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31 Best & Fun Things To Do In La Jolla (California)

Visits to La Jolla should be made a part of your San Diego tour schedule. 

Beautiful beaches teeming with marine life,  engaging entertainment, and, of course, a wide range of outdoor activities let you take advantage of the legendary La Jolla’s sunlight. 

Its magnificent beaches and creative residents of this affluent seaside hamlet bring thousands of tourists in search of culture, sun, and sea.

Make sure to include these top things to do in La Jolla, California, on your list, whether you are exploring for a day or staying overnight in the hotels. 

The fact that many of these locations are walkable from one another is another positive.

Below are a few things to do in La Jolla.

Things To Do In La Jolla, California

1. La Jolla Underwater Park

Things to do in La Jolla

Amy Vickerd / Flickr

The San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park is a protected ocean region abundant with marine life.

In this underwater park, you’ll find spectacular kelp, orange garibaldi, leopard sharks, rays, and tons of marine life. 

It may be accessed from La Jolla Shores Beach.

From the beach, you may swim out to investigate it. 

But exploring the park by stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, kayaking, or scuba diving, certainly improves the experience. 

You can fish in some sections here, but you’ll certainly need a license. 

To capture some amazing adventure photographs, bring your camera. While you’re capturing the moments, consider some other pursuits.

Popular outdoor pursuits include snorkeling and kayaking trips.

All of these trips leave from La Jolla Shores.

Additionally, if you visit in the summer when the leopard sharks lay their eggs, you can see the breathtaking display.

If you prefer sightseeing, you may purchase a ticket, go down, view the sea cave, and walk back up in no more than 15 to 20 minutes. 

Although it’s not recommended for shaky walkers due to the stairway’s age and potential for slipping, it’s a fast side trip when seeing the neighboring seals.

Wander around and gulp down all this beauty.

Address: 1160 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, California, United States 

2. Explore La Jolla Shores Beach

Things to do in La Jolla

La Jolla Shores Beach

Of all the teeming exciting experiences to enjoy in La Jolla, you should explore La Jolla Shore Beach.

Since the reefs make the waves break gently most of the time, it’s really one of the greatest locations in San Diego to learn to surf. 

The ocean here is usually great for swimming, but on the north side, you can go surfing as much as you want. 

You may learn how to surf and swim from a number of trustworthy, audacious businesses like Surf Diva.

There’s a playground and a sizable grassy area known as Kellogg Park, close to the shore. 

There, you can hang out or spend some time doing something new.

Afterward, you can stroll to several convenience stores and top-notch eateries in the La Jolla Shores commercial neighborhood. 

Without missing words, this laid-back La Jolla beach neighborhood is a great place to while away an entire day.

On busy days, the parking lot rapidly fills up, so be sure to get there early. 

You can park on the residential streets as well. 

Take photography and crown the day with snacking out.

Address: Calle Frescota La Jolla, CA 92037, United States 

3. Taste Wine at LJ’s Craft Wines

Things to do in La Jolla

Elisabeth Frausto / L Js Craft Wines

This fantastic neighborhood-tasting bar is the ideal place to unwind if you’ve had enough of all the walking, climbing, and watersports La Jolla has to offer.

Come here to sample excellent wines made with Napa Valley grapes.

Relax on a seat and dine on their small plates and cheese selection.

On a beautiful evening, relax at one of the tables by the curb or mingle at the chic bar while sipping your preferred bottles. 

If all else fails, they have a growler service, allowing you to take a sizable container home.

Literally, you should check this out before leaving the city.

Address: 5621 La Jolla Boulevard, San Diego, California 92037, United States

4. Scripps Pier

Things to do in La Jolla

SCBDiego / Flickr

After a time out at La Jolla Shores Beach, stroll to Scripps Pier from there. 

It is one of the biggest active piers on the entire globe. 

Notably, it makes it possible for researchers at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography to keep an eye on modifications in the Pacific Ocean and study marine life. 

Here, you’ll find a total of 1.8 million gallons of seawater pumped to the institution’s tanks from the pier.

Probably, you’re wondering, why go? 

There may be a thousand things you may try; however, this is unique.

First of all, the photography from this setting is unique.

For family photographs, Instagram, and the like, this is one of the most popular locations in La Jolla and the whole San Diego region. 

You can even take a picture fit for a postcard here.

Take one beneath the pylons, close to the pier, or even around sunset.

