September to the beginning of November or January to the beginning of March is a more affordable time to visit with hotel prices being a little less pricier. It’s good to note that July and August are inevitable busy with school holidays and the summer period.
The Best Things to Do in La Jolla
Here are a few things you can do in a leisurely fashion in La Jolla in one day. Pick and choose depending upon your interests and stroll through the village with plenty of food and drinks stops to refuel.
Take in The Views & Marine Life at La Jolla Cove
Our first stop and most probably one of the most visited locations in La Jolla, it’s easy to see why. Crystal clear sparkling water, rocky cliffs, plenty of marine life – this is coastal beauty and mother nature at it’s best. The sandstone cliffs that surround the cove give a beautiful colour against the palms and bright blue sea, with the crashing waves.
The Cove is a wonderful spot to see the sun go down if you love sunsets however we missed the golden hour hues.
The rock outcroppings around La Jolla are covered with colonies of seals and Sea Lions who call the cove their home. Spot the little pups who you can see diving off the rocks and landing into the water. You’ll see them sunbathing or playing on the rocks as well as swimming in the near waters bopping up and down occasionally.
Be-lavie Tip: Please observe the signs and ensure you do not get too close or try and touch/have selfies with the sea lions and seals. Respect the marine life and stay at least 15-20 feet away. Observing them from the top of the Cove is actually perfect. Allow wildlife to dwell and thrive in it natural habitat.
As well as the sea lions and seals, the cove sees a great number of birds. One of the most prominent being a pod of pelicans, who sit elegantly along the outcroppings. Again please observe the signs and do not feed them or get too close.
Find Location Here:: La Jolla Cove
Have a Picnic at Ellen Browning Scripps Park
Right next to La Jolla Cove be sure to pop by Ellen Browning Scripps Park. It’s a lovely spot to sit and watch the waves of the Pacific Ocean crashing against the rocks. The grass land here is the ideal place to pick up some deli picnic items on Prospect Street, and eat with a view. This is something we’d love to do on our next visit as we saw many locals and visitors relaxing and enjoying their pack-ups here.
Find Location Here: Ellen Scripps Park
Relax At La Jolla Shores Beach Or Hire A Kayak
We didn’t have much time so never made full us of the activities here but this sandy beach spans the length of the coastline and is perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, enjoying a picnic lunch, taking a swim in the sea as well as partaking in beach activities.
La Jolla Shores is a family friendly beach with parking options close-by.
There were plenty of kayak tours from here, perfect for exploring the nearby caves and seeing the shoreline from a lower perspective.
Find Location: Here La Jolla Shores
Recommended Kayak Experiences in La Jolla
Water Activities: Snorkelling, Paddle Boarding & Surfing Experiences in La Jolla
Slightly away from La Jolla Shores, is the La Jolla Underwater Park. This is an ecological and marine reserve which is a popular spot for scuba divers as well as snorkelers. The marine life is abundant here as well as the underwater cave structures.
Find Location Here: La Jolla Underwater Park
Take a Photo at Scripps Memorial Pier
Head to the Scripps Pier to capture those iconic postcard pier photos you see at sunset.
Find Location Here: Scripps Pier
Walk Around La Jolla Tide Pools
The tide pools are a great opportunity to see marine plants and animal species during the low tide. They are located right along the rocky coastline before you get to the seals.
The best time to explore the tide pools is during low tide. Low tide exposes the rocks and pools, giving you a chance to see various marine organisms up close. Tide times change daily, so it’s essential to check the tide schedule for La Jolla before planning your visit. We didn’t’ see much marine life during our short visit.
The tide pools are home to a variety of marine animals, including crabs, star fish, urchins, and various algae species. Keep a safe distance to avoid disturbing the animals and do not pick them up!.
Find Location Here: La Jolla Tide Pools
The Birch Aquarium at Scripps
If you are visiting San Diego especially with your children or aren’t really into snorkelling, kayaking or surfing, then this option could work for you.
The Aquarium at Scripps is located in the Institution of Oceanography and is said to have over 5000 aquatic species in over 60 habitats including penguins, eels and sharks. Marine life is mainly from the Pacific Northwest and Mexico. Visits include educational sessions mixed with interactive displays such as the tide Pools, aiming to highlight ocean conservation. You can also see displays about the ongoing research by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at University College San Diego.
Although the Aquarium does highlight a lot about ocean preservation, we didn’t visit. We prefer to see all wildlife in its natural habitat. It’s a personal choice, so hopefully our short introduction will help you decide if this is an experience for you.
Find Location Here: The Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Be-lavie Tip: The Go San Diego City Pass – for a discounted price, you can gain admission to the Birch Aquarium at Scripps, San Diego Natural History Museum, Full-Day Bike Rental in La Jolla, and more attractions over one, two, three, four, five, or seven days! If you’re planning to stay in San Diego and La Jolla for a few days, We would highly recommend getting a Go City Pass. Click on the link below.
