Itinerary for a Perfect Day at La Jolla Cove
Planning the ultimate getaway? Look no further than La Jolla Cove! La Jolla, California, is the spot for mouthwatering brunches, stunning views, the Birch Aquarium, and of course, its killer beaches. One of the most iconic? La Jolla Cove! This itinerary for La Jolla Cove is your go-to guide for all the must-see spots and hidden gems, making sure you get the most out of your trip. Whether you’re new to La Jolla or a seasoned traveler, our La Jolla Cove itinerary has you covered. Let’s dive into the ultimate La Jolla Cove adventure!
La Jolla Cove is not only captivating, it’s also safe for children, great for snorkeling, and one of the few places you can truly see the local sea lions in action. Instead of coming for just an hour or two, why not make a day out of it? We’ve put together an itinerary for La Jolla Cove that’s fun and carefree.
Enjoy a delicious breakfast — with a view.
To fuel up for an exciting day, we recommend grabbing a great meal and cup of coffee at Harry’s Coffee Shop. This is a beloved local gem that’s been a family-owned business for more than fifty years, since its founding in 1960. Soak in the friendly, local atmosphere as you tuck into waffles (our favorite), eggs, or fluffy French Toast. You can even grab a cheeseburger if that’s what you crave at 7 am; they’re served all day!
Head to La Jolla Cove to hang with the sea lions.
Seals and sea lions are the ocean’s coolest creatures—super smart, curious, and always up for fun. At La Jolla Cove, you get the perfect view of them chilling on the cliffs from the sidewalk above. Want to get closer? Just take the stairs on the left down to the sandy beach.
Remember, these awesome animals are protected, so give them space and don’t disturb their vibe.
The Children’s Pool is a top spot to check them out. It was built as a safe swimming area for kids, but now it’s a hangout for seals and sea lions. They love to sunbathe and swim in the clear waters, and it’s seriously mesmerizing to watch.
Spending time with these amazing sea creatures at La Jolla Cove is a chill and relaxing experience for everyone. It’s a rare chance to see them up close and fall in love with the ocean all over again.
Oh, and while you’re there, don’t forget to snap some pics at the nearby sea caves—they’re Insta gold!
Take a La Jolla kayak tour.
After enjoying a glass of wine or a martini, dive into the downtown Village art scene as the sun sets. La Jolla offers an art lover’s dream! Explore the art galleries along Girard Avenue and Prospect Street, or discover hidden murals throughout La Jolla. Find about two dozen murals tucked away in small corners and on building sides. On certain days, The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library hosts free guided tours—don’t miss it!
For more outdoor art, visit The Stuart Collection at MCSASD La Jolla. Although the museum has temporarily closed for new exhibit installations, the gardens remain open and free to the public, making it a great spot for watching the sunset!
Whether you’re a nature lover and adventure seeker, or you just want to have the best possible day at the Cove, book your La Jolla kayak tour today!
Take in the view from Ellen Browning Scripps Park.
Head up the steps and onto the green at Ellen Browning Scripps Park, one of La Jolla’s best parks. It’s perfect for playing frisbee, flying a kite, or shaking off the sand. Throw down a blanket and soak in the stunning views, including seals and sea lions below.
From here, it’s an easy stroll to your next stop in the downtown Village!
Take a break for lunch.
Downtown La Jolla Village offers some great restaurant options. Take in your midday meal at a casual spot like El Pescador Fish Market or The Cottage (beloved by locals for their fabulous brunch and lunch options), or head to an upscale venue with a patio for people-watching like NINE-TEN Restaurant inside the Grande Colonial Hotel.
Take a stroll along the Historic Coast Walk.
In our opinion, no visit to La Jolla is complete without a stroll along the beautiful Historic Coast Walk Trail! The trail begins at The Cave Store (where you can venture down to Sunny Jim Cave before you walk) and takes you along the bluffs over to La Jolla Shores.
While you’re at The Shores, you can rent equipment from a local spot and go kayaking, standup paddle boarding, or snorkeling.
Enjoy happy hour by the sea.
Coming back after your exhilarating stroll, a refreshing drink may sound like the very best thing! There are some amazing happy hours to choose from in La Jolla; whether you’re in the mood for drinks with a view (we love Catania) or you want something a little cozier and more quiet.
Locals’ tip: For something a bit more tucked-away, try the We Olive & Wine Bar! They have a terrific patio in the back with an ocean view; it’s rarely crowded and makes for a relaxing spot to enjoy a glass of wine while you watch the sunset.
Stroll the art galleries and eclectic murals around La Jolla.
After sipping a glass of wine or a martini, dive into the downtown Village art scene as the sun sets. La Jolla is an art lover’s dream! Explore the art galleries along Girard Avenue and Prospect Street, or discover hidden murals scattered throughout La Jolla. There are about two dozen murals tucked away in small corners and on building sides. On certain days, The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library offers free guided tours—don’t miss it!
For more outdoor art, visit The Stuart Collection at MCSASD La Jolla. Although the museum is temporarily closed for new exhibit installations, the gardens are open and free to the public, making it a great spot for watching the sunset!
Grab some dinner.
The beauty of dining here is the variety! To dine with an ocean view, check out Duke’s or George’s at the Cove. Both of them are waterfront and have gorgeous views of the coast! Mix things up with a dinner from Spice & Rice Thai Kitchen, known for its delicious Thai entrees, or enjoy a fine Italian meal at Piazza 1909.
Check out our complete Restaurant Guide for more ideas!
End the day with some comedy.
The Comedy Store has been hosting top comedians since 1977, making it the perfect spot to unwind and get entertained after a long day. Grab your tickets in advance and enjoy a night of laughs. Over the years, comedy legends like Jim Carrey, Bill Hicks, and Whitney Cummings have performed here. It’s the ideal way to end a fantastic day!
Spend the night in a luxurious hotel.
If you’re staying the night, top off the perfect day in La Jolla by staying at one of several five-star hotels (we love La Valencia and the Grande Colonial), or check out one of the cozier and more quaint B&Bs (The Bed & Breakfast Inn at La Jolla, Redwood Hollow Cottages, and Scripps Inn are our favorites).
| Stay the Night in La Jolla | ||
| La Jolla Cove Suites | $$$ | Check Price |
| La Valencia | $$$$ | Check Price |
| Pantai Inn | $$ | Check Price |
| Cormorant Boutique Hotel | $$$ | Check Price |
| Grande Colonial | $$ | Check Price |
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