Three people sitting on kayaks in the ocean, passing a piece of kelp between each other.

La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks: An Exciting Adventure in San Diego

Kayaking in the sea caves of La Jolla is a one-of-a-kind adventure that combines stunning natural beauty, marine life sightings, and exciting physical activity.
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If you’re on the hunt for an exciting and unique experience in the San Diego area, look no further than exploring La Jolla Cove's sea caves by kayak! This unique adventure of kayaking in the sea caves of La Jolla is a wonderful combination of breathtaking natural beauty, sightings of marine life, and a fun physical activity.

In this post, we are going to go over everything there is to know when it comes to La Jolla sea cave kayaking, including everything to expect as well as how to best come prepared for this incredible experience.

Two kayakers in the same kayak paddling in the ocean alongside a sea cave in La Jolla on an Everyday California sea cave kayak tour.

La Jolla Cove Overview

La Jolla Cove is a stunning and popping destination in San Diego, located less than 20 minutes north of downtown. The Cove itself is a small, protected beach that is known for its crystal clear water and is surrounded by cliffs. It’s known for it’s abundant sea life and beautiful sunsets. The cove is also home to seven sea caves that can only be accessed by boat or kayak.

Sea Cave Kayaking: What to Expect

Sea cave kayaking is a popular activity in La Jolla Cove. It's a fun way to explore the sea caves while also experiencing a close view of the sea life that inhabits them. Here are some considerations to keep in mind before you go:

Safety Considerations

Kayaking in these sea caves can be challenging physically, so you’ll want to ensure that you’re in adequate physical condition. Anyone participating should also be able to swim and feel comfortable in the water. It's also crucial to wear a life vest at all times while kayaking.

Gear and Equipment

Using the appropriate kayaking gear and equipment is essential for a safe and fun experience. Most tour companies provide all the equipment that you will need, including kayaks, paddles, life vests, and helmets.

Two kayakers in the same kayak being pushed over a small wave in the shallow ocean by a sea cave kayak tour tour guide at Everyday California.

La Jolla's Seven Sea Caves: A Guide

La Jolla Cove is home to seven sea caves that are only accessible by boat or kayak. Here is a guide to the seven caves and what you can expect to see inside each one:

Sunny Jim Cave

Sunny Jim Cave is the largest and most well-known sea cave in La Jolla Cove. It's accessible through a long, dark tunnel that leads down to the cave's entrance. Once inside, you'll see a large chamber with a hole in the ceiling that lets in sunlight. The cave is named after a cartoon character from the early 1900s who used to sell cereal with a picture of the cave on the box.

Sea Surprise

Sea Surprise is a smaller cave that's known for its vibrant colors and interesting rock formations. It's located near Sunny Jim Cave and is a popular spot for photos.

Arch Cave

Arch Cave is named for the natural arch formation at its entrance. It's a shallow cave that's best explored during low tide.

Clam's Cave

Clam's Cave is named for the clam-shaped rock formation at its entrance. It's a small cave that's best explored during low tide.

Little Sister Cave

Little Sister Cave is a narrow cave that's only accessible during low tide. It's named after the rock formation at its entrance that resembles a smaller version of nearby Big Sister Cave.

White Lady Cave

White Lady Cave is named for the white-colored rock formations at its entrance. It's a shallow cave that's best explored during low tide.

Shopping Cart Cave

Shopping Cart Cave is named for the shopping cart that's embedded in the rock formation at its entrance. It's a small cave that's best explored during low tide.

Exploring these seven sea caves is a truly unique and exhilarating experience that's only available in La Jolla Cove. Book your sea cave kayaking tour with Everyday California today and discover the beauty and wonder of these natural wonders.

Two kayakers sitting in the same kayak on a sea cave kayak tour in La Jolla with Everyday California. There are no waves in the ocean and there are sea caves in the background of the photo.

Tips For A Great Sea Cave Kayak Experience:

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your sea cave kayaking tour:

Dress Appropriately

You will want to wear comfortable, quick-drying clothing and shoes that you don’t mind getting wet. You may also want to bring a change of clothes for after the tour.

Bring Essentials

We recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. You may also want to bring a waterproof camera or a waterproof bag to protect your belongings.

Respect Nature and Wildlife

We ask that everyone respects the natural environment and wildlife of La Jolla Cove. Please do not touch or disturb the marine life or the rock formations, and follow your guide's instructions at all times.

Listen To Your Guide

Our guides are there to ensure your safety and provide an educational experience. Please listen to their instructions and guidance at all times.

Have Fun!

Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the unique experience of sea cave kayaking in La Jolla Cove. This is an unforgettable adventure that you'll remember for years to come.

What Sets Everyday California Apart:

At Everyday California, we strive to provide our guests with the best possible experience on their sea cave kayaking tour. Here are some of the things that set us apart from other tour companies:

Small Group Tours

We believe that small group tours provide a more personalized and enjoyable experience for our guests. Our sea cave kayaking tours are limited to six people per guide, ensuring that each guest receives individual attention and guidance.

Expert Guides

Our guides are not only experienced kayakers, but also experts on the marine life and geology of La Jolla Cove. They are passionate about sharing their knowledge with our guests and ensuring that everyone has a safe and educational experience.

High-Quality Equipment

We take pride in our state-of-the-art equipment, including our kayaks, paddles, life vests, and helmets. Our gear is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure that it meets the highest safety standards.

Environmental Stewardship

We are committed to protecting the natural environment of La Jolla Cove and minimizing our impact on the marine life and ecosystem. Our guides are trained to educate our guests on responsible kayaking practices and the importance of preserving the Cove for future generations.

Two kayakers in the same kayak on a sea cave kayak tour with Everyday California, paddling alongside towering sea cave cliffs. The ocean is calm, there are no waves.

What To Expect On Your Sea Cave Kayak Tour:

When you book a sea cave kayaking tour with Everyday California, you can expect a fun, educational, and adventurous experience. Here's what you can expect on your tour:

Safety Briefing

Before your tour begins, your guide will provide a thorough safety briefing, including kayaking techniques, emergency procedures, and what to expect on the tour.

Gear Fitting

We provide all the necessary equipment, including kayaks, paddles, life vests, and helmets. Your guide will ensure that each guest is properly fitted with the appropriate gear for a safe and comfortable experience.

Cave Exploration

Your guide will lead you through the seven sea caves of La Jolla Cove, sharing their knowledge of the marine life and geology of the area. You'll have the opportunity to see sea lions, harbor seals, bat rays, leopard sharks, and other marine life up close.

Stunning Views

The sea caves of La Jolla Cove are known for their stunning natural beauty and unique rock formations. Your tour will provide you with breathtaking views of the Cove and the Pacific Ocean.

Educational Experience

Our guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge of the marine life and geology of La Jolla Cove. You'll learn about the history and ecology of the area and gain a new appreciation for this unique natural environment.

Book Your Sea Cave Kayak Tour With Everyday California

Ready to experience the thrill of sea cave kayaking in La Jolla Cove? Book your tour with Everyday California today! Our small group tours, expert guides, high-quality equipment, and environmental stewardship ensure that you'll have a safe, educational, and unforgettable experience.


To book your tour, visit our website at everydaycalifornia.com or contact us. We can't wait to show you the beauty and excitement of La Jolla Cove's sea caves!

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