
La Jolla Underwater Park
Explore vibrant kelp forests and diverse marine life in this protected San Diego underwater sanctuary. Kayak sea caves & snorkel with rays!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

La Jolla Underwater Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore vibrant kelp forests and diverse marine life in this protected San Diego underwater sanctuary. Kayak sea caves & snorkel with rays!
"Awesome place to visit and have some underwater fun! and for those wild life lovers, this is a place to enjoy!"

🚗 Beat the Parking Hassle
Arrive early or late; weekdays are best. Consider parking further out and walking.
🤿 Bring Your Own Snorkel Gear
For comfort and hygiene, bring your own equipment if possible. Rentals are available nearby.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Abundant Marine Life
Kelp Beds & Artificial Reefs
Witness incredible biodiversity, from graceful bat rays to vibrant fish, in this protected underwater sanctuary.

La Jolla Caves Kayak Tour
Coastal Caves
Paddle through sea caves and enjoy stunning coastal views on an exhilarating kayak adventure.

Snorkeling the Clear Waters
Shallow Reef Areas
Explore the underwater world at your own pace, encountering fascinating sea creatures in the accessible snorkeling spots.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Parking & Crowds
Gear Up for Underwater Adventures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Beat the Parking Hassle
Arrive early or late; weekdays are best. Consider parking further out and walking.
🤿 Bring Your Own Snorkel Gear
For comfort and hygiene, bring your own equipment if possible. Rentals are available nearby.
🛶 Kayak Tour Prep
Be ready for an ocean workout! Tours are fun but can be physically demanding.
☀️ Check Ocean Conditions
Always check the weather and ocean conditions before heading out for water activities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beat the Parking Hassle
Arrive early or late; weekdays are best. Consider parking further out and walking.
🤿 Bring Your Own Snorkel Gear
For comfort and hygiene, bring your own equipment if possible. Rentals are available nearby.
🛶 Kayak Tour Prep
Be ready for an ocean workout! Tours are fun but can be physically demanding.
☀️ Check Ocean Conditions
Always check the weather and ocean conditions before heading out for water activities.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beach Area
The adjacent beach area is often dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the abundant marine life and the stunning coastal scenery at La Jolla Underwater Park. The kayak tours to the sea caves are a highly recommended adventure, offering unique perspectives and fun. While parking can be a significant challenge, the overall experience of exploring the underwater world and enjoying the beach is overwhelmingly positive.
"Awesome place to visit and have some underwater fun! and for those wild life lovers, this is a place to enjoy!"
Ana Dealvarez
"Not enough words to describe how awesome this place was. We did snorkling on our own and felt so safe because so many people were helpful. we saw so many Batrays amazing creatures and We did do a Kayak tour to La Jolla caves be ready for a workout if you have never kayaked in the ocean. Parking is a little challenging. The area has parking within the neighborhood but the earlier you get there the better. Beach was really nice."
edgar labastida
"Super cool place to visit if you're ever in San Diego. I came here to visit with a friend for a quick trip and the vibe was nice. I really enjoyed the beach and the history around it. It doesn't get too crowded and it's pretty clean. There are a lot of stores around where you can rent various aqua gear like kayaks, snorkeling equipment, surfboards, etc. Plenty of quick bites nearby as well. Great vibe in the San Diego area"
Chuks C-M.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
La Jolla Underwater Park is located in La Jolla, San Diego. You can drive and find parking in the neighborhood, though it can be challenging. Public transportation options are available, but driving is often the most convenient.
Parking is notoriously difficult, especially on weekends. Your best bet is to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Street parking is available but fills up quickly. Some visitors suggest parking a bit further away and walking.
Yes, several bus routes serve the La Jolla area, making it accessible via public transport. Check with the local transit authority for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.
Yes, you can access the snorkeling areas directly from the shore at La Jolla Cove and other points within the park. This makes it easy for independent exploration.
From downtown San Diego, take I-5 North and exit onto La Jolla Village Drive. Turn left onto Torrey Pines Road, then right onto Prospect Street, which leads into the heart of La Jolla. Follow signs for La Jolla Cove.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, La Jolla Underwater Park is a public marine reserve and does not require tickets for entry. You can explore the park and its surrounding areas freely.
While entry to the park itself is free, there may be costs associated with parking, kayak rentals, or guided tours.
As a natural marine reserve, the park is accessible during daylight hours. However, specific tour operators or rental shops will have their own operating hours.
Yes, there are several shops in the La Jolla village area that rent out snorkeling equipment, kayaks, and surfboards.
