La Jolla Cove - Newborn seals near tourists in La Jolla, California
1 / 10

La Jolla Cove

4.8
·4k reviews·San Diego, United States

A protected marine reserve famed for its abundant sea lions, seals, and stunning coastal scenery. Perfect for wildlife viewing, snorkeling, and scenic...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
Loading map...
La Jolla Cove - Newborn seals near tourists in La Jolla, California

La Jolla Cove

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A protected marine reserve famed for its abundant sea lions, seals, and stunning coastal scenery. Perfect for wildlife viewing, snorkeling, and scenic walks.

4.8
(4k reviews)

"A true gem of the California coast, delivering peaceful vibes and incredible wildlife encounters every time."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Beat the Parking Rush

Arrive early or be ready to walk from street parking. Free spots can be found on Exchange Pl.

🦭 Respect the Wildlife

Keep a safe distance from sea lions and seals. Never feed them! The smell is natural.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sea Lion & Seal Colony

Sea Lion & Seal Colony

Main beach area and surrounding rocks

Witness hundreds of sea lions and seals basking in the sun. A truly magical wildlife encounter!

Tide Pools Exploration

Tide Pools Exploration

Rocky areas during low tide

Discover fascinating marine life in the natural tide pools. Perfect for curious minds!

Coastal Walkway Views

Coastal Walkway Views

Path along the cliffs

Stroll along the scenic path for breathtaking ocean vistas and stunning sunset views.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Parking Pointers

Parking at La Jolla Cove can be a challenge, especially during peak times. Many visitors suggest arriving early or being prepared to walk a bit from free street parking. Consider the nearby parking garages if street spots are scarce. Reddit

Wildlife Etiquette

La Jolla Cove is a haven for sea lions and seals. While it's exciting to see them up close, remember to maintain a respectful distance and never feed the animals. The strong scent is a natural part of their habitat. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset
Why
Unforgettable golden hour views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Things to do in La Jolla #lajolla #lajollacove #sandiego #sandiegocalifornia #sandiegolife
@twirlliketalia
22K likes • 436.7K views

🚗 Beat the Parking Rush

Arrive early or be ready to walk from street parking. Free spots can be found on Exchange Pl. Reddit

🦭 Respect the Wildlife

Keep a safe distance from sea lions and seals. Never feed them! The smell is natural. Reddit

Do you think I found a San Diego hidden gem or is this a tourist trap? Let me know below👇🏼 Video made in collab with the best @takelifebystorum Things to do in San Diego | La Jolla Sunny Jim’s Cave Store #lajolla #thecavestore #sandiego #sandiegowithkids
@pang__bang
38K likes • 916.7K views
Things to do in La Jolla 📍 La Jolla Cove 📍 Pinpoint Cafe 📍 Scripps Pier 📍 La Jolla Beach 📍 Children’s Pool La Jolla 📍 Coast Walk Trail 📍 Birdseye Rooftop 📍Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave #sandiego #lajollashores #lajollabeach #lajolla #sandiegogram #sandiegoblogger #socal | things to do in la jolla | la jolla places to visit | la jolla San Diego
oursaltymoments
4.7K likes • 142.7K views

🤿 Snorkel & Swim

Clear, calm waters are perfect for snorkeling and swimming with marine life. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking along the coast and potentially down stairs. :athletic_shoe:

Golden hour magic at La Jolla Cove
alec_basanec
6K likes • 139K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Beat the Parking Rush

Arrive early or be ready to walk from street parking. Free spots can be found on Exchange Pl. Reddit

🦭 Respect the Wildlife

Keep a safe distance from sea lions and seals. Never feed them! The smell is natural. Reddit

🤿 Snorkel & Swim

Clear, calm waters are perfect for snorkeling and swimming with marine life. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking along the coast and potentially down stairs. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

La Jolla Cove is widely praised for its stunning natural beauty, abundant marine life, and relaxing atmosphere. Visitors rave about the close encounters with sea lions and seals, the clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and the breathtaking coastal views, especially at sunset. The primary drawback mentioned is the significant challenge of finding parking, and some note the strong natural scent from the wildlife.

"I love this place. So much enjoyed walking along the cave and watching people and seals. The weather was nice. The pathway, sea and yard is so clean."

Thunchanok Sirikantaramas

"Parking can be tricky, but it’s absolutely worth it!
A perfect spot to see sea lions and seals up close. The relaxing vibe and stunning ocean views make it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy nature.

Must visit place in San Diego"

Snehal’s Horizon

"La Jolla Cove is such a beautiful place with stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s perfect for a walk, watching the sea lions, or just enjoying the ocean. Parking can be a bit challenging, but we found free street parking on Exchange Pl, which made things much easier. Definitely worth a visit!"

