Places to visit in La Jolla

THE 30 BEST Things to Do in La Jolla, CA (2025)

Places to Visit in La Jolla

Check out must-see sights and activities:
La Jolla Cove, La Jolla Shores Park, Kayaking Tours, Beaches. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Top Attractions in La Jolla

These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveller reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.

Tranquil coastal escape in an upscale neighborhood with tide pools, sea life encounters, and serene coves ideal for family-friendly exploration and picnics by the sea.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Popular beach in La Jolla Shores with warm waters and ideal surfing conditions. Enjoy kayaking, dining, and seal sightings. Parking can be challenging.
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Elevated memorial with personal tributes to armed forces, featuring panoramic views and a central cross for contemplation and reflection.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Pristine beach known for striking sunsets, rock formations, and tide pools. Popular with surfers; ideal for photography and people-watching. Can be less crowded if visitors stroll further.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Coastal aquarium featuring local marine life, interactive touch areas, and a notable sea horse exhibit. Highlights include tide pools and a view of the coast. Emphasizes educational experiences.
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Tranquil beach spot ideal for observing seals and sea lions in their natural habitat, with a scenic walk to La Jolla Cove. Closed during pupping season to protect wildlife.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
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Other Top Attractions around La Jolla




*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

What travellers are saying

  • Jennifer T
    25 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This was my second visit here, but the first on my own. This visit, I took the bus and then walked down to the ocean. The waves were pretty massive due to an incoming storm. I loved watching the seals and sea lions frolicking in the sea, not caring whether the waves hit them or not.
    Written 9 March 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Haize W
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    La Jolla Shores is a beautiful spot in San Diego and I spent a good time with my family. Every time I come down to San Diego I always come visit here because it's my favorite beach here!
    Written 5 February 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Beth S
    South Lake Tahoe, CA487 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    In your GPS, put in the Memorial, not the mountain. We went on a sunny clear day. It is humbling to walk among the plaques of our brave and valiant military personnel. The view is breathtaking from the top and you can see the ocean and the San Diego basin. When visiting, be aware the temperature many be different and their may be wind; so come prepared.
    Written 22 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Oulisse
    Potsdam, Germany917 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Early one wonderful sunny morning, sitting on a bench, Oulisse happened to meet the cheerful Beth for a little chat, above the stunning beach. The residents spent their morning jog, sometimes strenuously, sometimes relaxed, parallel to the high waves of the incoming tide, to say nothing of the dog. The rays of the morning sun, still warm in November, broke on the crests of the waves. It is not easy to leave the place on this day.
    Written 13 November 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • csquared04
    Pine Bush, NY27 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We had a great time but it was very small for the price. We used a Go City pass luckily. The exhibits were beautiful and nicely maintained. The touch tanks were nice and the kids enjoyed getting to touch the things inside. The penguins had a cool spot where the kids got to get up close to them in their enclosure. It took us maybe an hour to go through with an 8 and 5 year old. Would recommend but don’t expect to spend a lot of time here.
    Written 11 August 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Sammy A
    Wasaga Beach, Canada17 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    It was absolutely amazing to see sea lions that closely and was a beautiful area and view
    I definitely will go there again
    Written 22 August 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Mike D
    Vancouver Island, Canada40 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Couldn’t really see the caves from the top of the cliff. Needed to get at an angle to see them. It would be better from the water. The bird life was interesting as were the seals.
    Written 5 May 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Maria
    Albuquerque, NM3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great open air market with tons of food options and fresh vegetables/fruits. Nice area. Has a clean bathroom available. Very good time!
    Written 27 July 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Clarence And G
    San Diego, CA565 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We attended for the SECOND YEAR IN A ROW, the La Jolla Concours d'Elegance!!! It was wonderful from start to finish!!!

    We started off again with breakfast at Harry's Coffee Shop, but this time we took a LYFT, there and back. It was much better than trying to find a valet stand close to the entrance!!!

    I walked 3/4 of a mile, seeing all sorts of historic, old valuable automobiles!!! Rolls Royces, Bentleys, Ferraris, Mercedes AND MORE.

    EVEN A CLASSIC BRONCO!!!

    It was a cool, OVERCAST DAY. We got a brief air show, including a COAST GUARD HELICOPTER. We even saw a yacht in the ocean.

    When we left, I needed the assistance of a GOLF CART to get to the top of the hill, and I asked a certain female in charge at the front. SHE TOOK MATTERS IN HAND, and walking up and down found one for me.

    THIS WAS A GODSEND!!!

    For someone who has a disability and a walker, AND MORE GOING ON!!!
    Written 22 April 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Jennifer T
    25 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    beautiful beach, but a challenge to get down to due to some massive rocks at the bottom of the staircase. If you go, wear sturdy shoes and be prepared to either take them off when you get to the beach or don't be afraid to get wet. Walking along the shore is nice, but walking on the rocks and exploring the tide pools is nicer. This is also a great place for bird watching and to see some snowy egrets catching their lunch.
    Written 9 March 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • DiogenesInSD
    San Diego, CA10 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great theater that often gets shows right before they head to Broadway. Great opportunity to see them without having to go to NYC! Very friendly staff, too!
    Written 11 April 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Jonathan Phan
    447 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The University of California, San Diego (UCSD) offers a dynamic and picturesque campus environment that is perfect for both academic pursuits and social activities. The modern architecture, as seen in the background of the image, blends seamlessly with the natural beauty of the surrounding trees and open spaces. The campus is bustling with students, some riding scooters, which adds to the lively and youthful atmosphere. The clear blue sky and well-maintained grounds make it an inviting place to study, relax, and connect with fellow students. UCSD truly provides a vibrant and engaging setting for higher education.
    Written 14 February 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above attraction descriptions. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information.
Reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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