The Mushroom House
- Admission
- Free
- Hours
- Visible 24/7 from the public beach
- Duration
- 30-45 minutes
- Parking
- Free public parking is available at the Torrey Pines Gliderport lot, or you can park at La Jolla Shores and walk north.
- Access
- Not wheelchair accessible. Reaching the site requires navigating steep, rugged dirt trails or walking over a mile on soft sand.
Perched dramatically on the sands of Black's Beach, this retro-futuristic guest house resembles a concrete mushroom from a sci-fi film. Built in 1968, it was designed to withstand the pounding surf and shifting tides. It remains one of Southern California's most bizarre and iconic architectural landmarks.
Read more
Designed by architect Dale Naegle in 1968, the Mushroom House (officially the Bell Pavilion) was built as a guest house for General Mills heir Sam Bell. The striking structure features a futuristic elevator tramway that connects it to the main residence sitting atop the high cliffs of La Jolla Farms.
The pavilion's unique shape was chosen for its aerodynamic ability to withstand rockfalls and high ocean tides. Though it is a private residence and completely closed to the public, beachgoers can walk right up to its base and marvel at its mid-century space-age design.
Visiting this architectural marvel requires a bit of effort, as it is only accessible by hiking down the rugged cliffs or walking along the shoreline. It stands as a testament to the experimental, boundary-pushing coastal architecture of the late 1960s.
Ratings
attraction◆ Visitor Tips
- ◆ Respect private property by viewing the house only from the public beach area.
- ◆ Check tide charts before you go, as high tides can cut off the beach access routes.
- ◆ Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to hike down the cliffs rather than walking the shoreline.
- ◆ Be aware that Black's Beach is a well-known clothing-optional beach.
Heads Up
- ◆ The cliffs surrounding the area are unstable and prone to landslides; do not stand directly beneath them.
- ◆ Do not attempt to climb the tramway, staircase, or the structure itself.
- ◆ The trails leading down to the beach are extremely steep and can be slippery.
Common questions
Can you go inside the La Jolla Mushroom House?
No, the Mushroom House is a private residence and is not open to the public for tours or entry. You can only view and photograph the exterior from the public beach below.
How do you get to the Mushroom House?
The most common way to reach it is by walking north along the beach from Scripps Pier at La Jolla Shores. You must time your walk with a low tide, as high tides can submerge the beach and block access entirely.
Can visitors use the tram at the Mushroom House?
No, the tramway and funicular system connecting the clifftop residence to the beachside pavilion are private property. The tram is locked and off-limits to the public.