Occasionally, Birch Aquarium offers public Full Moon Pier Walks; otherwise, walking on the pier is indeed not feasible.

Nevertheless, you should wait to see the sunset.

5. La Jolla Murals

Things to do in La Jolla

La Jolla Murals

Beyond its outstanding neighborhood gallery, La Jolla is known as an artistic beachside community. 

In order to assist visitors in identifying all of the area’s stunning murals, the city has started to provide art walking tours.

Watch out for our La Jolla Murals, a privately-funded community art initiative by the Athenaeum intended to breathe fresh life into our beachside neighborhood.

A variety of outstanding artists painted the artwork that was daubed throughout the alleyways.

It was inspired by numerous current art styles, making it a far cry from ordinary urban graffiti.

They are dispersed on buildings and billboards. 

Notably, the display period for each mural is a maximum of two years. 

Every month on the last Wednesday at 5:30 p.m., the Athenaeum offers 90-minute walking tours that cover about half of the fifteen murals.

To uncover some of these breathtaking pieces of art along the coast, either hire a tour or go exploring on your own.

You’ll uncover some of the most mind-blowing murals on display.

Address: La Jolla, 92037-4418, California, United States 

6. Enjoy a time out at the Sunny Jim Sea Cave

Things to do in La Jolla

Nicole Chop / Flickr

Certainly, the ever-beachy La Jolla offers spectacular attractions.

One of which is the Sunny Jim Sea Cave.

Sunny Jim Sea Cave is the sole sea cave in California that you can approach on land. 

The old wooden ladder that runs to the cave is actually inside the Cave Store on Coast Boulevard in La Jolla Village.

It’s known that the tunnel that connects the sea cave to land took shape around 1902. 

Because it resembled the logo for a British cereal of the same name, Sunny Jim, the cave’s entrance was also given that name.

Indeed, a time out at this cave is one of the best things you can enjoy in La Jolla.

From a platform within the cave, visitors may take in the sound of the ocean and the screaming sea lions. 

Besides, the scenery is also quite wonderful, so you can even take photography sessions around.

Address: 1325 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States 

7. Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego 

Things to do in La Jolla

ArchDaily

La Jolla was founded as an artists’ enclave in 1894, and its soft shoreline and sparkling ocean vistas have long served as an inspiration to artists.

In the 1960s, this avant-garde scene gave rise to the Museum of Contemporary Art, which has since grown to be among San Diego’s top galleries.

This old residence of local benefactor Ellen Browning Scripps is now the location of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD), which has a branch in La Jolla. 

The main collection of the museum comprises several photographs and paintings by various postwar artists.

Not just that, you’ll also find a few ground-breaking pieces by American minimalist artists.

Truly, the modern art collection and the ocean views from here are also amazing. 

Check the schedule to see if there is a free public tour or other comparable events on exhibit.

Not to be missed are the outdoor Edwards Sculpture garden and the Art Lab downstairs, where you may unleash your creativity at your leisure. 

If you come here during nice weather, be sure to stroll through the gorgeous sculpture garden.

Besides, you can even bring your children since this is a family-friendly museum after all. 

Particularly, they’ll like the pop culture paintings, and you can spend the moment rummaging through the museum.

Address: 700 Prospect Street, San Diego, California, 92037, United States 

8. Go snorkeling at La Jolla Cove

Things to do in La Jolla

La Jolla Cove

One of the nicest things to do in downtown La Jolla on a bright day is to view the turquoise sea and beach of La Jolla Cove.

Yes, this part of California’s seas is remarkably clean.

Without a loss for words, this little La Jolla Cove is a powerhouse. 

The cove’s waters are a component of the region’s marine conservation initiative, a meticulously maintained section of the ocean teeming with life.

Here, you’ll find a little beach where you may swim and sunbathe, and on each side, there are rocky outcroppings where sea lions and birds congregate. 

In these turbulent seas, you may explore hundreds of different fish and crustacean species by renting some snorkeling equipment. 

Everything from leopard sharks to barracudas thread through this weedy region of the ocean, making for a genuinely strange experience as you explore the kelp forest.

Literally, this place is a must-see on vacation to La Jolla.

This is because it combines beach and wildlife and provides convenient access to the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park. 

Small tide pools can become visible here when the tides are low.

La Jolla Cove may be enjoyed without being on the sand, though.

For a stroll with the best opportunity to see the ocean and wildlife, there’s a path along the coast loops.

