La Jolla Cove is a small cove surrounded by sandstone cliffs and one of the most popular beaches in the La Jolla neighborhood. The water there is calm and the beach offers some gorgeous scenery of the ocean, making it a great spot for tourists looking to relax in the sand. However, what the cove is most well-known for is the sea lion population. La Jolla Cove is one of the best places in the area to see seals and sea lions, who frequent the waters around the beach. If you do visit, keep in mind that the cove is part of San Diego’s underwater nature reserve, so it’s illegal to do any fishing or even take seashells from the beach.
The beaches of La Jolla are some of the most beautiful and popular in the state and extend far beyond just La Jolla Cove. La Jolla Shores Beach is one local favorite, especially among swimmers and snorkelers, while experienced surfers prefer the larger waves of Windansea Beach.
Beyond the gorgeous beaches, the neighborhood of La Jolla is also known for its art galleries, museums, restaurants, and shops. Nicknamed “the Jewel,” La Jolla is one of the most popular tourist destinations in San Diego and features something for everyone, from the La Jolla Historical Society to the Birch Aquarium. While you’re there, make sure to stop at Bobboi Natural Gelato for the best gelato on the West Coast, drawing from traditional Italian styles but with fresh Californian flavors and ingredients.
To make the most of your next trip to the Jewel of San Diego, check out our La Jolla Cove Self-Guided Driving Tour. More prolific travelers might be interested in Action+, a subscription service that grants access to over 100 tours for a single yearly price, including La Jolla and more.
