Skip to main content
(855) 476-6870
An aerial view of a pink building overlooking the ocean, La Valencia Hotel, La Jolla California
Book your stay

Or Call To Reserve (855) 476-6870

A large rock formation
Back to all Attractions

La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove is a scenic beach framed by sandstone cliffs below Scripps Park. Known for calm blue waters, marine life, and activities like swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving, it offers unforgettable coastal beauty just steps from La Valencia.

Plan your visit

Hours

Open daily, lifeguards are on duty from 9am to dusk.

Prices

Beach admission is free.

Events
  • Fourth of July Fireworks
  • Concerts By the Sea
  • Rough Water Swim
Activities
  • Snorkeling
  • Swimming
  • Diving
  • Kayaking
  • Scuba Diving
  • Photography

Know before you go

Can I Fish Near La Jolla Cove?

As part of the La Jolla Underwater Park, La Jolla Cove is a marine refuge that protect marine life. Due to Park restrictions, there is no fishing right at the cove. If you walk a little north on the beach toward Scripps Pier, there is fishing access starting at the stairs closest to the pier and to its north. You can catch a variety of finfish, but not invertebrates like lobster or aquatic plants.

Where Is The Best Tide Pooling In La Jolla Cove?

At low tide, the sea lions and seals head out to the rock islands in the ocean, making it easy to walk the big flat rocky section between Boomer’s Beach and La Jolla Cove. Here you can see a variety of crabs and sea anemones in the tide pools. There’s also a small cave and rocky area near La Jolla Cove Beach. Walk south from La Jolla Cove to Shell Beach and South Casa Beach to explore tide pools with sea anemones, crabs and limpets. Head over to the Children’s Pool, a small picturesque beach and a haven for sunbathing seals. Venture across the seawall to watch the seals play in the surf.