Top 10 California Coast Vacations: La Jolla

Stunning cliffs. Crashing waves. Hidden coves. Just north of San Diego, La Jolla is a charming seaside town with luxurious, boutique-style lodging, incredible beaches and first-rate shopping. In all – it’s the iconic California coast getaway.

The beaches of La Jolla aren’t as populated as those in San Diego. Rather, they offer a more serene ambience and let the stunning natural surroundings leave a lasting impression. Towering sandstone cliffs and rock formations frame the azure waves rolling onto the sand. One of the most photographed beaches in Southern California, La Jolla Cove is also great for snorkeling and SCUBA diving. Dive down to explore the La Jolla Underwater Ecological Preserve, a protected underwater preserve; or, see the incredible underwater life without getting wet at the Birch Aquarium. You can learn to surf at the La Jolla Shores, which features smaller waves.

With the business district right by the ocean, you’ll never lose the scent of salt in the air. Go right from the sand to the shops and restaurants: La Jolla offers everything from luxury apparel stores to an organic cupcake shop!

Things to Know

Related Onsite Offerings

La Jolla features a variety of breathtaking golf courses, right along the shoreline.

Highlights

Being right on the shoreline, La Jolla offers some of the freshest seafood served in restaurants ranging from fine dining to casual fare.

Fun facts

The community of La Jolla began with Cornelio Rodriguez, an accomplished potter who came here looking for a suitable site to start a pottery works!