La Jolla Cove
- Admission
- Free
- Hours
- Open 24 hours daily; lifeguards are typically on duty from 9:00 AM to sunset.
- Duration
- 1-2 hours
- Parking
- Limited free street parking is available along Coast Boulevard with strict time limits. Several paid parking garages are located a short walk away in downtown La Jolla.
- Access
- The paved sidewalk along the cliffs is wheelchair accessible, but the steep concrete steps leading down to the sandy beach are not.
A picturesque pocket beach tucked between dramatic sandstone cliffs, La Jolla Cove is famed for its extraordinarily clear waters and resident wild sea lions. It is a dream destination for snorkelers, kayakers, and sunset watchers.
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La Jolla Cove is one of Southern California's most beautiful natural treasures, tucked within the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve. Because fishing and scavenging are strictly prohibited in this protected marine sanctuary, the waters are teeming with rich marine life, including bright orange Garibaldi fish, harmless leopard sharks, and playful harbor seals.
Visitors flock here to stroll the scenic bluff-top paths, explore the tide pools, and watch the noisy California sea lions sun themselves on the rocks. While swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving are incredibly popular, simply sitting on the grassy bluffs of Ellen Browning Scripps Park to watch the sunset is a quintessential San Diego experience.
Ratings
attraction◆ Visitor Tips
- ◆ Arrive before 9:00 AM to secure a parking spot and enjoy calmer water visibility.
- ◆ Bring a mask and snorkel to see the Garibaldi and sea life just feet from the shore.
- ◆ Keep a safe, respectful distance from the sea lions; they are wild animals and can bite.
- ◆ Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes if you plan to explore the slippery, rocky tide pools.
Heads Up
- ◆ The rocky areas can be very slippery and waves can crash unexpectedly.
- ◆ The strong natural odor of sea lion guano can be overwhelming on hot, windless days.
- ◆ Ocean currents can be strong, so check with the on-duty lifeguards before entering the water.
Common questions
Can you swim with the sea lions at La Jolla Cove?
You can swim in the same water as the sea lions, but you are legally required to maintain a safe distance of at least 50 feet. Harassing, touching, or feeding the sea lions is a violation of federal law under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
Is parking free at La Jolla Cove?
Free street parking is available along Coast Boulevard, but it is limited to two hours and spots fill up very early in the day. Paid parking garages and lots are available a few blocks away in the downtown La Jolla area.
Can you collect shells or rocks at La Jolla Cove?
No, collecting shells, rocks, or marine life is strictly prohibited. The cove is part of the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve, meaning all natural resources are fully protected by law.
Are dogs allowed on the beach at La Jolla Cove?
Dogs are never allowed on the beach at La Jolla Cove. Leashed dogs are allowed on the boardwalk and in the adjacent Ellen Browning Scripps Park, but only during specific morning and evening hours depending on the season.