Not far from downtown La Jolla lies the
sheltered and scenic La Jolla Cove. The beach is located off the La
Jolla Coast Boulevard. One of the most photographed beaches in San Diego
County, the cove offers grassy parks, cascading sandstone cliffs, crystal
waters, kelp beds, stunning views and a lengthy path to stroll or run
on and enjoy it all.
This is an ideal place for scuba diving and snorkeling. Water visibility
at the Cove can sometimes exceed 30 feet and the Cove is within the
San Diego Underwater Park Ecological Reserve, which ensures that there
is ample marine life in the area to explore. There are several caves
carved into the cliffs between La Jolla Cove and La Jolla Shores Beach.
Almost all of the caves are accessible by kayak or scuba but not on
foot except for at extreme low tide.
Surfing is not reccommened at this beach because of the rocky surroundings
and lack of good sizeable waves. La Jolla Cove is for swimmers and divers.
This is where many of San Diego’s triathletes come to train. There
is even a buoy set out in front of the Cove to give them something to
swim towards. The protected area provides great conditions for these
two activites. Lifeguards are stationed year-round at the cove if you
have questions.
Just above La Jolla Cove is Scripps Park. This is a fantastic place
to picnic while overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It could also be a nice
tranquil place for a quick snooze under one of the parks plentiful trees.
Bring your book or extra work load to the large grassy area, for a quiet
and comfy getaway. There are even gazebos stationed along the cliff
for romantic sunsets. Unfortunately La Jolla Cove does not have bonfire
rings, therefore open fires are prohibited.
Parking can be a challenge at La Jolla Cove. Unlike La Jolla Shores,
there is no public parking lot. Street parking, along Scripps Park can
be difficult to find, especially during the summer months. It is limited
to three hours on weekdays and unlimited on weekends. You can also find
metered parking in downtown La Jolla, a short walk from the beach.
The summer is the best time to visit La Jolla Cove. There are free concerts
by the cove on Sundays during the summer months and a huge fire work
display for the 4th of July. If you can find parking and don’t
mind the summer traffic, it’s a wonderful place to visit.
Open 8am-6pm
No dogs allowed on the beach (check for evening leash laws)
Alcohol is allowed between 12:00 noon and 8:00 pm at Scripps Park
No camping
No vehicles on the beach
No fires
Bathrooms and showers available
