A Weekend Guide to La Jolla Cove

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When I picture glamorous California towns, La Jolla is one of the first that comes to mind. Like many oceanfront places perched on prime Pacific real estate, La Jolla is well known for its luxe neighborhoods. However, on my first visit, I was most surprised by its laid back and friendly atmosphere. The La Jolla coastline is incredibly accessible to visitors and offers many unique ways to interact with the wildlife found here. These are my favorite things to do on a weekend in La Jolla Cove.

Things to do in La Jolla Cove

You don’t have to look far to find fun things to do in La Jolla. Start your itinerary right on the coast to take full advantage of La Jolla’s main attraction. Best of all, many of the top things to do in La Jolla Cove are completely free.

Observe the La Jolla Cove Seals

Children’s Pool Beach is the best place to see the harbor seals. Originally constructed for families, this manmade beach is actually closed to the public during pupping season because the seals take it over. Although they aren’t the most active animals, I love watching them! And I think the crowd of people spectating their nap would agree.

Harbor seals at the children's pool beach in La Jolla

Go Tidepooling in La Jolla

There are several walkable spots to observe the tide pools along Coast Boulevard. The most popular is tucked by the Coast Guard Station at Point La Jolla. There are staircases that lead from the main walkway down to the sandy cove. Time your visit right so that you can walk through the sea cave to explore even more tide pools. Don’t forget a snorkel and goggles to get the closest view possible.

Spot La Jolla Cove Sea Lions

Different than the harbor seals mentioned above, the sea lions are much more active and vocal. To find the sea lions, head to Point La Jolla behind the La Jolla Cove Bridge Club. There is a small public staircase that leads out to the rocky bluffs where the sea lions hang out. There is no supervision or roped off area that separates visitors from the sea lions. I was initially shocked to see people wandering next to the sleeping creatures, but it ended up being one of my favorite experiences in La Jolla. Like my Instagram to see just how close you can get to these pinnipeds! As always, use common sense and respect the wildlife so that future visitors can enjoy the same up-close experience.

Kayak La Jolla Cove

La Jolla has seven sea caves, most of which are only accessible by kayak. The kayaks are nearly a constant sight in La Jolla Cove because it is doable year-round. Although I didn’t get to experience it this time, on my next visit I will be doing a kayak and snorkel tour combo to experience the cove above and below the water.

Descend into the Sunny Jim Sea Cave

For a truly unique experience, head to the Cave Store on Coast Boulevard. Five dollars will allow you to descend 145 steps through a narrow passage to the Sunny Jim Sea Cave. I thought it was well worth the history and the quirkiness of the experience.

Enjoy a Sunset with a View

Part of La Jolla’s prestige comes from its spectacular coastal sunsets. I loved my stay at the La Jolla Cove Hotel & Suites because of the stunning rooftop view. Check out my full post on why this is the best place to stay in La Jolla. Plus, get a special booking discount! The sunset view alone will be worth it.

Silhouette of girl raising arms overlooking sunset in La Jolla Cove.

Best La Jolla Cove Restaurants

In La Jolla, you will find classic Cali fare with plenty of healthy menu options that take full advantage of the local produce. Additionally, with Tijuana only minutes away, La Jolla boasts some of the best and most authentic Mexican food.

Coffee Cup Cafe I found this by chance wandering La Jolla Village. Check out the specials of the day for delights like strawberry-mango pancakes.
Puesto Although Puesto isn’t unique to La Jolla, it is my new favorite Mexican restaurant. I cannot put into words how good the tacos are!
Jose’s Courtroom More delicious Mexican fare. I loved the tortilla soup and queso dip.
Bobboi Natural Gelato Before my visit, I did not realize that gelato was such a commodity in San Diego. I enjoyed Bobboi’s original, local flavors.

Save Money with Go San Diego

La Jolla Cove is the prime spot for exploring greater San Diego. However, before you purchase any activities, check Go San Diego to see if you can bundle your passes! (Not an affiliate, just super useful!) There is an all-inclusive pass option as well as a build-your-own option. I saved money by building my own pass with the USS Midway and San Diego Zoo tickets. The pass was super easy to use. I just downloaded the app and scanned my ticket at the attraction entrances. There are even La Jolla Cove kayak experience options as well!

That sums up my favorite things to do in La Jolla. If any of these have inspired your La Jolla Cove bucket list or if you have any questions, I’d love to know in the comments below!