La Jolla is a popular beach resort and upscale residential area in San Diego. Its name means ‘jewel’ in Spanish, and true to its name, La Jolla is known for its beautiful beaches and sophisticated streets. With attractions like Ellen Browning Scripps Park and La Jolla Cove, there’s no shortage of sights to see, and you can enjoy strolling, shopping, and gourmet dining all day!
Start Your Walk from Ellen Browning Scripps Park!
Begin your stroll at Ellen Browning Scripps Park, a scenic park along the beach with a spacious grassy area perfect for picnics and relaxation. From the park, you can enjoy a stunning 180-degree ocean view!
While weekends and holidays can be crowded, you may be lucky to find parking along Coast Blvd. However, due to frequent parking-related traffic, using a nearby paid parking lot is also recommended.
You might spot seals and sea lions along the walkway toward La Jolla Cove. There are viewpoint benches and access points to the ocean, making it an enjoyable and scenic walk where you can also see caves. (Note: The smell of seaweed can be strong, so if you’re sensitive to it, turning back at some point might be a good option.)
Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave Store
About a 10-minute walk from Ellen Browning Scripps Park, you’ll reach Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave Store, where you can enter a cave and enjoy a unique scenic view. If you have the time, be sure to check it out!
Highlights of La Jolla Downtown
Head opposite to the ocean at Ellen Browning Scripps Park, and you’ll arrive in La Jolla Downtown. With palm-lined streets like Girard Avenue and Coast Blvd, it’s a quintessential San Diego scene! Walking from the park towards Girard Avenue, you’ll find open-air bars and cafes lined up, making it hard to choose where to stop—they’re all so appealing.
Girard Avenue and Prospect Street intersection is the heart of La Jolla Downtown, featuring incredibly charming restaurants and upscale shops. You’ll also find jewelry and beachwear stores, making window shopping and casual strolling enjoyable activities. Dining at an outdoor restaurant with ocean views under the blue sky is highly recommended. The Spanish-style buildings blend beautifully with the blue sky and beach, showcasing La Jolla’s unique and picturesque atmosphere.
Convenient Parking Information and Tips
Although free parking is available in La Jolla, spaces are limited. It’s convenient to use paid parking from the start or park a bit farther away during busy times. Also, the coastal breeze can make it feel chilly, even in summer, so a light jacket is a must.
La Jolla, where beautiful nature meets a touch of luxury, is an essential spot for any San Diego visit. You can enjoy La Jolla just by taking a stroll or window shopping!
Ellen Browning Scripps Park
(Girard Avenue x Coast Blvd)
1100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037
Downtown La Jolla
Many shops are at Girard Avenue, Prospect Street, and Wall Street intersections.
Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave Store
1325 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037
La Jolla Shore Park
8300 Camino Del Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037
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