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Marine life meets California cool in La Jolla, a chic San Diego suburb known for its multimillion-dollar mansions perched above the rocky shores of a protected marine reserve. Travelers can enjoy a sea life encounter at the Birch Aquarium, or eschew the walls entirely at La Jolla Cove, a popular breeding site for California sea lions. For a break from beach-combing, downtown La Jolla offers an array of things to do, from upscale shopping to oceanfront dining.
La Jolla is blessed with near-perfect weather year-round. When and how to visit depends on your choice of outdoor activity: getting out on the water in summer, hiking coastal trails in spring, and golfing any time of the year. Winter is not a lost cause in La Jolla, either. It’s chilly with a chance of rain, but December to February is also whale-watching season, when gray whales pass by on their migrations. They make the return trip in mid-March.
As is the case with most beach towns, cars and bikes are the most efficient way to get around. La Jolla Village, however, lends itself to walking—among tide pools, between beach coves, and along posh shops on the waterfront. Most public transportation converges on the University of California, San Diego campus, situated just south of Torrey Pines Golf Course, with regular bus service and the San Diego Trolley system’s Blue Line leading the charge.
The beach town of La Jolla exudes an earnest surfer vibe charm. But beyond the sand, there’s a worthwhile art and culture scene. The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego has a branch next to Wipeout Beach. Iconic Warwick’s on Girard Avenue is one of the oldest family-run bookstores in the US. And the La Jolla Playhouse puts on Tony Award-winning musicals on the campus of the University of California, San Diego.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone PDT (UTC -8) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 10 | Tours 41 | Reviews 2,643 |
La Jolla, a coastal city in San Diego, is known for its upscale atmosphere, seaside scenery, world-renowned beaches, excellent restaurants, and boutique hotels. There are nice shopping centers and art galleries, too. More than 300 days of sunshine make it an ideal destination for sun-seeking tourists.
...MoreLa Jolla is a coastal city known for its well-kept beaches and history as a resort area. To appreciate the natural beauty of La Jolla, walk along the shores of Windansea Beach, explore Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave, or view sea life in the Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
...MoreStart your day with a walk or bike ride along La Jolla’s coastline. From there, stroll through the famous La Jolla Cove and have a picnic lunch with views of the Pacific Ocean. Conclude with sunset views at La Jolla Cove.
...MoreYes, La Jolla is worth a visit. From beaches to restaurants to shopping, there’s plenty to do in this coastal San Diego city. Immerse yourself in culture at La Valencia Hotel or Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego in La Jolla. Enjoy the sunset while walking along Scripps Pier.
...MoreExplore La Jolla with a leisurely hike or ride along its bike trails, which offer up views of ocean cliffs. Those looking for something more thrilling can try sea kayaking, scuba diving, or surfing, while others can stroll through one of La Jolla’s art galleries or quaint village shops.
...MoreYes, La Jolla has a downtown. Referred to as the village center by locals, this area houses retail stores, restaurants, cafés, and entertainment venues. It’s perfect for visitors who want to explore the city’s offerings without having to drive. La Jolla’s downtown is becoming an increasingly popular destination.
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