Immerse Yourself in La Jolla’s Art Scene
Galleries
Walking through La Jolla Village, you’re bound to come across many art galleries and boutiques who stock works by national as well as international artists. Prospect Street has a large proportion of cool arty shops and studies.
Museum of Contemporary Art (see further down)
For your culture fix, head to Museum of Contemporary art which has recently been renovated. Read more below.
The La Jolla Playhouse
A not for profit organisation which produces classic as well as modern theatre shows, some of which have gone onto Broadway or seen local talent get parts in Broadway smash hits.
Find Location Here: La Jolla Playhouse
Murals of La Jolla
Lovers of street art, should definitely add the Murals of La Jolla to their list. This is a local public art project which was conceived in 2010 and currently there are 16 murals on walls and public spaces around La Jolla. Many are painted by world renown street artists, with murals being outside as well as indoor public spaces. The Murals do change periodically. You can do a self-guided tour or sign up for a walking tour at the Athenaeum.
Download Map: Guided tours or self guided walks:
Peruse The Exhibits at The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD)
This museum actually has two locations; one is in downtown San Diego and the other is in La Jolla. It’s the perfect way to spend a morning or afternoon, especially if the weather has taken a turn for the worse.
The museum was actually founded in La Jolla back in 1941, and highlights art and nature in its natural habitat. There are plenty of seasonal rotating exhibitions as well as residential artworks.
- Location: 700 Prospect St, San Diego, CA 92037 I Tel. +1 858 454 3541 I Website
- Find Location Here: The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (La Jolla)
- Hours: Thursday-Sunday 10:00-16:00
- Admission: $25
Great Value Bundle: The Museum is included in the Go City San Diego Pass with 50+ Attractions.
Hiking at Torrey Pines
The Torrey Pines State National Reserve has a number of hikes for those who like a little more adventure. Trails are suitable for different levels of skill and experience. Rewards for hikers include panoramic ocean views plus flora and fauna indigenous to the area.
As mentioned, trail levels are suitable for experienced hikers as well as novices.
For further information on hikes head to Torrey Pines Website Look out for the Guy Fleming Trail. Razor Point Trail, Beach Trail and Broken Hill Trail, which are listed in order of ease here!
Torrey Pines has a big car park but with lots of visitors it does get pretty busy so plan your hikes earlier in the day rather than later. It is also cooler to hike earlier. Parking costs around $15 for the day.
Eat Your Way Around La Jolla
La Jolla has some fantastic restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets. So whether it’s sea views or picnics, you will be spoilt for choice. See our recommended restaurants further down in this guide.
Explore The Historic Coast Walk Trail
This historical walk route is a bit of a unique experience in La Jolla. A very scenic path winds above the sandstone cliffs, takes visitors over La Jolla’s history and into the future. It has stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The route heads along the well-known Children’s Pool, which was once a safe area to swim and hangout for families and now has a resident colony of seals and sea lions.
Find Location Here: Coast Walk Trails
Shopping on Prospect Street
If you love a little retail therapy, then head over to Prospect Street which is full of independent galleries, coffee shops, restaurants as well as artisan boutiques. Whether it’s clothing, homewares or local souvenirs, this is the place to be!
The Best Free Things to Do in La Jolla
- Torrey Pines Gliderpoint
- Coast Walk Trail
- La Jolla Cove
- Seals sea Lions and Birds at the Childrens Pool
- La Jolla Murals
- Take in the views at Ellen Browning Scripps Park
- Explore the Tide Pools
The Best Places to Eat & Drink in La Jolla
The Cottage, La Jolla
Great for: Breakfast/Brunch
Established way back in 1985, The Cottage in La Jolla has been the centre of serving mouth watering breakfast, brunch and lunch to the locals and visitors to the coastal town alike. After over 25 years of service, it is super popular and a bit of a la Jolla constitution. The Cottage specialises in traditional American and Southern California food. The Victorian style white washed decor and atmosphere here creates lovely homely and cosy experience. We loved our visit, we got there close to opening time and got a really lovely booth outside. The Cottage has to be the best breakfast in La Jolla, without a doubt.
Be-lavie Tip: Get here early for breakfast, it gets pretty busy very fast. Reservations are not taken for breakfast time.
- Location: 7702 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037 I Tel. +1 858 4548 409 I Menu I Find on Map
- Reviews: What fellow breakfast lovers are saying
- Reservations: Only walk ins for breakfast
- Price Range: $$
Be-lavie Recommendations: the lemon ricotta pancakes with blueberries that pop in your mouth with a Mexican mocha, bringing a comforting spicy chocolatey warmth.
