A small protected cove with sea lions, harbor seals, brown pelicans and snorkeling in the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park, backed by a clifftop path and Ellen Browning Scripps Park.
La Jolla Cove is a small, sheltered inlet at 1100 Coast Blvd in the La Jolla neighborhood of San Diego, California, set below the grassy lawns of Ellen Browning Scripps Park. The cove sits within the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park, and its clear water draws snorkelers, swimmers and divers who see garibaldi, leopard sharks in season and kelp forest life close to shore. On the rocks and bluffs, California sea lions and harbor seals rest in large numbers, and brown pelicans and cormorants perch along the cliffs, so wildlife viewing needs no equipment. A clifftop path runs from the cove along the coast, with views over sea caves and rocky points, and stairs and a small beach give access to the water. The surrounding park is a popular spot for picnics and sunset watching. A typical visit takes one to two hours, longer for those who swim or snorkel. Mornings usually bring calmer water, easier parking and softer light for photographs, while afternoons and weekends are busy, especially in summer. Street parking in the village is limited and metered, so many visitors walk from farther away or take a rideshare. Low tide exposes tide pools nearby, and conditions change with swell, so checking with the lifeguards before entering the water is sensible. Visitors should keep a respectful distance from the marine mammals, which can be aggressive when approached, and should follow posted rules, since the animals have the right of way on the rocks and stairs. The nearby village of La Jolla offers cafes and shops within a short walk.
| Admission | Free; street parking is limited and metered |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open daily; cove access at all hours subject to tide and lifeguard conditions |
| Typical visit | 1-2 hours |
| Best time | Morning for calmer water and parking; low tide for tide pools |
| Getting there | MTS bus 30 to La Jolla Village then a short walk; rideshare recommended on weekends |
| Address | 1100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037 |
Location
1100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037
32.8506, -117.2713 View on map
Highlights
- Snorkel or swim in the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park
- Watch sea lions and harbor seals on the rocks
- Walk the clifftop path through Ellen Browning Scripps Park
- Look for brown pelicans and cormorants along the bluffs
- Photograph the cove at sunset
Tips for visiting
- Arrive in the morning to find parking and calmer water.
- Keep a safe distance from sea lions and seals, which can bite.
- Check with the lifeguards on swell and current conditions before swimming.
- Bring water shoes, as the rocks are slippery.
- Consider a rideshare on summer weekends when street parking fills.
When to visit
Mornings offer calmer water and easier parking, and low tide is best for tide pools. Summer afternoons and weekends are the most crowded.
Accessibility
Ellen Browning Scripps Park and the clifftop viewpoints are largely level and accessible. Access to the water is by stairs and over rocks, which is difficult for wheelchair users.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
One to two hours covers the viewpoints and clifftop path. Snorkeling or picnicking adds time.
Is La Jolla Cove worth it for kids?
Yes, children enjoy the sea lions and the park lawns. Parents should watch them closely near slippery rocks and wildlife.
Is there an entry fee?
No, the cove and park are free. Street parking is metered and limited.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, and the sea lions, cliffs and sunsets are popular subjects.