Snorkeling in La Jolla: 7 Things You Should Know
There’s a reason (okay, maybe several) snorkeling in La Jolla is one of the most sought-after experiences for enthusiasts and aquatic adventurers alike. Just consider La Jolla Ecological Reserve and Underwater Park – it’s one of the top ten places in the world for snorkeling.
Together, the Park and Reserve span 6,000 acres of ocean bottom and tidelands, from Scripps Park across La Jolla Shores all the way to Torrey Pines. From the seven sea caves to the variety of brightly-colored sea creatures, the Underwater Park and nearby La Jolla Cove have become destinations for snorkelers and scuba divers from around the world.
Table of Contents
- 1. Experience Diverse Marine Life
- 2. Discover Top Snorkeling Spots with a Guide
- 3. Explore Magical Sea Caves
- 4. Swim With Leopard Sharks
- 5. Dive into Underwater Canyons
- 6. Snorkel in the Protected La Jolla Ecological Reserve
- 7. Discover the Underwater Graveyard
- Snorkeling Locations in La Jolla
- Bonus Tip! Go Deeper With Scuba Diving
- Snorkeling La Jolla Tour Information
- Top La Jolla Water Sports to Try
- FAQs About Snorkeling on the “Best Coast”
- Additional Tips
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Here are just a few reasons why snorkeling La Jolla Cove and the Underwater Park/Ecological Reserve should be at the top of your bucket list!
1. Experience Diverse Marine Life
La Jolla is home to an incredible variety of sea creatures and provides a rare opportunity to see marine life up close and personal. The warmer-than-usual water and protected cove attracts fish and mammals from all along the coast.
Snorkelers and divers have reported seeing Garibaldi, octopus, urchins, dolphins, sea turtles, leopard sharks, sea stars, shovel nose guitar fish, schools of fish big and small; and of course, playful seals and sea lions.
2. Discover Top Snorkeling Spots with a Guide
Whether you’re an expert or a newbie, snorkeling is hands-down, the best way to see, photograph, and experience the unknown depths of La Jolla. But what if you’re new to the area and not sure where the best nooks and crannies are? Sure, we’re giving you the low-down and tips in this guide to snorkeling in La Jolla, but there’s nothing better than partnering up with a professional who knows the area by rote.
That’s why we’re recommending Bike and Kayak Tours. For 15 years, this local tour guide company has been equipping locals and tourists with the right snorkeling gear and guiding them through the secret spots that most folks don’t know about.
To wit, one of the Bike and Kayak offerings is a guided snorkel tour of leopard sharks, which is absolutely exhilarating. They also have a kayak-snorkel tour package where your guide will take you to the most premium spots via kayak and then dive in the crystal waters and snorkel your way through mind-blowing underwater views.
It’s stupid-easy to rent equipment or book a tour with Bike and Kayak and they offer several different tour packages. Plus, having the expertise of a certified pro on your side is the ideal way to guarantee a sea-sensational aquatic sojourn.
3. Explore Magical Sea Caves
Where else in San Diego can you actually swim through an entire sea cave?
La Jolla Cove is home to seven caves, the biggest of which is Clam Cave (just offshore from Goldfish Point Cafe); when the tide allows, visitors can delight in snorkeling or kayaking through it to the other side. The other six are viewable from the water, and there is usually a plethora of marine life clustered near the caves at any time; which makes for some great snorkeling!
4. Swim With Leopard Sharks
Between the months of June and December, snorkelers can experience swimming among the largest annual gathering of leopard sharks along the coast of California.
Each year, thousands of pregnant female sharks migrate to the beaches near La Jolla Cove, where the warmer, calm water helps their young develop faster. This is truly a one-of-a-kind experience that you can’t find anywhere else in California — it’s an absolute must-do if you enjoy snorkeling!
