La Jolla is one of the most unique and beautiful sections of San Diego and absolutely worth a visit if you’re in the area. Nicknamed “The Jewel,” this hilly seaside community is well-known for its art scene, museums, history, and stunning beaches – among the most popular in southern California. Whether you’re hoping to relax by the ocean or explore a local cultural center, there’s something for everyone in La Jolla.
First things first, any trip to La Jolla should start at one of the neighborhood’s world-famous beaches. The most popular beach in the area is La Jolla Cove Beach, which features relatively calm water and plenty of sea lions. If you want to get up close and personal with more marine life, we recommend stopping by the La Jolla Underwater Park to meet some leopard sharks, manta rays, and more. Children’s Pool Beach, which has calm water and a granite seawall protecting it, might be the most comfortable place for families with small children.
La Jolla is also known for its surfing, and we definitely recommend giving it a try while you’re there. Beginners should stick with La Jolla Shores Beach, which has more mellow waves, while experienced surfers can head straight to Windansea Beach for some more exciting curls.
If you’ve had your fill of the beach, check out some of La Jolla’s museums. Some of our particular favorites include the Maps and Atlas Museum, a free museum that features antique maps, the Museum of Contemporary Art, featuring great works by post-war artists, and the La Jolla Historical Society. For more art, we recommend taking a tour of the La Jolla Murals, privately funded public artworks from local artists.
To make the most of your trip to La Jolla, 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.
