Itineraries for Your Trip to La Jolla
3 Days in La Jolla for Families
The origin of the La Jolla name is debated, but whether it comes from Spain, meaning “the jewel,” or the local Kumeyaay word for “place of the caves,” both suitably describe this beautiful seaside town. It's perched between the attractions of San Diego and North County beach towns, but there is plenty to do in La Jolla to keep your family happy and busy without leaving.
My family loves the beaches for surfing, kayaking, and swimming, as well as visiting the Birch Aquarium, walking the University of California San Diego outdoor art collections, and eating as many fish tacos as possible.
Here's how to spend three days in La Jolla.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a sea cave kayak tour.
While cooler mornings and evenings may require a lightweight jacket, the weather is generally sunny and warm year-round.
Get to know La Jolla on a stroll through the city. Check out Legends Gallery, showcasing the artwork of one-time resident Dr. Seuss; the Children’s Pool beach, where you might see the famous seal residents; and Sunny Jim's Sea Cave. Finish off with lunch at El Pescador Fish Market for fantastic seafood.
Save the afternoon for a kayak tour to La Jolla’s Seven Sea Caves. Paddle to Emerald Cave (and hopefully peek inside), explore a giant kelp forest, and get close to marine life, including otters, harbor seals, and sea lions. This is what La Jolla is famous for.
The Orange County coastline harbors countless surfing spots. La Jolla, known for its reliably gentle waves, is a great place to learn. Then, hit up one of the many taco spots in town to chow down on a California burrito (stuffed with carne asada, French fries, sour cream, and guacamole). My favorites include Don Carlos Taco Shop and Rigobertos Taco Shop.
In the afternoon, head to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for memorable cliffside hiking and million-dollar views out to the Pacific. Scope out the slot canyons made by water and wind erosion of the soft sands.
San Diego, filled with great family attractions, is a hop-skip-and-jump away. Head south to check out Old Town San Diego Historic Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, Coronado Island, Balboa Park, and Little Italy. My family loves the hands-on activities at the Old Town San Diego State Park and the magnificent Maritime Museum of San Diego and Waterfront Park across the street.
