Welcome to La Jolla, California!

On a clear day, you would be hard pressed to find a place more beautiful than La Jolla, California. I go to school in La Jolla, so (to my delight) quite a bit of my time is spent in the area.

The surf, the views, the restaurants, and, of course, the beaches draw so many people, including me, to La Jolla.

You can use the following links to get to what interests you quickly, or you can just scroll down to see what La Jolla holds.

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Beach-Goers

Family Time

Attractions

A Few La Jolla Attractions

Although the beaches are the premier attractions for me in La Jolla, the area has so much more that draws me to it.

Between the mix of art, academia, opportunities for exploration, and special events, La Jolla is the kind of place that constantly keeps you curious.

This is a place to visit if you're at all interested in marine life, or if you have kids who are Finding Nemo fans (I was once witness to a little girl excitedly pointing her mother toward Nemo and Marlin).

A large array of aquatic species, outdoor interactive tide pools, plus an environmental education section of the building make Birch Aquarium a cool place to learn.

I found this place magical as a kid and I still find it educational as an adult.

Mount Soledad

The Memorial Itself...Pretty Stunning, Huh?

Mount Soledad is a veteran's memorial located atop one of the highest points near the sea.

It's marked by a large, white cross (which has been quite a point of controversy) and polished walls bearing the names and photos of a few hundred veterans.

Not surprisingly, given its location, it boasts one of the most beautiful views in San Diego. Looking north or south gives you a postcard image of the San Diego coastline.

There's a very peaceful, almost serene, atmosphere around the memorial. It's worth visiting if you have a chance to make it.

La Jolla Half Marathon

Triumphant After Finishing The Race

I ran this race in 2010 and it was awesome. It's put on every year in April, and it's a blast whether you're racing or spectating.

The course stretches from Del Mar to La Jolla, meaning it's near impossible to find a more beautiful course.

In addition to the thousands of runners, thousands of people line the course to hang out and cheer them on.

In a nutshell, the La Jolla Half Marathon has a very positive and energitic atmosphere that welcomes the San Diego community out to enjoy the scene.

For Beach-goers

If you're looking to soak up some rays here you have several options. There are three main beaches, each with its own feel, and each of which is briefly described below. Additionally, La Jolla is home to a few other fun seaside sites for the viewing. Feel free to scroll down and check them out.

La Jolla Shores

Taken before settling in to do homework one day

La Jolla Shores is the largest of the three, and probably the best La Jolla beach to visit with the family. It's an extremely relaxed place with tons of space and a park (with a playground included), making it great for kids.

More generally, it's a good destination if you're looking for a little calm (this place is calm enough that I come here to do homework whenever I can).

For the most part La Jolla Shores attracts a pretty mellow crowd and, no matter the season, usually you can find a little slice of sand to claim as your own to kick back on for a day.

If you're visiting during summer the place will be busy. Parking can be a bit of a pain, but it's totally worth it for a day here.

I deem this beach as a good place to hang out with friends or family, and a good place to learn to surf (I learned to surf here).

Sound like a place for you? Visit my page on La Jolla Shores to learn more.

La Jolla Cove

Told you it was beautiful :)

The beach at La Jolla Cove is rather small, but it is extremely lovely. But the Cove isn't known for being a good beach destination. Rather, it's a scenic destination.

The area that overlooks the Cove itself is spacious and grassy, pretty much ideal for picnics. People really come here to view the beauty of the place and take some time to relax surrounded by it.

The Cove is made all the more attractive by its location in the middle of downtown La Jolla, which is home to many of La Jolla's renowned restaurants and shops.

Many also take the opportunity to walk to the "Children's Pool" down the street, which now is a gathering place for seals and one of the most popular La Jolla attractions (maybe we should think about changing the name on that one...).

If you would like more information on this place, please visit this page on La Jolla Cove.

Wind N Sea

Snapped before napping on this peaceful beach

Wind N Sea is more tucked away than the other beaches. Really, most people don't even know it's there, which still shocks me to this day considering how gorgeous this beach is. How can the word not get out?

Due to the general lack of people though, the beach is mostly quiet, making it perfect for a day of relaxation.

Downside? The waves are pretty intense, so it's not ideal if you're looking to splash around.

However, experienced surfers flock to the place as its known for having some of the best surf in San Diego.

To find out more, visit this page on Wind N Sea.

Shell Beach

Taken while walking down to the beach

Shell Beach is just south of La Jolla Cove right along Coast Boulevard.

This little stretch of sand is known for its tide pools and, of course, its namesake shell-covered shores.

It's not necessarily a good place for swimming, but it's awesome if you want to check out the local sea life.

Fun with the Family

La Jolla Shores

I adored La Jolla Shores as a child. I just remember it seemed like such an exciting place to have fun with my parents and brothers.

A sunny day at La Jolla Shores

If a day with the family is in store, heading to La Jolla Shoresis a good plan.

My love of this beach hasn't changed with age, I've just changed my beach time activities up a bit.

This La Jolla beach particularly provides a medley of activities that are enjoyable for family members of all ages, whether interests lie in building sand castles or in shredding waves, climbing on a jungle gym or kayaking.

Birch Aquarium

Cute Kids Exploring The Tide Pools At Birch

Birch Aquarium is just a few miles from La Jolla Shores, and it is a great place to take kids. With an interactive environmental education room and interactive tide pools, children can learn a little something about their world hands on.

The large tanks and the variety of sea life they contain make for a marvelous display that both parents and children can enjoy.

I loved this place when I was a kid. It absolutely captivated me with all of the creatures to see and information to absorb.

On a recent trip to the aquarium, I had the pleasure of seeing that same wonder in the eyes of every child in sight. I guess some things don't change much.

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