Blue Whale, La Jolla
Great for: Breakfast/Brunch/ All day drinks
A very cute surf style cafe which serves coffees, healthy blended drinks, pastries as well as some fantastic brunch options. It’s also a great place to stop off for a drink in between exploring La Jolla.
The white washed, La Jolla, ‘house’ is simple with white walls and dark brown chairs and tables but has the Californian, coastal vibe thing going on. There is seating inside and a few tables on the porch area as well as the street right outside.
They do a range of speciality teas and coffees such as Mayan Mocha, Lavender latte or Throat Coat and Liquid Sunshine tea. Breakfast items range from build your own superfood bowls to French toast or breakfast Burritos to mention a few.
- Location: 834 Kline St, La Jolla, CA 92037 I Tel. +1 858 3526 580 I Menu I Find on Map
- Reservations: Do not take Reservations
- Price Range: $
Be-lavie Recommendations: The cold blended drinks, French Toast, smoothies and functional lattes are delicious.
Puesto La Jolla
Great For: Casual Lunch & Dinner
Puesta is great for couples and families alike. They have a nice casual vibe and the artisanal Mexican food is delicious. The decor is fun and colourful, it’s perfect if you love tacos, small plates and sharing sides. Vegans and vegetarians are well catered for here with considerable choice. Puesto also serves a few types of craft Margaritas. Although there is no ocean view here, there is some pleasant patio seating. There are also Blue corn tortillas for those who have a gluten-allergy.
- Location: 1026 Wall St, La Jolla, CA 92037 I Tel. +1 858 454 1260 I Menu I Find on Map
- Reviews: Read what fellow diners are saying
- Reservations: recommended
- Price Range: $$
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Be-lavie Recommendations: We loved their classic guacamole, coconut or mago Margaritas as well as their Baja-style tacos (the mushroom ones or the Veduras are fab). Don’t miss the mango cake for dessert if you’ve left some room!
George’s at The Cove
We didn’t eat here but were recommended it. Unfortunately we didn’t reserve so wouldn’t have got. a table here anyway. The below is what we were told by friends who have eaten here.
Located across the road from La Jolla Cove Beach, Georges, has three floors which focus on different concepts and menus.
The Ocean Terrace is the rooftop which has the best ocean views is a great lunch spot, whilst the second floor is more of a bar area serving cocktails with happy hour deals. The lower floor is more suitable for dining experiences.
There is a $50 surcharge to be seated at the tables against the glass with panoramic views of the Cove. It’s essential to make a booking as naturally George’s does get busy, especially at weekends and holidays.
- Location: 1250 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037 I Tel. +1 858 454 4244 I Menu I Find on Map
- Reviews: Read what fellow diners are saying
- Reservations: Essential
- Price range $$$
Where to Stay in La Jolla
La Jolla has a wonderful array of hotels to stay in but note, there are no huge resort-style complexes. It’s filled with more beach-front or boutique hotels.
We didn’t’ stay at these hotels however we did throughly research them when looking for where to stay in San Diego. They were also recommended to us by friends who live in the city. The below is from our research.
La Valencia Hotel (Luxury)
Located just across the street from La Jolla Cove, on Prospect Street. It has been here for over 95 years. It’s known for its pink exterior and Spanish-tiled tower and is quite the landmark in La Jolla. We’d refer to it more as old-world luxury.
Guests can choose form vintage style, old-world rooms to suites and villas which are beyond spacious and have ocean, garden or village views. The hotel has a striking outdoor pool, fitness centre and spa pool
La Valencia’s prime location in La Jolla makes it perfect for shopping, eating out and discovering the area in more detail. Food and drinks at the hotel represent the flavours of the coast and include; Mediterranean, inspired by the California coast with seasonally driven, locally sourced ingredients; La sala, a beautiful cocktail bar with stunning ocean views, poolside dining as well as in-room dining options.
- Location: 1132 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037 I Tel. +1 855 4766 870 I Map Location
- Details: Check in: 16:00 Check Out: 11:00
- Reviews: See what other guests are saying
- Breakfast: Yes, served in the Mediterranean Room for an extra fee
- Family Friendly: Yes, Suites and villas are perfect for families
- Dog Friendly: Yes, a $50 fee per night fee applies to all poochies
- Parking: Overnight valet parking is offered to guests for $30 and day time is charged at $18
Pantai Inn (Mid-Range)
Pantai Inn, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, is a unique boutique hotel which covers a taste of Balinese style accommodation literally steps from the pacific ocean and many of La Jolla villages amenities.
Hospitality is said to be very welcoming and reminiscent to that in the east at Pantai Inn, with the decor offering Balinese serenity and a great place to relax. Think spacious suites, quipped with full kitchens, rain shoes as well as lange balconies. Handcrafted furnishings and textiles that add a touch of relaxation to the atmosphere of the property.