Shahabeddin Mohin

What People Like

Abundant sea lions & seals
Beautiful ocean views
Clear waters for swimming

What People Dislike

Difficult parking
Animal scent

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

La Jolla Cove is located in La Jolla, California, about a 20-30 minute drive north of downtown San Diego. You can drive yourself, take a rideshare service, or use public transportation (bus routes are available, though may take longer). Reddit

Parking is notoriously difficult, especially on weekends and during peak hours. There's limited street parking, and some visitors recommend looking on Exchange Pl for free spots. Parking garages are also available nearby. Reddit

Yes, many hotels in the La Jolla area are within walking distance or a short drive to La Jolla Cove. If you're staying in the village, it's a pleasant stroll. Reddit

Walking along the coastal path is the most popular way to experience La Jolla Cove. You can also access the beach via stairs in some areas. Reddit

The main coastal pathway is generally accessible, offering beautiful views. However, access to the beach itself may involve stairs. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, La Jolla Cove is a public park and beach, so there are no admission fees or tickets required to visit. Reddit

La Jolla Cove is open to the public year-round, from dawn until dusk. Lifeguard stations have specific hours, but the general area is always accessible. Reddit

There is no entrance fee to access La Jolla Cove. It's a free public space for everyone to enjoy. Reddit

Dogs are generally not allowed on the beach or in the water at La Jolla Cove to protect the wildlife. They are usually permitted on leash along the paved coastal paths. Reddit

Yes, restrooms are available near the main beach area for visitors. Reddit

🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience

You can expect to see numerous sea lions and seals lounging on the rocks and beach. The clear waters are also home to various fish, and sometimes harmless leopard sharks. Reddit

Absolutely! The clear, calm waters make La Jolla Cove an excellent spot for snorkeling, with abundant marine life to observe. Reddit

Popular activities include watching the sea lions and seals, exploring tide pools, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and enjoying the scenic coastal walk. Reddit

The waters are generally calm and clear, making it safe for swimming. However, always be aware of your surroundings and any posted advisories. Lifeguards are present during certain hours. Reddit

The distinct smell at La Jolla Cove is due to the large population of sea lions and seals. It's a natural part of their habitat. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there are no restaurants directly on the beach, the village of La Jolla, just a short walk uphill, offers a wide array of dining options from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Reddit

Yes, picnic tables are available, making it a great spot for a scenic meal. Remember to pack out all your trash to keep the area clean. Reddit

The village of La Jolla has numerous coffee shops and cafes just a short walk from the cove, perfect for grabbing a drink before or after your visit. Reddit

Many restaurants in the La Jolla village area offer stunning ocean views, providing a lovely dining experience after your visit to the cove. Reddit

You can find a diverse range of cuisine in the nearby village, including seafood, Italian, Mexican, and American fare. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire coastline offers incredible photo opportunities. Focus on the sea lions, the dramatic cliffs, the tide pools, and the ocean vistas, especially during sunset. Reddit

Yes, La Jolla Cove is renowned for its spectacular sunsets. The golden light illuminating the ocean and cliffs creates magical photo moments. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean views and cliffs. A telephoto lens can be useful for getting closer shots of the wildlife without disturbing them. Reddit

Yes, but always maintain a safe and respectful distance. Avoid using flash, as it can startle the animals. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or videography may require permits, so it's best to check with local authorities if you plan professional shoots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

La Jolla Cove is a fantastic destination for families, offering a natural playground and incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. Kids will be mesmerized by the sea lions and seals up close. The tide pools are like nature's aquariums, providing endless fascination. The paved coastal path is great for strollers, and there are picnic tables for easy family meals. Just be mindful of the stairs if accessing the beach directly and ensure children maintain a safe distance from the wildlife. Reddit

Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the biggest crowds and make parking less of a hassle. Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities directly at the cove are limited. The nearby village of La Jolla also offers family-friendly dining options for a post-cove treat.

couples

For a romantic outing, La Jolla Cove offers stunning ocean views and a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coastal path, hand-in-hand, as the sun begins to set, painting the sky with vibrant colors. The sound of the waves and the sight of the sea lions create a uniquely serene backdrop. Reddit

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy with a view, or explore the charming village of La Jolla for a delightful dinner afterward. The cove provides a perfect setting for quiet conversation and appreciating natural beauty together.

Budget Travelers

La Jolla Cove is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers as admission is free. The main expense will likely be transportation and parking. Look for free street parking further from the cove or consider using public transport. Reddit

Pack your own snacks and water to save on food costs. Enjoy the natural beauty, wildlife viewing, and coastal walks, which are all free activities. The nearby village offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes to more affordable eateries, if you decide to splurge on a meal.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring La Jolla's Marine Life

La Jolla Cove is a protected marine reserve, making it a prime spot for observing diverse ocean life. The most famous residents are the California sea lions and harbor seals, which can often be seen lounging on the rocks and beaches. Visitors can get remarkably close, though it's crucial to maintain a respectful distance and never feed them. The clear, calm waters are also teeming with fish, and if you're lucky, you might spot harmless leopard sharks during certain times of the year. The vibrant tide pools exposed during low tide offer a fascinating glimpse into a miniature ecosystem, filled with anemones, starfish, and small crustaceans. Reddit

For those interested in a more immersive experience, snorkeling and diving at La Jolla Cove are highly recommended. The underwater visibility is often excellent, revealing kelp forests and a variety of colorful fish. Kayaking tours also provide a unique perspective, allowing you to paddle along the coastline and explore sea caves. Remember that this is a protected area, so responsible tourism is key to preserving its natural beauty and the well-being of its inhabitants. Reddit

Navigating Parking and Access

One of the most frequently discussed aspects of visiting La Jolla Cove is the challenge of finding parking. The prime locations near the cove fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during holidays. Many visitors report circling for extended periods or having to park several blocks away and walk. Free street parking is available but can be competitive. Some travelers have found success parking on streets like Exchange Place. Reddit

For those who prefer not to stress about parking, consider using a rideshare service or public transportation. If driving, arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can increase your chances of finding a spot. There are also paid parking garages in the vicinity. Once you've parked, accessing the cove is generally straightforward, with paved pathways offering scenic views. Some areas of the beach require descending stairs, so comfortable footwear is a must. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2