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Things to do in La Jolla

Itineraries for Your Trip to La Jolla

La Jolla locals share their perfect days.
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3 Days in La Jolla for Foodies

Curated by Jenna Scatenawho would move to La Jolla for the food if she could.

La Jolla boasts one of the San Diego region’s most varied dining scenes and boasts numerous award-winning restaurants. As a former Southern California resident, I’ve always loved visiting La Jolla for weekend getaways—especially when I’m looking for dining with a view! I recommend trying a little bit of everything. The town may be small, but it offers over 200 restaurants to choose from. You’ll find fine dining options ranging from French bistros to sushi bars, and delicious casual spots where you can hunt for the perfect burger or taco. The ocean views at some of the spots I found make the experience all the more rewarding.

Coastal La Jolla’s weather is generally mild with low humidity; pack a sweater for cooler nights.

If you only have time for one thing, make it the Marine Room.


Day 1

On your first day, begin your trip with a delicious brunch at a standout like Barbarella, the Cottage, or Sugar and Scribe. Afterwards, take a long walk along the coast and learn about La Jolla's artistic heritage.

Refuel with a coffee from one of the many seafront cafes, then explore the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego. Alternatively, if you're drawn to the great outdoors, explore the local slot canyons and enjoy stunning views from the cliffs.

In the evening, hit the Marine Room for dinner to enjoy some of La Jolla’s best seafood and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Day 2

On day two, start your morning with a kayak tour of the local sea caves, working up an appetite as you glide through the La Jolla Underwater Park and Ecological Reserve. You may see everything from dolphins and sea lions to leopard sharks in their natural habitat.

For brunch, head to a local favorite, like Duke’s or Shorehouse Kitchen, or to the luxurious Mediterranean Room at La Valencia. Then take a beachside stroll or book a Segway tour that takes you up and down the area’s beautiful hills.

In the evening, enjoy a seaside meal at Eddie V’s Prime Seafood or George's Ocean Terrace.

Day 3

Start your last day by stretching on the sand with a morning yoga class plus with a guided meditation and enjoy the fresh, salty ocean air.

When you’ve worked up an appetite, Parakeet Cafe, Brockton Villa, or the Coffee Cup Café will offer a hearty breakfast. Alternatively, grab one of Cheese Shop's sandwiches, find a nice spot on the shore to eat, and then catch some waves. A small-group surfing class will teach you the fundamentals (or help refresh your memory if it's been a while).

For your last meal, sample La Jolla's best Mexican cuisine at Puesto or Bahia Don Bravo, the perfect end to your Southern California trip.

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