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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in La Jolla

Scenic views and fun activities

An afternoon spent moving through the landscape with a clear line of sight to the horizon.

Based on 801 Opinions
+798
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Updated May 2026
01
Ellen Browning Scripps Park image 1

Open coastal park offers spectacular ocean views and peaceful walking trails with lush greenery. Visitors often watch sea lions playing nearby and enjoy picnic areas with shade and grills. The atmosphere stays calm and relaxing, making it ideal for unwinding by the water.

Spectacular beach views include sea lions and seals swimming nearby. The park offers incredible vistas that create a wonderful atmosphere for walks.

Watching sea lions, seals, and otters provides fun and engaging wildlife moments. Walking along the boardwalk and exploring the park offers enjoyable family activities in a beautiful setting.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful ocean views and sunsets here."

"The ocean views here are simply beautiful and stunning."

"I had so much fun watching the sea lions and seals."

Good to know

1

The park hosts summer concerts every Saturday at 6pm.

2

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Free parking is available for up to three hours.

02
Seal Rock image 1
Scenic spot

Rocky coastline offers breathtaking ocean views and close encounters with seals in their natural habitat. The atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, with fresh air and the sounds of waves and seabirds. Visitors find the spot tranquil and scenic, ideal for unwinding and observing wildlife.

Stunning coastal views showcase waves, seals, and pelicans. European-style cobblestone streets and ocean-view cafΓ©s add to the charming scenery.

A gorgeous spot offering safe close encounters with seals. The area feels a bit rough but adds to the fun experience.

People are saying

"I loved the stunning sea views here."

"I enjoyed the awesome, expansive views of the blue Pacific."

"It's a fun place to get up close to seals safely."

Good to know

1

Parking at Seal Rock is difficult on a Sunday afternoon.

2

Arrive early to secure a parking space at Seal Rock.

3

There are no lifeguards on site, so swim at your own risk.

03
La Jolla Shores Park image 1

Large beach with spectacular ocean views and a spacious grassy area creates a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. Lifeguards and fire pits add to the safe, relaxed vibe. The park feels well-maintained and perfect for quiet afternoons or casual gatherings.

Spectacular Pacific Ocean views stretch across a large, clean beach with soft sand. Coastal walks offer sights of sea lions and both sunrise and sunset views add to the stunning scenery.

Waves and a playground offer fun activities for all ages. Games, bars, and rides add to the lively atmosphere for family or friends to relax and enjoy.

People are saying

"The beach here is really clean and felt safe."

"I enjoyed the stunning ocean views here."

"It's a fun spot with awesome waves and outdoor areas."

Good to know

1

Parking at La Jolla Shores Park is limited, especially on weekends.

2

Free parking is available, but it can fill up quickly.

3

Public restrooms are located near the parking lot.

04
Concrete Steps to the Beach image 1
Tourist attraction

Concrete steps lead down to a clean beach with clear water and natural sandstone formations. The area offers peaceful ocean views, tide pools rich with sea life, and occasional sea lions nearby. Visitors find it ideal for relaxing, picnics, and watching sunsets in a serene setting.

Breathtaking ocean views meet unique rock formations along paths by the shore. Cliffs, waves, and fresh air create a peaceful, beautiful setting perfect for photos and quiet moments.

Exploring tide pools offers a lot of fun with interesting sea life to see. Playing in the water adds to the overall enjoyment of the activities.

People are saying

"The ocean views here are beautiful and peaceful."

"The beach here is beautiful with natural sandstone formations."

"The scenic views here are beautiful and peaceful."

Good to know

1

Parking may be an issue, so bring patience.

2

The beach is free to access.

3

Timing your visit is important to see the best marine life.

05
La Jolla Tide Pools image 1

Coastal tide pools reveal clear water and diverse sea life like crabs and fish, creating a family-friendly environment. Gentle waves break on rocks under scenic views with easy access from nearby parking. The atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, with people strolling or sitting quietly by the ocean.

Breathtaking views of waves crashing against rocks and seals lounging nearby create a scenic coastal scene. The horizon stretches wide, offering beautiful ocean vistas perfect for enjoying with family.

Exploring the tide pools offers a fun, free way to find little creatures and shells. Crab hunting adds a catch-and-release thrill, while chasing waves brings extra excitement for kids.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly place to explore tide pools and see marine life."