It is around La Jolla Cove and continues south to the Children’s Pool. 

Families and travelers from all around the globe make day trips to downtown La Jolla for this lovely sight.

However, it’s not just about this; the neighboring beaches, the sea lions, and the nearby seals give it a dazzling appearance.

In the warm summer months, seals and sea lions enjoy sunning themselves on the rocks here.

So, if you don’t want to get wet, try nature-watching from the beach instead.

Nevertheless, regardless of what you choose to do, you’ll enjoy it the same.

Address: 1100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States 

9. La Jolla Shores Park

Things to do in La Jolla

La Jolla Shores Park

There are numerous wonderful beaches in La Jolla, but Shores Park is one of the biggest and busiest. 

You’ll find several regular events and parties on the beachfront, as well as an area of the beach designated just for surfers.

If you’re feeling brave, sign up for a scuba diving excursion or check out one of the beachside stores to rent some snorkeling or paddleboarding gear. 

Alternatively, you may simply relax on the sand and observe life as it happens.

However, if the weather is bad, go to one of the numerous cafés or restaurants nearby.

They provide excellent viewing areas for turbulent waters. 

Try the eye-catching Galaxy Taco for margaritas by the ocean or the Marine Room for a chic beach house feel.

Sincerely, what more could you ask for?

Address: 8200 Camino del Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States 

Also, check out some of our best Restaurants in La Jolla to dine at while exploring the best this city offers.

10. La Jolla Historical Society

Things to do in La Jolla

SDVoyager / La Jolla Historical Society

Visit the exhibition halls at the La Jolla Historical Society’s Wisteria Cottage facility. 

This little free museum is located near the beach in the charming Wisteria Cottage. 

When the flowers are in bloom, the garden terraces are extremely lovely, and the museum itself offers a lot of fascinating displays and exhibits.

La Jolla has a long history of serving as a center for artists, and the museum documents the lives of many who were influenced by the lovely shoreline of the region.

The hours of most exhibitions, which are normally open from Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 4 p.m., pay homage to the individuals, occasions, and architectural elements that helped build La Jolla into the thriving neighborhood that it is today.

Watch out for their two main annual events as well. 

The Secret Garden Home Tour allows you to have a peek inside stunning old and modern La Jolla homes with exquisite gardens. 

Additionally, La Jolla Cove hosts the La Jolla Concours d’Elégance, a vehicle event that honors vintage cars and draws spectators from all across Southern California and beyond.

Then, learn about the town’s well-liked walking tour routes or enquire about La Jolla’s stunning architecture.

Address: 7846 Eads Avenue, San Diego, California, 92037, United States 

Looking forward to exploring more cities in California? See our list of things to do in Orange County, Big Bear Lake, and Fresno!

11. Ellen Browning Scripps Park

Things to do in La Jolla

Martina M / Ellen Browning Scripps Park

Roam the Ellen Browning Scripps Park if you’re looking for something informative in La Jolla.

The Truffula trees in Dr. Seuss’s The Lorax, one of La Jolla’s most well-known residents, The Lorax, are considered to have been inspired by the windblown trees in this large field of grass.

It’s a nice spot for picnics, frisbee, dog walks, yoga, and other activities, and it is rarely too crowded unless a big event takes place there. 

Belvederes, which are adorable small green cottages, line this beachfront route, making it a great place to hang out.

This park abuts La Jolla Cove and the small beaches there. 

Come look at the sea or simply come sunbathe.

Address: 1100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States 

12. Taste Oysters at Herringbone Restaurant

Things to do in La Jolla

Herringbone Restaurant

If you want to shell out, La Jolla has a superb range of world-class fine-dining restaurants that draw in many wealthy foodies.

Even the toughest critics have nothing but praise for The Herringbone, which is particularly popular right now. 

The interior, which is in a former warehouse surrounded by olive trees, offers a charming, cozy modern-Mediterranean vibe. 

Freshly caught local seafood is their specialty, and traditional dishes like zesty ceviche and spicy grilled salmon are frequently offered.

The Herringbone is most well-known for its oysters, which go splendidly with crisp white wines and copious amounts of champagne. 

When oysters are available, sit at the bar or enjoy a big lunch with friends.

They have a number of varieties you can try out, and you can even pack some if you want.

