Shell Beach in La Jolla

A View Of Stunning Shell Beach

The highlights of Shell Beach in La Jolla aren't what you typically think when you think beach.

Rather than being a spot for lounging in the sun or splashing in the ocean, Shell Beach is better known for its tide pools and, not surprisingly, the many lovely sea shells that wash up on shore.

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The Tide Pools

Shell Beach Resident Hermit Crabs

These tide pools are home to a medley of creatures.

There are literally hundreds of hermit crabs to be seen out in the open, as well as other small crabs that scurry between crevices.

Shell Beach is a fantastic place for kids to check out the local marine life. I loved this beach as a child and each time I visit there are always a handful of excited kids running around set on discovering the resident creatures.

A Friendly Crab Scurrying Along

A group of sea anemones also call these tide pools home. If you go to the northern end of the beach you're likely to find them open and beautiful hiding below some sea foliage.

I think these may be the most stunning you can find in San Diego--they are around three inches in diameter with striking purple and blue hues, just like flowers under the sea (unfortunately I couldn't get any good photos of them, guess you'll just have to go see for yourself).

Note that you need to visit at low tide to see the tide pools, otherwise they're completely under water.

On The Sand

A View Of The Shoreline

The whole beach is a strip that stretches for about sixty yards, so there's space to relax on the sand if you'd like.

Shells pretty typically line the shore as well, making it a cool place to stroll and see what you can find among them.

In The Water

Swimming and surfing is actually prohibited at this beach due to the dangerous break, so if that's on your beach agenda it's better to head to La Jolla Shores.

How To Get Here

The Stairs Leading To Shell Beach

Shell Beach is just south of La Jolla Cove.

Just park in the vicinity and head toward the concrete path that overlooks the ocean. You should see the stairs that lead down to the beach.

Other Tide Pools

If you've finished exploring the tide pools at Shell Beach in La Jolla, you can always head south to the larger tide pools in Ocean Beach.

Those guys give you a lot of ground to cover!

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