"Exploring the tide pools is a fun activity for spotting sea creatures."

"The scenic views here are breathtaking, with crashing waves."

Good to know

1

Parking near the tide pools is easier on weekdays than weekends.

2

Getting there early helps secure parking spots.

3

There is free street parking available.

06
La Jolla Caves Snorkel & Watersports image 1
Water sports equipment rental service

Water sports equipment rental offers top quality gear including wetsuits, drybags, and waterproof phone cases, with sizes for all ages. The atmosphere is chill and family-friendly, supported by knowledgeable guides who highlight local wildlife like sea lions and colorful fish. The experience includes calm, shallow waters and excellent customer care, with extras like snacks, towels, and flexible gear return.

Offers fantastic views of the coast and beautiful ocean scenery. The setting provides lovely views ideal for enjoying the water surroundings.

Snorkeling offers a fun, family-friendly introduction with a stress-free, patient approach for beginners. Staff go above and beyond to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

People are saying

"Alex made our snorkeling tour fun and stress-free, even for beginners."

"The staff is so patient and friendly with kids."

"I learned so much from Alex, my amazing local guide."

Good to know

1

All the gear is in great shape and quality.

2

Parking can be very difficult, so plan ahead.

3

The snorkeling adventure is suitable for all ages.

07
Cuvier Park image 1

Park offers spectacular ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere with gentle waves and ocean breeze. Large green space invites families and children to explore tide pools and enjoy picnics. Seating areas and photo spots add to the relaxing, scenic experience.

Sweeping, majestic ocean views dominate the scene with waves and surfers adding to the picture. Sunsets and sunrises create spectacular views complemented by a serene atmosphere and fresh sea breeze.

Large open spaces offer room for picnics and play with children. The clean beach and tide pool area provide extra spots for fun activities.

People are saying

"The ocean views here are beautiful and spectacular."

"It's a beautiful place for kids to explore and wander."

"I enjoyed the beautiful ocean views and spectacular sunsets."

Good to know

1

Cuvier Park hosts many wedding ceremonies, especially on weekends.

2

Parking at Cuvier Park is often difficult; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Visitors should be cautious of seals and avoid bringing food due to aggressive behavior.

08
Children's Pool La Jolla image 1

Beach features cliffs and walkways overlooking seals resting on rocks and crashing waves. Atmosphere is laid back and relaxing, with beautiful sunset views and a family-friendly vibe. Visitors often watch wildlife from benches and stairs leading down to the water.

Crowded but civilized beach offers a fun cove to watch young seals play in the surf. Visitors spend hours enjoying the wildlife and ocean views.

People are saying

"I loved watching the seals and sea lions sunbathing on the beach."

"I loved the scenic views of the seals and sea lions."

"It's so much fun watching the seals and sea lions play!"

Good to know

1

Access to the beach is closed during winter months because of the sea lions.

2

Parking can be challenging at the Children's Pool La Jolla.

3

The beach has seasonal closures, so plan ahead to ensure it is open.

09
Kellogg Park image 1

Open space with beach access and ocean views creates a relaxing atmosphere. Grassy areas and a playground attract families and picnickers. The vibe shifts from peaceful to lively with music and crowds near the sand.

Views of the ocean and beach stand out with breathtaking and spectacular sights. The area feels spacious and offers a chill atmosphere alongside clean surroundings.

Offers fun beach activities and amenities that make day trips easy. The setting is picturesque and great for family fun with kids.

People are saying

"Parking available, but you might need to arrive early."

"It's a fun place for kids and families at the beach."

"I loved the breathtaking ocean views here."

Good to know

1

Parking is free, but it can be challenging to find a spot during the day.

2

Arrive before 8am to secure a public parking space near the park.

3

The park has a great kids' playground right on the beach.

10
Black's Beach image 1

Clothing-optional beach with steep cliffs and a man-made stair path offers stunning ocean and paragliding views. Atmosphere feels peaceful and free, with a respectful community and strong connection to nature. Access requires a challenging hike, making it less suited for families or those with mobility issues.

Ocean views dominate the scene with sights of beaches and water all around. The hike down offers gorgeous cliffside vistas and high ground perspectives that impress even in cloudy weather.

