La Jolla, California: The Jewel of the Coast

Kayak through the sea caves: Glide across turquoise waters into sandstone-carved caves tucked into the cliffs of La Jolla’s Ecological Reserve. Guided tours take you through mysterious arches and into caverns like the famous Clam’s Cave—often while sea lions bark nearby and dolphins play in the distance.

Torrey Pines Golf Course: A bucket-list destination for golf lovers, Torrey Pines is perched atop dramatic coastal cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Home to the PGA Tour’s Farmers Insurance Open and two US Opens, its South Course challenges even the pros, while the North Course offers stunning views with a slightly more forgiving layout. This public course delivers world-class play with ocean breezes, native Torrey pines, and unforgettable sunsets—making it one of California’s most iconic and scenic rounds.

Stroll along the Coast Walk Trail: Hugging the cliffs between La Jolla Cove and the Cave Store, this easy walking trail is a local gem. Benches dot the path for moments of reflection, and you’ll catch everything from pelicans gliding on ocean thermals to paragliders drifting from the Torrey Pines cliffs in the distance.

Visit the La Jolla Tide Pools: Time your visit with low tide and wander the rocky shoreline near Shell Beach or Hospital Point. You’ll spot brilliant sea anemones, spiny urchins, and scuttling crabs tucked between sculpted stones—perfect for nature lovers and young explorers alike.

Watch the seals at Children’s Pool Beach: Once built to create a protected swimming area, this small cove has been lovingly overtaken by seals and sea lions. From the seawall, you can observe them basking in the sun, nursing pups, or flopping into the waves—a uniquely wild encounter right in town.

Explore Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave: Enter through the historic Cave Store, where a century-old tunnel leads down 145 steps into Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave—the only sea cave in California accessible by land. The opening is shaped like a cartoon character’s head, giving it its whimsical name and making it a must-see piece of La Jolla’s lore.

Shop and dine in the village: Prospect Street and Girard Avenue offer a stylish blend of coastal charm and California elegance. Browse independent boutiques, curated home-goods shops, and designer galleries before settling into a terrace café or seafood restaurant with sweeping ocean views.

Tour the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (La Jolla Campus): Recently expanded and set dramatically against the ocean, this museum merges art and architecture seamlessly. Explore provocative exhibitions, sculptures in the outdoor garden, and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the horizon like a masterpiece.

Relax at Windansea Beach: Iconic for its natural rock formations and legendary surf breaks, Windansea is where locals go for golden hour photos and soulful sunsets. The rustic surf shack—built in 1947—still stands as a beloved symbol of La Jolla’s surf culture. Bring a blanket and stay for the evening glow.

Catch a sunset from Ellen Browning Scripps Park: Perched on a bluff just above the cove, this lush green park is often named one of the most photographed spots in San Diego. With its winding paths, soaring palms, and uninterrupted ocean views, it’s the perfect place to watch the day fade into night.

The Marine Room: A legendary La Jolla experience where waves crash dramatically against the windows during high tide. Expect elegant seafood, impeccable service, and oceanfront romance that’s pure California drama.

La Valencia Hotel—THE MED: Located inside the iconic “Pink Lady,” THE MED pairs Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with panoramic terrace views. Perfect for brunch, champagne cocktails, or golden-hour bites with a live pianist in the lounge.

George’s at the Cove: A three-level culinary destination. Grab a table at Ocean Terrace for casual fare and sweeping views, or book California Modern for seasonal dishes and elevated SoCal style.

Eddie V’s Prime Seafood: Classic steakhouse ambiance meets polished seafood presentation. Known for its buzzing cocktail lounge, ocean views, and indulgent menu—from shellfish towers to filet mignon.

Brockton Villa: A historic beach cottage with character and cove views, beloved for its cinnamon-y “Coast Toast” and hearty breakfast plates. A local favorite for weekend brunch or a casual lunch overlooking the seals.

The Spot La Jolla: A longtime neighborhood hangout offering burgers, fresh fish, and friendly vibes. Think coastal comfort food, cold drafts, and the kind of relaxed charm only an old-school local joint can offer.

Nine-Ten Restaurant & Bar: Tucked inside the Grande Colonial Hotel, Nine-Ten delivers sophisticated farm-to-table fare with California creativity. Come for the short rib, stay for the sticky toffee pudding—and don’t skip the wine pairings.

Catania: Sleek and sunlit, this rooftop Italian eatery is known for handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and Aperol spritzes with a view. It’s stylish but unfussy—perfect for a long lunch or laid-back dinner.

Beaumont’s Eatery: A lively bistro with live music, neighborhood energy, and a great bar scene. While just south of the main Village in Bird Rock, it’s well worth a visit for eclectic American eats and a vibrant locals’ vibe.

Wayfarer Bread & Pastry: A beloved Bird Rock bakery turning out crusty sourdough, flaky kouign-amann, and the kind of laminated pastries that inspire devotion. Grab a coffee and pastry to go, or linger at a sidewalk table with the scent of fresh bread in the air.