5. Dive into Underwater Canyons
Within the Ecological Reserve, the bottom takes a sudden and drastic 500-foot- plunge into the La Jolla Underwater Canyon (which reaches depths of up to 600 feet!). It’s exactly these unique features that make snorkeling in La Jolla such an incredible experience!
Fun fact: a giant concrete map of the underwater park was completed in 2008 at La Jolla Shores. You can find this unique map near the boardwalk between the restrooms and the children’s play area at the south end of Kellogg Park.
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6. Snorkel in the Protected La Jolla Ecological Reserve
The La Jolla Underwater Park was created by the City of San Diego in 1970, and both the Ecological Reserve and the Marine Life Refuge lie within it.
The Reserve is federally protected, and fishing or collecting of any kind is outlawed. With this added protection, marine life has flourished over the years — which makes for some fantastic snorkeling!
7. Discover the Underwater Graveyard
Two underwater canyons, two artificial reefs, and a kelp forest all span 6,000 acres underwater, making the Park and Reserve visually beautiful and geographically fascinating.
There is one feature of the underwater canyon, however, that is especially unique: a secret underwater graveyard! Just beyond the coastline, about 100 yards out from the La Jolla Cove Bridge Club and 35 feet underwater, lies an eerie underwater memorial that is unofficially known as “Tombstones.”
There are no bodies as the name implies, only several markers that are dedicated to fallen spear fishermen and members of the “Bottom Scratchers,” the first documented diving and spearfishing club in North America.
Over time, markers have been placed for other fallen free divers and locals. The tradition began all the way back in the 1940s and has continued up to present day.
Snorkeling Locations in La Jolla
La Jolla offers some of the best snorkeling spots in San Diego, each providing a unique underwater experience. La Jolla Cove is one of the most popular snorkeling sites, known for its clear waters and abundant marine life. Snorkelers can expect to see colorful Garibaldi fish, sea lions, and various types of rays.
La Jolla Shores is ideal for those who prefer a more tranquil snorkeling experience. The sandy bottom and gentle waves make it perfect for families and novices. Here, snorkelers often encounter schools of leopard sharks (harmless to humans) during the summer months, as well as stingrays and playful sea lions.
Another excellent spot is the Marine Room, located near La Jolla Shores. This area is known for its dramatic underwater topography, including rocky reefs and kelp forests. Snorkelers can explore the diverse marine habitat and might even spot some of the region’s larger sea creatures, such as dolphins and seals.
Bonus Tip! Go Deeper With Scuba Diving
If you really want an extraordinary underwater adventure, why not give scuba diving in La Jolla Cove a shot? We recommend Odyssea Diving in San Diego for your ultimate aquatic quest. They have experienced instructors and offer different customizable packages so you can tailor your scuba sojourn just the way you want. While snorkeling is awesome, plunging in the Cove on a guided scuba tour with Odyssea is a mind-boggling affair you won’t forget!
Snorkeling La Jolla Tour Information
The next time you’re in La Jolla, we definitely recommend snorkeling around La Jolla Cove and the La Jolla Underwater Park/Ecological Reserve! You can venture out with a partner on your own if you feel comfortable doing so. Make sure to rent a mask and snorkel for a full day so you have plenty of time to explore. You can take a guided tour with experienced professionals if you prefer. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, try a combination kayak and snorkeling tour — it’s the best of both worlds!
Top La Jolla Water Sports to Try
When it comes to La Jolla water sports, the sky (or water) is the limit, with endless opportunities for waves of frolic and fun. For instance, kayaking is a hugely popular activity in La Jolla, especially around the La Jolla Sea Caves. Guided kayak tours take you through the Ecological Reserve, where you can paddle alongside sea lions, dolphins, and even leopard sharks in the summer. Scuba divers can also opt for snorkel rental La Jolla!
Paddleboarding is another fantastic way to explore the calm waters of La Jolla Shores. This activity is perfect for those looking to enjoy a more relaxed pace while still engaging in a full-body workout. Paddleboarders can glide over the clear waters, offering a vantage point to see fish and other marine creatures below.
