One of the coolest spots in La Jolla sits
south of the La Jolla Cove on Coast Boulevard. The Children's Pool,
also known as the Casa (house), is a small beach partially protected
by a rock seawall. The seawall was implemented to protect the children
swimming in the area from the heavy surf, but the local marine life
took over soon after. The small stretch of sand is now covered inch
by inch with sea lions and seals basking in the sun. You can often times
see seal pups as well. The seawall is now used by tourists who want
to catch a closer glimpse or snap a photo of the seals.
There has recently been controversy over whether or not to remove the
seals and make the Children’s pool a people beach again, but it
was decided that the area could be shared. Swimming and diving are now
allowed at the Children’s pool, under the following conditions.
You must stay at least 20 ft away from the seals (marine mammals are
protected under federal law). If you choose to swim or dive around this
area lifeguards warn that the seals, although adorable, are wild animals
and can be territorial, especially around their young. This is a popular
beach for scuba diving because of the reefs offshore. Watch out for
heavy surf and strong currents, which can create hazardous diving conditions.
People mostly come to this beach to check out the seals, but other activites
can be practised around the surrounding area. Although boards are not
permitted in the Children’s pool area, there is a reef break loacted
south of the beach. This break is often times very intense, therefore
not reccomended for beginners. Also south of Children’s pool is
Boomer beach, great for body surfing. South of the Children’s
pool are some great places to explore tide pools. The La Jolla shoreline
in general is blessed with an abundance of tide pools, filled with unique
marine life.
The trails next to Coast boulevard are great for walking and hiking
and provide beautiful coastal views. There are also several park benches
and gazebo vista points that are perfect for watching the sunset.
Parking can be tricky, especially during summer months when downtown
La Jolla is packed with tourists. There is limited 3 hour street parking
on Coast boulevard and on side streets. You can also find paid parking
in down town La Jolla, a short walk from the beach. Fortuneately the
best time to visit the sea lions is during the off season; spring, winter
and fall.
No alcohol (8pm-12am)
No dogs (9am-4pm Nov 1st- March 31st)
(9am-6pm April 1st – Oct 31st)
No glass containers
No fires (midnight-5am)
Fires are permitted, only in the fire rings.
No camping
Restrooms with showers are located beneath the lifeguard station
