Ellen Browning Scripps Park
Stunning coastal park with panoramic ocean views, abundant sea lions, pelicans, and iconic sunset spectacles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Ellen Browning Scripps Park
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stunning coastal park with panoramic ocean views, abundant sea lions, pelicans, and iconic sunset spectacles.
"The panoramic views here are absolutely breathtaking. Getting to see the sea lions that were literally everywhere, however stinky they may be, were still so beautiful & amazing."
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Arrive early for prime sunset spots, especially during 'Scrippshenge'!
🦭 Respect Wildlife
Observe sea lions and pelicans from a distance. Never feed them!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sea Lion Colony
Along the coastline and coves
Witness hundreds of sea lions and pelicans basking on the rocks and shores. A truly wild and unforgettable sight!
Scripps Pier Sunset
Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier
Experience 'Scrippshenge' as the sun perfectly aligns with the pier beams for a breathtaking sunset. Romantic and iconic!
Panoramic Ocean Vistas
Throughout the park
Enjoy sweeping, postcard-perfect views of the Pacific Ocean, dramatic cliffs, and the coastline. Ideal for relaxation and photography.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wildlife Encounters
Sunset Spectacle & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Arrive early for prime sunset spots, especially during 'Scrippshenge'! 
🦭 Respect Wildlife
Observe sea lions and pelicans from a distance. Never feed them!
🚶♀️ Explore the Coast
Walk the scenic paths and discover hidden coves like the Children's Pool.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic to enjoy the stunning ocean views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Arrive early for prime sunset spots, especially during 'Scrippshenge'!
🦭 Respect Wildlife
Observe sea lions and pelicans from a distance. Never feed them!
🚶♀️ Explore the Coast
Walk the scenic paths and discover hidden coves like the Children's Pool.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic to enjoy the stunning ocean views.
📸 Photo Opportunities
This park is incredibly photogenic, especially at sunset.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking panoramic ocean views and the incredible opportunity to see sea lions and pelicans up close, despite their occasional odor. The park is described as clean, peaceful, and a must-visit for its stunning scenery and iconic sunset views, particularly the 'Scrippshenge' phenomenon. While it can get crowded, the beauty and wildlife encounters make it a highly recommended San Diego attraction.
"The panoramic views here are absolutely breathtaking. Getting to see the sea lions that were literally everywhere, however stinky they may be, were still so beautiful & amazing. The park has an area where people were swimming in a cove with some of the prettiest blue/green water and even sea lions were swimming right with everyone, very close I might add! The walk thru the park was clean and very nice views."
BJ Jones
"Definitely a must see if you are in the San Diego area! I was not expecting to see the sea lions out playing around, but it was a nice surprise! The water is very clear for snorkeling or other water activities. The park is nice even though there are larger groups of people. I would definitely recommend for a thing to see around San Diego."
Royal Grubbs
"This San Diego park at the beach offers a truly stunning backdrop for a marriage proposal. With scenic pathways, beautiful landscaping, and sweeping ocean views, it’s a location that guarantees beautiful and timeless memories. I've had the pleasure of capturing many special moments here, including a proposal for a well-known quarterback. If you're planning to pop the question in this perfect spot!"
Jean Marshall Photography
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby, though it can fill up quickly. Public transportation options are also available, with bus routes serving the La Jolla area. Many visitors also enjoy walking or biking to the park, especially if staying in the vicinity. +1
Street parking is available around the park, but it can be challenging to find a spot, especially during peak times. Consider arriving early or exploring nearby parking garages.
Yes, Ellen Browning Scripps Park is within walking distance of many La Jolla attractions, including La Jolla Cove and the Children's Pool. The Coast Walk Trail connects these areas, offering beautiful coastal views.
Walking is highly recommended to fully appreciate the coastal scenery and discover hidden gems. You can also rent bikes or use ride-sharing services to get around. +1
The park features paved pathways that are generally accessible. However, some areas might have uneven terrain. It's always a good idea to check with local authorities for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Ellen Browning Scripps Park is a public park and is free to enter. There are no admission fees.
The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, specific areas or facilities might have different hours. It's best to check local listings for any specific closures or event schedules.
