La Jolla Beaches

La Jolla, the beachside community just north of the downtown area, has become iconic to the surfing culture of Southern California. The chaparral bluffs that form the coastline are a gorgeous backdrop to the beach, and the reefs create surfable waves from Windansea to La Jolla Shores. On a sunny day, it’s possible to walk the length of the coastline, starting from the landmark Surfing Hut on Windansea all the way to the Cove. Along the way, you’ll pass several parks and tide pools, plus an arts district full of galleries and museums. Near the end of the walk, you’ll reach the Children’s Pool, a beach with a large sea wall that blocks the surf and is home of over 200 seals. While you should never get too close to these seals, it’s quite a sight to see.

The Cove marks the end of this walk, and deserves special attention for its scenery and swimmable surf. This is where the La Jolla Underwater Park can be found, a 6,000-acre protected marine reserve that is home to a variety of species, from bat rays and garibaldis to the occasional great white shark. As a marine reserve, the section is free of boating and other motorized vehicles; however, kayaking is encouraged, and the diving is some of the best in California.