La Jolla translates as “the jewel” in Spanish, named by Spanish settlers in the 1700s. La Jolla is tucked away on the ruggedly magnificent Pacific coast, with seven miles of ocean bluffs and sandstone cliffs, stylish boutiques, and elegant outdoor restaurants. La Jolla makes for a wonderful, laidback vacation.
La Jolla
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The ideal time to visit La Jolla is during the summer months, when you can take full advantage of the city’s most notable attractions: the breathtaking beaches and coves. Late summer, particularly end of September, has the finest weather, hottest water temperatures, and less tourists.
TOP TIPS
— You’ll see the most seals on the beach between the last week of April and the first week of June. Babies are born between Feb 4 and March 4.
— The best place in La Jolla to see the sunset is near Bird Rock.
— The beach parking lots fill fats during the summer, so get there early.
–To avoid disappointment, make reservations for top restaurants well in advance.
WHAT TO SEE
LA JOLLA SHORES PARK
One of the largest and most liveliest beaches in La Jolla, with gentle waves during the summer months, making this spot a prime spot for novice scuba divers and surfers.
BIRCH AQUARIUM
On display are brightly colored tropical species as well as small sharks and pufferfish. One of their most popular attractions is the large range of cute seahorses that live in the tanks.
LA JOLLA MARKET
This huge open-air farmers’ market is excellent for the wide range of hot food vendors providing anything from pizza to vegan cuisine, plus local art for sale.
VISIT THE SEALS & SEA LIONS
La Jolla is home to many seals and sea lions. The major viewing place is at the Children’s Pool which is located at the end of Coast Blvd.
DID YOU KNOW…?
La Jolla is home to the world’s largest yearly gathering of leopard sharks. Locals and visitors alike travel to La Jolla Shores Beach every summer to swim, snorkel, kayak, and dive with sharks.
WHERE TO STAY
DOWNTOWN
- Inn By The Sea La Jolla (see on Trip Advisor)
- Empress Hotel of La Jolla (see on Trip Advisor)
BEACHFRONT
- Pantai Inn (see on Trip Advisor)
- La Jolla Shores Hotel (see on Trip Advisor)
LUXURY HOTELS
- The Lodge at Torrey Pines (see on Trip Advisor)
- La Valencia Hotel (See on Trip Advisor)
TOURS TO BOOK
5 Free things to do in La Jolla
- Spend time at La Jolla Cove -La Jolla Cove is a great little beach near Scripps Park that is famous for snorkeling and is close to many seals and sea lions.
- La Jolla Murals – The reputation of La Jolla as an artistic beach town extends beyond its excellent local gallery. Many beautiful murals have popped up around the neighbourhood, and the city has begun to provide art walking tours to assist visitors locate them all.
- La Jolla Tide Pools -This long flat rock plain is dotted with little pools filled with a variety of aquatic animals. On weekends, many families come here to search for creatures at low tide.
- La Jolla Walking Trail – Its entrance is near The Cave Store on Coast Blvd. The dirt route follows the shoreline, providing stunning views of the ocean and sea lions. The walk is great, and there are benches to rest on so you can take in the scenery.
- Stuart Collection – The Stuart Collection is an incredible collection of public art to admire on the UC San Diego campus. The sculptures are huge, with some fitted onto existing structures and landscape.
what to eat in La Jolla
Street Tacos
Puesto is a must-visit in La Jolla, serving up delicious Mexican cuisine and a wide variety of street tacos.
Where: Puesto
Oysters
Eddie V’s is famous for its oysters, which go well with crisp white wines and champagne.
Where: Eddie V’s La Jolla
Himitsu
Himitsu serves authentic Japanese food such as classic nigiri sushi and tapas-style meals. The Himitsu Roll and Sashimi Salad are both delicious!
Where: Himitsu