Address: 7837 Herschel Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States 

13. See the La Jolla Seals at the Children’s Pool

Things to do in La Jolla

John P. Anderson / La Jolla Seals at the Children’s Pool

Major La Jolla attractions include the sea wall surrounding the Children’s Pool and seals on the beach at sunrise.

Viewing the seals during the golden hour from the promenade can be one of the fun things to do in La Jolla.

Noteworthy, the majority of the La Jolla seals live here. 

In order to provide a secure swimming area for kids, the Children’s Pool sea wall was constructed in the 1930s.

Its harbor seals began settling here when the region gradually filled with sand. 

A rope barrier on the beach keeps the seals safe from people, but you can take some amazing pictures here if you stay respectfully away.

As you explore, you can watch the seals sleep, walk awkwardly on the sand, and do other funny similar behaviors.

In addition to watching the seals, the setting is captivating, and anyone looking for leisure will enjoy it. 

You may access the sea wall by walking there if the waves cooperate.

However, this option is unsuitable for toddlers as it can be slippery. 

Visits to Children’s Pool Beach are unquestionably among the most fun activities in La Jolla.

Stop to explore before moving away from La Jolla.

Address: 850 Coast Blvd La Jolla, CA 92037, United States 

14. La Jolla Tours

Things to do in La Jolla

La Jolla Tours / Flickr

San Diego Flyrides will take you over hills for panoramic vistas and along the coastline for ocean views, La Jolla Cove, and seal sightings on the Socal Riviera Electric Bike Tour.

You can try a kayak tour of the sea caverns in La Jolla with a guide. 

There are several firms in La Jolla that do kayaking tours and snorkeling tours, and they’re all excellent. 

You’ll work out, see some fish and sea lions, and then have a wonderful day outside in the Southern California heat. 

If you get wearied at any point, you may exit the kayak on some of these cruises and go snorkeling.

Besides, if you’ve never operated a Segway, this is your opportunity. 

After a brief lesson, it’s actually extremely enjoyable and simple to perform.

Rain or shine, these trips go for two hours and visit beaches, murals, seals, shops, and more.

A Walking Tour of La Jolla Village and other themed walking tours are available through the La Jolla Historical Society’s self-guided walks, which you may do at your own speed.

15. Map and Atlas Museum of La Jolla

Things to do in La Jolla

Map and Atlas Museum of La Jolla

Undiscovered gems include the Map and Atlas Museum of La Jolla, which are among the top things to do in the city. 

A selection of the more than 500 antique maps and atlases that collector and La Jolla resident Michael Stone has collected over the period of five centuries are on display at the museum. 

He is a recognized expert in cartography, and even youngsters will enjoy going there.

Apart from that, this museum’s exhibits of more than 200 maps from various historical periods are sure to appeal to history buffs, tourists, and artists alike.

The displays at this location examine how cartography has changed through time and feature some unique artifacts and novelty maps.

Several celestial maps, the collection of maps that depict California as an island, and much more will appeal to you. 

Similarly, the museum also provides scout patches and school tours. 

Explore the charts in this amazing private collection that is just right for explorers, warriors, and pilots.

Visits are completely free and worthwhile.

However, ensure to check the times before you go.

Currently, the museum is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Wednesday and Thursday. 

Since the entrance fee is always free, it’s one of the cheapest free things to do in La Jolla.

Address: 7825 Fay Ave Suite LL-A, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States 

16. Go Shopping

Go Shopping

West field / Go Shopping

All through your visit to La Jolla, you can’t afford to miss out on a shopping experience.

Prospect Street in La Jolla is referred to as the Rodeo Drive of the San Diego region because of its shops and art galleries.

However, its cross streets, Girard Avenue and Ivanhoe Avenue, also include some treasures worth exploring. 

Although there are many great locales to shop in La Jolla, some of the few are Sweet Paper, Hi Sweetheart, and Warwick’s. 

Go shopping and pick items.

Wheel your carts and seek your delights.

Hungry?

Best to make sure to stop at one of these fantastic restaurants for lunch or coffee in between shops.

Rest assured, you’ll uncover some of the best souvenirs and items to stock in your closet.

17. La Jolla Recreation Center

La Jolla Recreation Center

Joe Wolf / Flickr

After a tour, you’ll get a greater and greater appreciation for the La Jolla Recreation Center

This is a terrific location to let off some steam. 

Kids will enjoy playing wall ball and running over the blacktop to the play structures.

The fact is that grownups can and ought to enjoy it too. 