There is no restaurant service, except for breakfast but guests are in a great location to sample all the restaurants in La Jolla village and the ensuite kitchens are great for cooking.
WIFI is fast and parking is complimentary which is a bonus.
- Location: 1003 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037 I Tel. +1 858 2247 600 I Map Location
- Details: Check in: 15:00 Check Out: 12:00
- Reviews: Read what other guests are saying
- Breakfast: Yes, included in daily rate
- Family Friendly: Yes, Suites are large enough for small families.
- Dog Friendly: No, dogs are not permitted here.
- Parking: Complimentary
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa (Mid-Range)
This resort-style boutique hotel with 210 guest rooms, a little over the room count we’d usually include but the service and vibe is quite unique, starting at deluxe rooms right up to estate and presidential suites. Some room classes also come complete with ocean views.
The resort puts emphasis on wellness with its serenity spa and activities on offer.
All guest rooms are bright and spacious, decorated in neutral tones with blue and stone accents. Some have balconies allowing the outdoors in with garden views or views of the pool.
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa has two restaurants; Mustangs & Burros is the resort’s signature restaurant, featuring Baja coastal-inspired cuisine with a Southern California twist. The second restaurant is Greenfinch, where breakfast and lunch are served. It has a open-air balcony overlooking the resort’s lush Garden Courtyard.
- Location: 9700 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037 I Tel. +1 858 4120 500 I Map Location
- Details: Check in: 15:00 Check Out: 12:00
- Reviews: Read what other guests are saying
- Breakfast: Yes, extra fee, served at the Greenfinch Restaurant between 07:00-22:00 (brunch)
- Family Friendly: Yes, Suites are large enough for small families and kids menus available
- Dog Friendly: Yes, dog friendly rooms are available and they even do special menus as well as dog sitting services.
- Parking: Yes. Valet parking is $48 per night and self-parking is $40 per night for overnight guests.
The Best Photography Locations in La Jolla
If you’re planning to capture some lovely images in La Jolla, we’d recommend early morning or golden hour as a great time to avoid light bleaching. Many areas will be quieter in the morning Here are a few locations we think make memorable photo spots if you like shooting instagram style content.
- La Jolla Shores Beach
- The Tide Pools
- La Jolla Murals
- Cute beach-style hut cafes like Blue Whale
- Scripps Pier (sunset)
- La Jolla Cove
FAQ How to Best Spend One Day In La Jolla
Is La Jolla Worth Visiting?
The simple answer is Yes. We would recommend setting a day aside to spend some time to discover a different side of San Diego which has a Spanish twist. It’s also a great place to discover upmarket properties, gorgeous beaches, a great community vibe as well as delicious dining outlets.
What is The Main Reason Visitors Head to La Jolla?
One of the main reasons is due to its beaches. Many tourists flock to La Jolla for the cove, which is a hot spot for photography when visiting San Diego.
How Far is La Jolla From San Diego?
La Jolla takes around 30-35 minutes to reach by car in moderate traffic from downtown San Diego. It does take slightly less time at 20-25 minutes from San Diego International Airport.
ShouLd I Choose La Jolla Or Coronado Island?
We were in two minds about which one to visit but decided to head to both as we had the time.
Just like La Jolla, Coronado Island is a must-do day trip from San Diego city. Both places have their own draws. It really does depend on individual
In our opinion, Coronado is perfect if you love dreamy romantic beaches, easy and walkable locations yet feel like you’re on a island being surrounded by water.
La Jolla is more for the adventurous who love to explore coves, partake in water sports and hike. There is a personable coastal community vibe.
Both Coronado and la Jolla have the laid back California vibe, as well as great boutique shops, museums and fab places to dine. Although we woudl say that La Jolla does feel pretty upmarket and fancy with its dining spots and coastal properties.
Is Parking Expensive in La Jolla?
There are car parking lots in La Jolla which charge $10-$20 per day depending upon vicinity to attractions but if you visit on a Sunday then street parking is free!
How To Spend One Day In La Jolla Round-Up
We hope this guide has helped you to plan the perfect one day La Jolla. It is possible to stay for longer but most people will either base themselves here for three days and take a beach or coastal break or they tend to come for the day from San Diego city. La Jolla is not short of things to do for all ages, from parks, the cove, museums and culture to street art, shopping and of course wonderful restaurants. It’s a wonderful way to experience a coastal community vibe so close to San Diego downtown yet be able to breathe in that sea air and have a slice of the So Cal
Related Reading To One Day In La Jolla
- The best quirky boutique hotels in San Diego
- Great breakfast and coffee places in San Diego
- The best Vegetarian-Friendly Food in San Diego
- How to spend one day on Coronado Island, San Diego
- How to best send one day in La Jolla
- The Ultimate Guide to The Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego
Resources To Plan Your Trip
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