A village packed with whimsical shops fronts a rocky coastline, while golf courses look down from tall cliffs in this jewel of San Diego’s seaside towns.
La Jolla is without question deserving of its nickname “Jewel by the Sea.” From the clear-blue Pacific Ocean to its secluded bays, caves, and pristine parks, it really is a coastal town that shines.
You only need to take a stroll along the seafront trails to find out what to do here. La Jolla Cove and La Jolla Caves are natural treasures and perfect if you want to witness the underwater magic on a snorkeling excursion. Look for anemones, crabs, and starfish in the tidal pools. You won’t be alone either because harbor seals and sea lions come to bask on the rocks. If you like your activities to be more adventurous, go surfing at the southern beaches.
Drag yourself away from the beach for a day for some inland sightseeing. La Jolla Village has you covered. Start with a journey into the past at the La Jolla Historical Society and then browse the village shops, which range from the brand-name and high-brow fashion stores on Girard to the local shops on Ivanhoe. Indulge in an extended brunch, or embrace the bar scene at the daily happy hours. Sharing the palm tree-lined streets are independent galleries showcasing artworks created by artists that draw inspiration from the area’s landscapes.
Find such landscapes at the impressive Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Gaze up at sandstone cliffs while walking the beaches and trails once traversed by the Kumeyaay people. These cliffs are natural bastions whose existence is constantly being challenged by the sea and the Earth’s shifting crust. Now that’s certainly worth a moment or two of contemplation. You can tee off from the top, too, but be careful not to let the views affect your swing.