Play a game of tennis alone on the backboards or shoot baskets on the basketball courts. 

For something more relaxing, this is a grand place to go picnicking.

Picnic tables are spread all over the area, and you can relax and enjoy the scenery while at it.

There are classes and other programs available, of course. 

Although it’s not a destination you should make a special effort to visit while on vacation, if you’re dwelling at one of the La Jolla taverns in the Village and you need to let off some energy, this is the ideal spot to go.

Address: 615 Prospect Dr., La Jolla, CA 92037, United States 

18. Watch Movies at The Lot

The Lot

The Lot

Of course, La Jolla has a posh movie theater where you can order food and drinks before and during the film, and the soft seats recline.

You can attend various events on The LOT’s enormous patio, which was included in the construction of the building together with the restaurant and bar inside. 

When there is an occasional rainy day in La Jolla, this is an excellent alternative.

Catch a movie, relax, order food, and allow the rest of the evening to slide by.

Address: 7611 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States 

19. Explore the Birch Aquarium at Scripps

Birch Aquarium at Scripps

Karin Swanson / Birch Aquarium

The public exploration center for the renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego should be on your roster of things to do in La Jolla. 

Many families visit La Jolla for a day trip only to come here. 

To see the more than 60 habitats of fish and invertebrates from the Pacific Northwest to Mexico and beyond, spend a few hours at Scripps’ Birch Aquarium.

The Birch Aquarium is a component of the region’s larger marine conservation endeavor. 

It is a significant research facility for individuals interested in the seas of the world and is connected to the regional Institute of Oceanography.

Also, the museum has several entertaining hands-on displays as well as the climate, earth, and ocean discoveries of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography.

Over 5,000 fish inhabit the Aquarium alone, ranging from tiny sharks and pufferfish to tropical species with vivid colors and gem-like patterns. 

You may even get to see most of its baffling attractions.

One of their most beautiful attractions is the enormous variety of lovely seahorses that live in the aquariums.

Along with a breathtaking panoramic ocean view, the outdoor patio features a fascinating tidal pool exhibit.

Here, you’ll find docents providing interesting facts about animals that live there, such as sea stars, hermit crabs, and more. 

In certain cases, you can even touch them.

Learn about the La Jolla seas, interact with the touch tank, and feed the enormous sea turtles.

If you’re a lover of sea creatures, you should come.

Address: 9500 Gilman Drive. La Jolla, CA 92093, United States 

20. La Jolla Walking Trail

La Jolla Walking Trail

La Jolla Walking Trail

Take the La Jolla Walking Trail north for approximately a half-mile if you want to stroll to La Jolla Shores from the Village. 

On Coast Blvd., it has an entrance next to The Cave Store. 

For breathtaking views of the ocean and sea lions, the dirt route follows the shoreline. 

There are benches to rest on so that you may pause to enjoy the scenery along the simple route.

Strolling can be an ideal way to enjoy a hot evening in La Jolla.

21. Stuart Collection

Stuart Collection

Stuart Collection

On the UC San Diego campus, there is an incredible collection of public art called The Stuart Collection

The collection may be explored for free, and it provides a fun outdoor treasure hunt for adults or families with young children.

Its sculptures are extremely large, and some have been incorporated into existing structures and landscapes. 

To see the whole collection, download and print a map that will lead you on a roughly circular path around campus.

There isn’t much to do here; however, looking through the sculptures can be slightly entertaining.

Address: La Jolla, CA, United States

22. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

This state park is on the boundary of La Jolla and Del Mar and is home to the endangered Torrey Pine tree.

The Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a wonderful location for an easy trek. 

Since the park is on cliffs above lovely beaches, you might be able to spot dolphins or perhaps whales as they migrate annually. 

Besides, the vista is breathtaking, to say the least.

One of the few state parks with reserve status in La Jolla is this one. 

This means it’s crucial to remember that a variety of endangered species and unusual flora call Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve home.

However, though you can tour the place, the only thing that can be brought in is water.

Even dogs are not allowed in. 

Endeavor to bring your camera. 

Every day from 7:15 a.m. until dusk, the park is accessible. 

Here, visitors can participate in free small-group guided walks on weekends and holidays at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., even on Fridays at 10 a.m. 

Kids can also earn Junior Ranger badges in the summer only. 

Before you go, check the schedule since the walks are canceled if the paths are closed.