Many visitors snorkel on their own and feel safe due to the helpfulness of others. However, always be aware of ocean conditions and currents. Kayaking in the ocean requires more experience and caution.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see a variety of marine life, including bat rays, leopard sharks, sea lions, seals, and numerous species of fish. The kelp beds are teeming with life.
Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular ways to explore the underwater park. Kayaking to the sea caves is also a highly recommended activity.
Yes, numerous companies offer guided kayak tours that explore the sea caves and provide insights into the local marine ecosystem and history.
For snorkeling, a swimsuit and rash guard are recommended. For kayaking, wear comfortable clothing that can get wet and water shoes. A wetsuit might be advisable depending on water temperature.
Yes, there are public restrooms and shower facilities available near the beach areas, which are convenient after water activities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the village of La Jolla, adjacent to the park, offers a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.
While there aren't designated picnic areas within the immediate underwater park, you can enjoy picnics on the nearby beaches or grassy areas overlooking the ocean.
You'll find diverse culinary options, including seafood, Italian, Mexican, and American cuisine. There are also plenty of quick-bite spots for a casual meal.
Many restaurants in La Jolla offer stunning ocean views, providing a beautiful backdrop to your dining experience.
La Jolla is known for its upscale dining, so some restaurants can be pricey. However, there are also more affordable cafes and casual eateries available.
📸 📸 Photography
The coastline offers dramatic cliffs and ocean vistas. The sea caves from a kayak or the shoreline, and the marine life itself, make for fantastic photo opportunities.
Yes, if you have waterproof camera equipment, you can capture the underwater beauty. Many visitors enjoy documenting the marine life they encounter while snorkeling or diving.
The 'golden hour' just after sunrise or before sunset provides beautiful, soft light for landscape and wildlife photography. Midday can be harsh but is good for capturing the vibrant colors of the water.
Generally, photography is allowed, but be mindful of private property and respect wildlife. Avoid using flash photography directly on marine animals, as it can disturb them.
A waterproof camera or a GoPro is ideal for underwater shots. For land-based photography, a wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the kayak tours can be strenuous, some families might find them suitable for older children who are comfortable with physical activity. Alternatively, simply enjoying the beach and watching the sea lions and seals from a distance can be a huge hit with kids. Remember to pack plenty of sun protection and snacks, as facilities can be limited.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you want to snorkel, bringing your own gear will save on rental costs. For those who want to kayak, compare prices between different rental shops and tour operators. Weekday visits often mean fewer crowds and potentially better deals on rentals. Parking can be a challenge, so consider walking from a slightly further spot to avoid paid lots if available.
💑 Couples
Enjoying a leisurely snorkel together, discovering the underwater world side-by-side, can also be a unique bonding experience. Afterward, explore the charming village of La Jolla for a romantic dinner with ocean views. The relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty make it an ideal spot for a couples' day trip or a romantic getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Underwater Ecosystem
When snorkeling or diving, keep an eye out for the iconic leopard sharks, which are often seen in the shallow waters, especially during certain times of the year. Sea lions and seals are also frequent visitors, often seen lounging on the nearby shores or swimming playfully in the water. Remember to maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife to ensure their well-being and your safety.
For those who prefer to stay above water, a kayak tour offers a unique perspective. Paddling through the sea caves allows you to witness the power of the ocean and the unique geological formations. Guides often share fascinating insights into the history and ecology of the area, making it an educational and adventurous experience.
Kayaking Adventures and Cave Exploration
Be prepared for a workout, especially if you're new to ocean kayaking. The waves and currents can add an element of challenge, but it's also what makes the experience exhilarating. Paddling into the caves, you'll be amazed by the acoustics and the way the light filters through the water, creating a magical atmosphere.
It's important to book tours in advance, especially during peak season, and to check the weather and ocean conditions. Some tours may have age or experience restrictions, so it's wise to inquire beforehand. The views from the water are spectacular, offering a different vantage point of the La Jolla coastline.
Snorkeling and Diving Opportunities
When snorkeling, you'll likely encounter a variety of fish, bat rays, and possibly even leopard sharks. The kelp forests are particularly fascinating to explore, offering a glimpse into a thriving underwater ecosystem. Many visitors report feeling safe and enjoying the experience due to the helpfulness of other visitors and the generally calm conditions in designated areas.
For scuba divers, the park offers more advanced exploration opportunities, including the underwater canyon. It's recommended to dive with a buddy and be aware of local conditions. Rental gear is available, but bringing your own can ensure a better fit and comfort.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit