La Jolla is a picturesque seaside town in California with various activities year-round. In this La Jolla bucket list, you will explore must-see attractions. Whether you are seeking outdoor adventures, natural beauty, or simply the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal, La Jolla has it all.
La Jolla Bucket List
1. Surfing
You will see surfers at all times of the day in the ocean in La Jolla. Watching the surfers is an activity in itself, but why not give it a try? Whether you are a beginner, somewhat experienced, or an expert, this is a great activity in La Jolla. I took a surfing lesson with San Diego Surf School at Pacific Beach, and highly recommend them. They have private, semi-private, and group (3 or 4 people) sessions as well as a surf camp, spanning multiple days. Although I needed a lot more practice, I was able to stand up, catch some waves, and experience the adrenaline rush of surfing. Pacific Beach is a popular place for surfers and I certainly recommend, depending on your skill level, either taking lessons, renting a board, or bringing your own board as it will be a highlight of your trip!
2. Pacific Beach Boardwalk
The Pacific Beach boardwalk is lined with a large beach and ocean on one side, with shops, restaurants, and rental properties on the other side. It is busy with beachgoers, walkers, runners, and bikers. It is a great way to get outside and explore the scenery of La Jolla. On the way, stop for a cup of coffee at Drift Coffee.
3. Sea Cave Kayaking
If you are looking to get on the water and enjoy sea life, go on a Sea Cave Kayaking Tour with La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks. This tour is great for beginner or experienced kayakers who want to see La Jolla from a different angle. You will be able to see Leopard Sharks, Garibaldi fish (state saltwater fish that looks like a jumbo goldfish), sea lions, and seals in the water and bathing on rocks, kelp and enter a sea cave. The guides are knowledgeable and will tell you fun facts and stories about the area.
4. Torrey Pines State Reserve
You will find easy hikes and stunning views on coastline cliffs overlooking the glistening ocean in Torrey Pines State Reserve – explore the map here. The most popular trail is the Guy Fleming Trail. This is an easy, 0.8-mile loop with multiple viewpoints. Listen to the ocean waves and spot the Torrey Pine, the rare pine species only located in coastal San Diego County and Santa Rosa Island.
5. Ho Chi Minh Trail
The Ho Chi Minh Trail is an incredible half-mile hike down to a beach. With slot canyons and steep and narrow pathways, this is a treacherous hike – make sure you are up for the challenge before committing! Once you get down to the beach, if you head to the right this is Black’s Beach (it might be good to know that this is San Diego’s only clothing-optional beach!). To the left, is Torrey Pines City Beach. Walk either way along the beach and watch the surfers carve the waves. Both ways have steep but paved roads for additional access points to the beach so if the Ho Chi Minh Trail was enough to go down, then take one of these exit points back to the top of the cliff.
6. Windansea Beach
Windansea Beach is a top surfing spot in La Jolla. However, it also provides a great area to sunbathe and walk along. There are plenty of benches to stop and soak up the beauty along the way. The surfers carve the waves and provide ample entertainment.
7. La Jolla Tide Pools
The La Jolla Tide Pools provides a great place to explore. This rocky beach features many small pools of water with rich sea life. You can use the tide chart to determine the low tides, which is the best time to explore the tide pools. Make sure to look out for anemones, hermit crabs, and mussels.
8. Seal Rock
Stop at Seal Rock to watch the seals and sea lions lounge on rocks and swim in the sea. It is hard to take your eyes off these unique animals!
9. Sunsets
Watching the sunset is a must in La Jolla! The sun melts away in the glistening ocean and it is breathtaking. Any place you can see the sun sink into the ocean is worth watching the sunset at, but a few include Windansea Beach, Sunset Cliffs, and Torrey Pines Gliderport.
10. George’s at the Cove
George’s at the Cove is a highly-rated, oceanfront restaurant. Open for lunch and dinner, you can eat and drink with breathtaking ocean views. (Pro-tip: Go before sundown to enjoy the view!) Although the view is spectacular, the food is right in line with being just as wonderful. The restaurant serves American cuisine with seafood, pasta, vegetarian bowls, and meat options, along with reputable wine and cocktails.
11. The Taco Stand
If you are craving tacos, burritos, and churros, then The Taco Stand is the place to go. This fast-food style restaurant is quite popular so be prepared at busy times to wait in a long line… but it is worth it!
12. Puesto
La Jolla Village is filled with shops and restaurants and is a fantastic spot for dinner. Head to Puesto for incredible tacos and patio seating.
- Suggested Menu:
- Drink: Watermelon Margarita
- Starters: Chips and Guacamole, Ceviche, Taquitos
- Tacos: Filet Mignon Taco, Shrimp Taco, Taco of the Month
13. Catania
Another great dinner option in La Jolla Village is Catania, located on the top floor of the Plaza Center. This restaurant has incredible coastal Italian food, known for wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas. The menu changes constantly, but I still think about the Burrata Focaccia!
14. The Comedy Store
For an evening of laughs, go to The Comedy Store. You will find a small venue that feels quaint and intimate, allowing the ability to soak into the laughter. On weekends you will find a professional show with a set comedic and during the week you will find multiple local comedians. Get ready to laugh!
15. The Baked Bear
Of course, I have to throw in some ice cream. The Baked Bear is known for custom ice cream sandwiches and let me tell you, they exceed expectations! Get a classic cookie of chocolate chip with vanilla ice cream, or get out of your comfort zone and choose a monster cookie with blackberry crumble (I have personally tried both options and thoroughly enjoyed them!).
From exploring restaurants to enjoying the ocean to hiking, use this La Jolla bucket list to fill your days up on your trip with various activities!
Check out this Build Your Day In La Jolla guide!
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