You’ll enjoy every moment here.

Address: 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, California, United States 

23. Torrey Pines Gliderport

Torrey Pines Gliderport

Christian Haugen / Flickr

The Torrey Pines Gliderport is a fairly undiscovered treasure that is worth visiting even if you don’t plan to hang or paraglide down the cliffs. 

To the north of La Jolla, on the tall cliffs, is where you’ll find this gliding base. 

If you’re new to paragliding, take lessons from local instructors here; otherwise, bring your own equipment.

However, if you’re looking for more thrills, there are tandem flights available for those who want to give it a try and instructors who can educate those who want to learn to fly alone. 

Alternately, enroll in a tandem flight, in which instructors fly passengers from 8 to 80 over the coast.

Even if you’re afraid of heights or don’t want to jump from a cliff, it’s still worthwhile to see this magnificent stretch of coastline.

With more than a century of flying history, it is one of the most important aviation sites in the nation.

Most visitors come for the expansive vistas, which are even more stunning by the colorful gliders in the sky. 

Actually, the atmosphere up here is rather serene; this is the type of location you don’t want to rush out of.

Although you are welcome to pack a picnic, the sandwiches at the Cliffhanger Cafe provide a decent lunch alternative. 

The quaint Cliffhanger Café is a nice location to warm up with a cup of coffee or cool down with an ice-cold beer.

Many people come here to watch others drift over the ocean.

As these activities are also close to UC San Diego, it’s also a wonderful spot to unwind after hiking Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.

Address: 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive La Jolla, CA 92037, United States 

Want to check out more cities in California? See our list of things to do in San Luis Obispo, Anaheim, and Irvine!

24. WindanSea Beach

WindanSea Beach

Lavender Dreamer / Flickr

Even though WindanSea Beach is more of a local hangout, it’s worth mentioning if you’re visiting this area of La Jolla or enjoy surfing big waves.

La Jolla’s Windansea Beach is well-named yet has a lazy name and is a hotspot for surfers.

This exposed coastline is notorious for its strong winds and choppy waters, making it ideal for thrill-seekers who want to ride the waves. 

Due to its reputation for producing enormous swells, Windansea has been featured in several surf films and documentaries throughout the years.

It is pretty picturesque, and there is a beautiful area of sand for walking to the beach if the tides permit. 

People who grew up in La Jolla often have fond memories of the famous WindanSea shack, which has been there since 1946.

As one of the most intimate beaches along the coast, the majority of visitors come to surf or observe storms. 

This beach is ideal for those who get goosebumps when they see the choppy water.

Taking pictures for important occasions and for Instagram near the shack is also one of the enjoyable things to do in this place in La Jolla.

Don’t leave La Jolla without a tour of this beach.

Address: 6800 Neptune Place, La Jolla, CA, 92037, United States 

25. Torrey Pines Golf Course

Torrey Pines Golf Course

Torrey Pines Golf Course

When looking for golf activities in La Jolla, this is the most prestigious and popular location to book a tee time. 

Visitors travel to La Jolla to play golf at the renowned Torrey Pines Municipal Golf Course.

This is the site of San Diego’s esteemed annual PGA tournament, the Farmers Insurance Open. 

The golf courses here are owned by the City of San Diego and provide stunning ocean views from their location.

Reservations can be made by non-residents by phone 4 to 90 days in advance. 

Literally, it’s a great place to try a game of golf with a group or alone.

Its tranquility will leave a special effect on you. 

Check out the prices and complete tee times.

Try a game of golf while you can; it’s one of the fun things to do in La Jolla.

Address: 11480 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, California, United States 

26. Go Tide Pooling

Tide Pooling

Doug Ross / Go Tide Pooling

In the winter, when low tides happen throughout the day, many locals and visitors head to the greatest beaches to see the tidal pools. 

There are several little ponds all across this broad, flat area of rock that is home to a wide variety of marine life. 

On the weekends, plenty of families come here to go critter hunting at low tide.

A complete underwater paradise full of limpets, mussels, and sea anemones, as well as tiny fish and crabs. 

Bring a bucket and a net to have a closer look at them.

You’ll observe a wide range of marine life, including octopuses and hermit crabs.

Online tide calendars for the area can be consulted as a general guideline. 

However, you should return to the beach as soon as you see a negative tide. 

For more fun, you can try Dike Rock, which is just north of Scripps Pier and south of the Children’s Pool. 