For those seeking a deeper underwater adventure, scuba diving in La Jolla is an unparalleled experience. The La Jolla Underwater Park and Ecological Reserve is a top spot for diving, featuring underwater canyons, kelp forests, and a rich diversity of marine life.
FAQs About Snorkeling on the “Best Coast”
What are the best snorkeling spots on the West Coast of the U.S.?
The West Coast offers several prime snorkeling locations, including:
◾ La Jolla Cove, California: Famous for its underwater park and sea lion sightings.
◾ Channel Islands National Park, California: Known for its diverse marine life and clear waters.
◾ Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, California: Offers beautiful kelp forests and rich marine biodiversity.
◾ Puget Sound, Washington: Known for its unique cold-water marine life.
◾ Catalina Island, California: Clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a top snorkeling destination.
What is the best time of year to go snorkeling on the West Coast?
The best time for snorkeling is typically during the summer months, from June to September, when the water is warmer and visibility is better. However, specific locations like Southern California can offer good snorkeling conditions year-round.
Do I need a wetsuit for snorkeling?
Yes, a wetsuit is recommended for snorkeling in La Jolla and other West Coast locations due to the cooler water temperatures, especially in northern areas like Washington and Oregon. In Southern California, a lighter wetsuit or even a rash guard may suffice during the summer months.
Is snorkeling safe for beginners?
Snorkeling can be safe for beginners if you choose calm and sheltered spots, such as La Jolla Cove or Catalina Island. It’s a good idea to check the local conditions, use appropriate gear, and consider taking a guided tour if you’re new to snorkeling.
What marine life can I expect to see while snorkeling on the West Coast?
You can expect to see a variety of marine life, including:
◾ Fish: Garibaldi, kelp bass, and rockfish.
◾ Invertebrates: Sea stars, anemones, and sea urchins.
◾ Marine mammals: Sea lions, harbor seals, and occasionally dolphins.
◾ Kelp forests: Rich ecosystems with diverse species.
Are there any protected areas for snorkeling on the West Coast?
Yes, several marine protected areas offer excellent snorkeling opportunities, such as:
◾ La Jolla Ecological Reserve, California
◾ Channel Islands National Park, California
◾ Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, California
Can I rent snorkeling gear?
Yes, many coastal towns and popular snorkeling destinations have shops where you can rent snorkeling gear. When it comes to snorkel rental, La Jolla has many different establishments that can outfit you, offer tips, and rent the gear you need so you’re fully equipped for any aquatic excursion.
Are there any snorkeling regulations I should be aware of?
Yes, it’s important to follow local regulations to protect marine environments. This includes:
◾ Respecting marine protected areas: Avoid disturbing wildlife and adhere to no-take zones.
◾ Avoid touching or standing on coral reefs: Even though the West Coast has fewer coral reefs, it’s crucial to avoid damaging any underwater habitats.
◾ Keeping a safe distance from marine animals: Be kind and mindful by admiring wildlife from a distance to avoid causing stress or harm.
What should I bring for a snorkeling trip to La Jolla?
Essential items for snorkeling in La Jolla include:
◾ Snorkel, mask, and fins
◾ Wetsuit or rash guard
◾ Sunscreen (reef-safe)
◾ Towel and dry bag
◾ Water and snacks
◾ Underwater camera (optional)
Are there guided snorkeling tours available in La Jolla?
You bet! A La Jolla snorkeling tour will often provide gear, local expertise, and safety guidance, making them an outstanding option for beginners and those unfamiliar with the area.
Additional Tips
- Be sure to check weather and ocean conditions before heading out.
- Snorkel with a buddy for safety.
- Be mindful of currents and tides.
- Respect marine life and their habitats.
Enjoy your snorkeling adventure on the beautiful West Coast of the U.S.!
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