La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove as well as a small group of people
La Jolla Cove showing landscape views and rocky coastline
La Jolla Cove showing landscape views, rocky coastline and a beach
La Jolla Cove showing a coastal town, rugged coastline and landscape views
La Jolla Cove


Enjoy world-class shopping, restaurants and beaches in the sparkling “Jewel City” along the ocean.

This hillside community just north of San Diego does indeed seem to sparkle, with exclusive homes along the ocean cliffs, upscale shops and beautiful people. Some of California’s most prized beaches are here. Watch the spectacular surfing and admire the dramatic waves on display at Windansea Beach.

The small and sandy La Jolla Cove, conveniently located downtown, is a picturesque cove sandwiched between two sandstone cliffs. It’s a great place for families to splash in the water and explore the pools at low tide, as is the nearby Children’s Pool Beach. Scripps Park offers a dramatic view from the walkway along the bluffs above the ocean, where you can watch the sea lions sunbathe and play.

The shopping in La Jolla is great for browsing, even if you can’t afford the prices. Stroll along Prospect Street, Girard Avenue and La Jolla Boulevard, where you’ll find little boutiques, art galleries and cafés to sit and sip a latte or enjoy gelato. If you’re looking for world-class food with a view to match, make a reservation well in advance at one of the popular restaurants with a terrace overlooking the ocean.

Active travellers will love the range of sports to try at La Jolla. As well as surfing, there’s scuba diving and snorkeling, kayaking and fishing. If you fancy trying your golf swing on a PGA course, then head to the exquisite fairways of Torrey Pines, just a 10-minute drive from La Jolla. Tiger Woods and many other professionals have graced these greens.

La Jolla is 15 miles (24 kilometres) north of downtown San Diego. Rent a car to make the drive, but leave it parked once you get to La Jolla as the sights are best explored on foot. Public transportation options include San Diego’s Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) bus service. Route 30 departs from downtown and terminates at La Jolla Village Square.

Plan a trip to see La Jolla Cove

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The Sofia Hotel
La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club
Hotel La Jolla, Curio Collection by Hilton

Tours & day trips

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History & culture

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Private & custom tours

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Water activities

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Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

La Jolla Cove Suites

La Jolla Cove Suites

3 out of 5
1155 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA
La Jolla Cove Suites
Inn By The Sea La Jolla

Inn By The Sea La Jolla

3.5 out of 5
7830 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA
Inn By The Sea La Jolla
La Valencia Hotel

La Valencia Hotel

4 out of 5
1132 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA
La Valencia Hotel
Grande Colonial Hotel

Grande Colonial Hotel

4 out of 5
910 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA
Grande Colonial Hotel
Cormorant Boutique Hotel

Cormorant Boutique Hotel

4 out of 5
1110 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA
Cormorant Boutique Hotel
Empress Hotel of La Jolla

Empress Hotel of La Jolla

3 out of 5
7766 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA
Empress Hotel of La Jolla
Panoramic Ocean Vistas With Hot Tub and Firepit

Panoramic Ocean Vistas With Hot Tub and Firepit

San Diego, CA
Panoramic Ocean Vistas With Hot Tub and Firepit
Pantai Inn

Pantai Inn

3.5 out of 5
1003 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA
Pantai Inn
La Jolla Shores Hotel

La Jolla Shores Hotel

3 out of 5
8110 Camino Del Oro, La Jolla, CA
La Jolla Shores Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove offers a variety of activities for visitors, including snorkelling, wildlife observation, and birdwatching. Adventurous souls can explore the stunning coastal paths that provide great walks with breathtaking views. Whether you’re seeking underwater exploration or peaceful strolls along the shore, La Jolla Cove is a delightful destination for nature enthusiasts and those looking to unwind in a picturesque setting.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience, visit The Cave Store, a mere 124m from La Jolla Cove. If you're up for a drive, Westfield UTC, 2.5km away, offers a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. Don't miss the Ocean Beach Farmers Market, located 4.3km away, for local produce and crafts.

Recreation

Experience the stunning Torrey Pines Golf Course, a mere 2.5km from La Jolla Cove, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst breathtaking views. Alternatively, visit Meadows Del Mar Golf Club, located 5.0km away, for more outdoor sporting activities in a picturesque setting.

Adventure

At Barnes Tennis Center, located 4.3km from La Jolla Cove, you can enjoy thrilling tennis matches amid vibrant surroundings. Eli Howard Surf School, 7.5km away, offers exhilarating surfing lessons for all skill levels, while the Bayshore Bikeway, also 7.5km distant, invites you to explore scenic cycling routes.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Jolla Playhouse, a cultural gem just 1.2km away, offering captivating performances. For a fun-filled evening, visit Boomers San Diego, 3.7km away, with its exciting arcade adventures. Don’t miss Regal Edwards Mira Mesa, 6.2km away, for the latest films in a romantic setting.

Find the best attractions near La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove offers a delightful blend of outdoor experiences, perfect for families and beach lovers alike. Explore the stunning La Jolla Caves, relax at Shoal La Jolla Beach, and discover the fascinating La Jolla Tide Pools. Don't miss the picturesque La Jolla Cove and the expansive La Jolla Beach, each providing unique opportunities for adventure and relaxation in this charming coastal area.

  • Mission Bay: Located 3.7km from La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay offers stunning beaches and picturesque scenery. It's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with ample opportunities for water sports, picnicking, and enjoying the vibrant coastal atmosphere.
  • Mission Beach: Also 3.7km away, Mission Beach is a lively stretch of sand where you can soak up the sun and enjoy beach vibes. It’s ideal for a relaxed day by the ocean, with plenty of cafes and shops lining the boardwalk.
  • University of San Diego: Situated 4.3km from La Jolla Cove, this modern university boasts beautiful architecture and a vibrant campus life. The city vibes here create a dynamic environment, making it an interesting spot to explore.

Best time to go to La Jolla Cove

The best time to visit La Jolla Cove is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
March58.1°F (14.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April60.8°F (16.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
May62.8°F (17.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June67.1°F (19.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
July71.6°F (22.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August73.4°F (23.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September72.9°F (22.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October68.4°F (20.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
November62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for La Jolla Cove

To save money on your trip to La Jolla Cove, consider visiting between November and January when accommodation prices are lower, avoiding the high summer season. Book your stay for a Tuesday, the most affordable day, and use Expedia’s search tool to compare prices and find the best deals. Look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities to maximise savings. Additionally, explore free activities like enjoying the stunning coastline and wildlife, and utilise public transport options to get around cost-effectively.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around La Jolla Cove are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around La Jolla Cove is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around La Jolla Cove is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel booking at La Jolla Cove with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.