La Jolla Cove

Not far from downtown La Jolla — an upscale hamlet of hotels, boutiques, and galleries — lies La Jolla Cove, a swimming and diving paradise. This tiny beach nook, part of the San Diego La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve, is sheltered by picturesque cliffs and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean in an intimate setting.

La Jolla Cove has some of the clearest water of all San Diego beaches, making it ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling. The gentle lapping waves of La Jolla Cove also make for an enjoyable day of sunbathing, picnicking, or reading a book.

Just above La Jolla Cove is Scripps Park, a great place for romping and picnicking while taking in the majestic Pacific Ocean.

The walking trails next to Coast Boulevard, above the beach, offer world-class views of the water and the sandstone cliffs leading down to ocean’s edge. Need a beach break? Check out the San Diego County Museum of Modern Art nearby.

La Jolla Cove Parking, Lifeguards, Restroom ( La Jolla Map )

Lifeguards are stationed year-round. Scripps Park has public restrooms and showers. There is no disabled access at La Jolla Cove because of the steep incline down to the beach. Sorry surfers, La Jolla Cove is for swimmers and divers only.

There are no parking lots next to the beach, and street parking (metered during the week) fills up quickly on summer weekends. It’s best to come early, park downtown in one of the paid lots, or stroll down to the beach from the hotel. Downtown is a short distance from the beach.

La Jolla Cove Directions ( La Jolla Map )

La Jolla Cove is located at 1100 Coast Boulevard. From the north, take I-5 to La Jolla Village Drive, west. Turn left on Torrey Pines Road and follow it to Prospect Street and turn right. Bear right on Coast Boulevard and look for signs. From the south, take I-5 north to Ardath Road, which will turn into Torrey Pines Road. Follow Torrey Pines Road to Prospect Street and turn right. Stay right on Coast Boulevard and look for signs.

La Jolla Cove Snorkeling

La Jolla Cove is — hands-down — the best location for snorkeling in San Diego. The water is very calm, suitable for children and beginners. Undersea life is abundant and very close to shore. For the best experience, arrive early and find a little nook on the beach to lay your towels and gear. Snorkeling gear rentals are available on Coast Boulevard and Prospect Street, a block or two away.