The best option is to sign up for a Birch Aquarium Tidepooling Adventure, where you’ll find naturalists skilled at identifying animals and describing their lives.

Before you arrive, check the tide timings to ensure the pools are accessible, and then go hunting to your heart’s pleasure.

Reel in as much as you want, or try marine photography.

27. Pay respects at Mount Soledad Veterans Memorial

Mount Soledad Veterans Memorial

Wayne S. Grazio / Flickr

The Mount Soledad Veterans Memorial offers one of San Diego’s finest panoramas. 

It is a popular stop for the Old Town Trolley, several bike tours, and numerous other tourists and locals since it is just on the summit of Mount Soledad.

Here, you’ll be able to view beyond Mission Bay and down to Mexico and the east over the mountains.

You can also view north to La Jolla Shores and even Del Mar beaches, see the lovely Mormon Temple, and beyond unless there is a lot of cloud cover. 

A little patch of grass offers a place to relax and is ideal for casual picnics.

Basically, it is a memorial for veterans, nevertheless. 

Over 3300 black granite plaques memorialize living and departed soldiers of wars from the American Revolution to the present.

President Reagan, Jimmy Stewart, General Patton, and several others are honorees here. 

Docents are typically there to answer queries and point out the locations of the more well-known awardees.

Pay your honors to those who lost their lives if you have the time.

Address: 6905 La Jolla Scenic Dr S, La Jolla, California, United States 

28. Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center

Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center

Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center

If you are obsessed with performing arts, you should consider visiting the Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center.

The La Jolla Music Society now has a permanent residence at the brand-new, cutting-edge Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center. 

Its superb acoustics in the 500-seat performance space compliment the wide range of musical genres. 

In addition to free seminars and open rehearsals in the summer, there are also brand-new family concerts on the calendar.

You can drop by to catch a performance or show on display.

Check to see if they have anything on display.

Address: 7600 Fay Avenue, San Diego, CA 92037, United States 

29. The Cat Lounge

Cat Lounge

Hauspanther / Cat Lounge

Sounds crappy to recommend a cat adoption site as a tour option.

However, you’re in for a shock at the Cat Lounge.

This nonprofit’s concept is straightforward. 

Each cat at The Cat Lounge has been rescued from a high-kill shelter nearby and is now available for adoption. 

You may come to play with kitties, read, feed your Instagram, and unwind by paying the entry fee, which is tax deductible. 

Enjoy the fact that all proceeds are used to rescue and care for cats.

What a wonderful method to get to know your potential family member, especially if you’re seeking to adopt a cat.

If you are a cat fanatic, don’t miss out on this.

Address: 1006 Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States 

30. La Jolla Open Aire Market

La Jolla Open Aire Market

La Jolla Open Aire Market

The La Jolla Open Aire Market, at La Jolla Elementary School on Girard Avenue and Genter Street, is known as a Farmers Market. 

If the upscale neighborhood eateries are too pricey for you, this enormous open-air farmers’ market is a fantastic substitute.

Here, you may get locally cultivated produce that is renowned for its high quality.

Produce, flowers,  freshly baked foods, handicrafts, and even seafood to prepare at home are all available there. 

There are also epicurean souvenirs available if you’re in La Jolla. 

Come here for the wide selection of hot food vendors providing everything from vegan cuisine to pizza.

After you’re done, buy some locally made crafts or enjoy the fantastic music played here on the weekends by the several bands who come to perform.

However, there are also prepared items available in the market that you can enjoy on picnic tables on the lawn, from avocado toast to superb burritos. 

Yes, you can frequently eat on the go.

Address: 7335 Girard Avenue LA Jolla, CA 92037, United States 

31. Salk Institute

Louis Khan

The Salk Institute is a great place to go if you’re into architecture. 

As a venue for scientific research, the designated historic property was created in part by Jonas Salk to promote innovation.

Additionally, the complex structures are renowned for their angular designs, unhindered labs, and breathtaking ocean vistas. 

Either a self-guided tour or a tour conducted by a docent requires reservations.

Don’t delay any more; there are a ton of architectural pieces on display.

Address: 10010 N Torrey Pines Rd La Jolla, CA 92037, United States 

Final Remarks

Indeed, touring La Jolla sets aflame a burning desire to do more touring.

However, with these few, you’ll have a good look at the city.

Bring a camera to capture these priceless moments; they don’t come twice.

Safe Travels.