Parking in the vicinity of the park is typically metered or requires payment. Fees can vary depending on the location and time of day.
While the park is a popular spot for proposals and photoshoots, large organized events may require permits. It's advisable to contact the local parks department for specific regulations.
Viewing the sea lions and pelicans in their natural habitat within the park and surrounding coves is free of charge.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy panoramic ocean views, watch sea lions and pelicans, have a picnic, take photos, and walk along the scenic paths. It's also a popular spot for watching the sunset.
The park is famous for its abundant sea lions and pelicans. You might also spot seagulls and other marine birds.
While sea lions are often seen swimming in the coves, it's important to maintain a safe distance and be aware of your surroundings. The water can be clear for snorkeling, but always exercise caution.
Yes, restrooms are available within the park area, and they are generally reported to be clean and well-maintained.
'Scrippshenge' is a natural phenomenon where the sun perfectly aligns with the Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier during sunset, creating a spectacular visual.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within Ellen Browning Scripps Park itself. However, the surrounding La Jolla area offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. It's a popular spot for enjoying a meal with a view.
La Jolla Village, a short walk or drive from the park, has numerous eateries. You can find everything from seafood to international cuisine.
You'll find several cafes and casual eateries in the vicinity of the park, perfect for grabbing a coffee or a quick bite.
Absolutely! Many restaurants in La Jolla offer stunning ocean views, making them ideal for a romantic dinner after visiting the park.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour before sunset and the sunset itself are prime times for photography, offering beautiful light and colors. 'Scrippshenge' is a particularly sought-after photographic moment.
The coastline with sea lions, the Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier, and the panoramic ocean vistas are all highly photogenic. The grassy areas also offer great framing for shots.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's essential to check with the San Diego Parks and Recreation Department for current rules and permit requirements before flying a drone in the park.
Locals often recommend capturing the sea lions at different times of the day and framing the Scripps Pier with the sunset. The Children's Pool area also offers unique perspectives.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean views and landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for getting closer shots of the wildlife. A tripod is highly recommended for sunset photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond the sunset, the park provides stunning coastal landscapes, interesting rock formations, and abundant wildlife subjects like sea lions and pelicans. +1 Experiment with different lenses to capture both the grand vistas and the intimate details of the wildlife. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more appealing atmosphere. ❤️ Couples and Romantics
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters: Sea Lions and Pelicans
+2 Pelicans are also a common sight, often seen perched on the cliffs or gliding over the water. It's crucial to remember that these are wild animals; maintaining a respectful distance is paramount for both your safety and their well-being. Never attempt to feed or touch them, as this can disrupt their natural behaviors and pose risks. The park's coves, including the nearby Children's Pool, are prime spots for observing these animals. You might even see them swimming in the ocean, sometimes quite close to shore. This proximity allows for truly immersive wildlife viewing experiences that many visitors find unforgettable.
The Magic of 'Scrippshenge' and Sunset Photography
The pier's beams act as a natural frame for the sun, casting a warm, golden glow over the ocean and the surrounding landscape. This breathtaking sight draws crowds, making it a popular spot for photographers and sunset enthusiasts alike. +1To capture the best of this moment, it's recommended to arrive well before sunset to secure a good vantage point. The golden hour leading up to sunset also offers incredible lighting for photography, with soft, warm tones that enhance the natural beauty of the park.
Wide-angle lenses are ideal for capturing the expansive ocean views and the grandeur of the pier, while telephoto lenses can be useful for focusing on the wildlife or the intricate details of the sunset. A tripod is highly recommended for stable shots during the low-light conditions of sunset. Exploring the Coastal Pathways and Views
+1 Visitors can stroll, jog, or simply find a quiet spot to relax and soak in the breathtaking scenery. The park is meticulously landscaped, with lush green lawns and vibrant flora that complement the natural beauty of the cliffs and sea. These pathways connect to other notable La Jolla landmarks, such as La Jolla Cove and the Children's Pool Beach, making it easy to create a comprehensive coastal itinerary.
+1 The park is a versatile destination, suitable for families looking for a safe place for children to play, couples seeking a romantic backdrop, or solo travelers wanting a peaceful retreat. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit