Chasing Adventure in La Jolla From Surfing to Kayaking With Whales
La Jolla is home to some of the best beaches in all of California, its beautiful seven-mile shoreline sporadically punctuated by scenic cliffs. Twelve miles to the north of San Diego, it’s an upscale vacation destination that doesn’t feel like a tourist trap. Instead, find secluded beaches, quiet spots to dine, and houses and resorts on higher ground angled in anticipation of the sunset over the Pacific. But the beaches aren’t the only draw of La Jolla, as the town claims Dr. Seuss as its most famous resident; its native Monterey Cypress trees are the obvious inspiration for The Lorax’s Truffula trees. Beachgoers, foodies, and families will all find something to their liking in La Jolla.
Where to Adventure in La Jolla
2160 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037
Surf Diva began as a surf school for women but gained such a following over the years that sisters, Izzy and Coco Tihanyi, have since opened the school to everyone. Here you’ll find surf classes for all ages as well as gear rentals. Izzy is a former professional surfer and instructor while Coco runs the shop and business end. Together, they run the longest standing surf school in La Jolla where surf instructors tailor lessons to each person’s skill level. La Jolla is a great place to learn the sport because waves along this stretch of shore are calmer than other beaches in the San Diego area. Lessons start with the basics, including dryland board body positioning and learning the mechanics of a rip tide. Once in the water, instructors are right by your side to show you how to paddle over oncoming waves and battle over larger sets to find the sweet spot. For first time surfers, few things are as exciting as the rush of a wave pushing you all the way to shore. Just don’t forget to throw up a shocka!
La Jolla Kayaking Tours with Everyday California
2243 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037
Gorgeous sandstone cliffs towering one hundred feet tall. A cave that was used to sneak in illegal Chinese immigrants and, later on, contraband whiskey. Kayaking. All three of these can be experienced during a two-mile kayaking excursion from La Jolla shores to La Jolla cove with Everyday California. Kayaking in big water brings a new take on the sport with more action as you traverse open ocean rollers and vast views. Expect to spot wildlife, including sea lions and seals year round, whales in winter, leopard sharks in summer, and the bright orange Garibaldi fish in the summer, which inspired Dr. Seuss’s depiction of its nervous bowl-bound cousin in The Cat in the Hat. Along the way tour guides add in a few elements to keep things fresh—earn bragging rights by standing up and balancing on the kayak against the rush of waves or hold your breath as you dive ten feet under to grab a handful of sand.
12600 North Torrey Pines Road, San Diego CA 92037
At Torrey Pines State Reserve, find two thousand acres dedicated to maintaining the Torrey pine tree. The reserve is a glimpse into what Southern California would have looked like before European settlers claimed residency, featuring cliffs overlooking the ocean and a lagoon used by migrating birds. It sports an extensive network of trails across its sparse landscape, and on weekends and holidays you can join guided nature walks and learn more about the unique Southern Californian landscape. One option is to take Beach Trail to Razor Point, where you hike along sand dune formations before ending up on the beach at Flat Rock. Bicycles are allowed on the main road, but not on the trails. Pets should be left at home.
Where to Dine in La Jolla
1277 Prospect St, La Jolla, California
It’s not just California and Rainbow Rolls at Shiku sushi. Chef James La doesn’t hold back when it comes to throwing out unexpected flavors like the Hunny, with jumbo shrimp tempura and siracha honey aioli, and the Green Lantern, featuring tempura green beans, cucumber, avocado, sprouts, Serrano chilies, and a side of salsa fresca. Happy Hour is a chance to snag one-dollar bottles of sake and some locally brewed beers.
2161 Avenida De La Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037
Or, grab sushi to go from the ivy-shrouded Sushi Mori and watch the sunset from your patio at the La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club. Two top picks are the Sunset Roll, made with spicy crab and cucumber as well as the Lobster Beach Roll, a crab, gobo, and avocado interior wrapped in asparagus and green onion and baked with spicy mayo. Take advantage of Sushi Mori’s happy hour, from 4pm to 8pm for 20% off your food.
7702 Fay Avenue La Jolla, CA 92037
Reviews prove The Cottage is a favorite spot of the locals. Order the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with blueberries grilled inside and it’s almost like dessert for breakfast. For a more savory take, try the California Benedict with turkey breast, English muffin, and avocado. Enjoy with a cup of organic coffee on the porch outlined with a white picket fence, surrounded by brightly colored ocean bungalows.
Where to Stay in La Jolla
La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club
2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, CA 92037
For a private beach right out of your hotel room door, stay at La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club, one of the few spots in town that offers private waterfront access. One-bedroom suites are complete with a living room and full size kitchen for those that want to enjoy a night in. Or cook outdoors, after renting a barbecue or fire pit to start up on the beach. Lounge chairs, umbrellas, towels, and wind boards are also available for rent. With views of La Jolla cove and white capped waves seen from your back porch, the view is captivating enough to hold your attention for more than a mere moment.