Fun atmosphere and good waves make it a spot for adventurous cruising. The place offers a consistently fun experience for visitors.

People are saying

"It's a clothing-optional beach, so be prepared to see nudity."

"The high ground offers breathtaking, stunning panoramic ocean views."

"I found this place to be a fun place with good waves."

Good to know

1

Black's Beach is a nudist spot and not family-friendly.

2

There are no facilities or restrooms, so bring water and snacks.

3

Access to Black's Beach is difficult with steep trails.

11
Torrey Pines Golf Course image 1
Public golf course

Golf course stretches along the coast with stunning ocean views and dramatic elevation changes. Atmosphere balances beautiful, forgiving landscapes with challenges for skilled players. Paragliders often add a unique visual element above the course.

Spectacular Pacific Ocean views dominate the golf course, offering a stunning backdrop throughout. The layout includes a fun back nine with elevation changes that enhance the scenic vistas.

The North Course offers a fun back nine with elevation and great views. It plays a bit easier but stays semi-challenging and provides an enjoyable round with friendly staff.

People are saying

"The ocean views here are absolutely stunning and breathtaking."

"The ocean views here are stunning and worth the trip."

"It's a fun course with amazing views and a great golf experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least 90 days in advance to secure a tee time.

2

Non-residents pay $117 for a round of golf, plus $65 for a cart.

3

Tee times are scheduled every 10 minutes, so arrive early.

12
Sea Cave image 1
Tourist attraction

Dimly lit cave offers beautiful coastal views and a unique peek at the ocean through cliffs. The area hosts sea lions and pelicans, with kayakers frequently passing by. Steps leading down can be wet and slippery, and parking tends to be challenging and costly.

Beautiful coastal views appear from both inside the cave and the cliffs above. Waves crash below while sunlight streams in, creating a stunning ocean scene visible after descending long stairs.

Exploring the Sea Cave offers a unique adventure with a walk down 145 steps through a tunnel. Kayaking in the ocean adds another layer of fun activities guided by knowledgeable and kind staff.

People are saying

"The ocean views from the cave are beautiful."

"I found the experience here to be a raw, unique wonder."

"You'll love the beautiful ocean views and seeing sea lions."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult; arrive early to find street parking.

2

Entry fee is $16 per person to visit the cave.

3

Proper footwear is recommended due to wet and slick steps.

13
The Cave Store image 1
Tourist attraction

Steep, slippery stairs lead down to a small deck inside a sea cave with beautiful ocean views and the sound of crashing waves creating a relaxing atmosphere. An adorable gift shop at the top offers unique finds and a friendly dog. The space feels like a hidden treasure with a cool, refreshing cave interior.

A path next to the store offers a panoramic view of the water and city. The deck provides a spectacular view, while inside the sea cave, bright colors and colorful rocks create breathtaking scenes.

A fun and unique adventure involves descending 145 steps into a sea cave. Wearing tennis shoes is important for safety during this quirky and memorable experience.

People are saying

"Walking down into the cave and being inside with the ocean splashing was so cool."

"I thought the scenic views were worth the $13 ticket price."

"I found the experience to be a fun little adventure."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is $10 for adults and $6 for children.

2

Check the tide schedule before visiting, as the cave is only accessible during low tide.

3

Expect long lines and a one-hour wait during peak times.

14
Sunny Jim's Sea Cave image 1
Tourist attraction

Wooden stairs descend through a narrow, damp cave to a small deck overlooking the ocean. Crashing waves create a peaceful sound inside the cave, offering breathtaking ocean views. Visitors navigate low ceilings and wet, slippery steps in a space with a historic tunnel dug over a century ago.

Breathtaking ocean views shine through the cave opening, creating a memorable sight. Waiting outside offers stunning views and the top vantage point provides an even nicer perspective.

Exploring the historic stairway down to the sea cave offers a unique and fun experience. Arriving early helps avoid lines and makes the visit more enjoyable.

People are saying

"The cave is surprisingly Kid Friendly, just watch the wet stairs."

"Exploring the cave was a fun and unique adventure."

"The scenic views from the cave opening were really cool."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is $10 per person.

2

Wear non-slip shoes as the steps can be wet and slippery.

3

The cave has a maximum capacity of six people.

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La Jolla, San Diego

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