La Jolla is home to some of the best beaches in San Diego. These beaches offer stunning views, tide pools to explore, and lots of opportunities for photo ops. La Jolla also has a lot of hidden gems that aren’t always easy to find.
You don’t have to be a geology expert to explore and appreciate the hidden La Jolla coves. This article will give you some insider information on the best spots for exploring tide pools or just lazing on the beach with a good book.
If you’re ready to pack your bags and hit the road, keep reading for more details about these top La Jolla beaches and their essential amenities.
How To Find Tide Pools In La Jolla
The tide pools at La Jolla are best viewed when the tide is very low. Tide tables can help you determine when the tide will be low.
Alternatively, you can spot the tide pools by looking for a line of rocks along the beach. When the tide is out, the rocks are exposed and create a clear line that can be seen from a distance.
La Jolla Shores
La Jolla Shores is one of San Diego's most popular beaches. This sandy beach is wide and flat, so it’s great for families with young kids and those who have trouble getting around.
At low tide you can also explore the tide pools along the rocky coastline to the south, towards the sea caves. La Jolla Shores is also located close to lots of great dining and shopping, so you can make a day of it and come visit us on Avenida de la Playa.
Children's Pool and La Jolla Cove
There are a few different beaches to explore in the La Jolla Cove area. Children’s Pool Beach is most popular because it’s a protected cove for families.
You can explore the tide pools along the rocky coastline at low tide or walk out to the jetty for a stunning view of the cove.
If you like to scuba dive, the La Jolla Cove area is also a great place to explore the underwater world.
Blacks Beach
Blacks Beach is one of California's best beaches. It’s long, vast and secluded beach is a perfect place for a walk or relax with a good book. This beach generates some of San Diego's biggest waves is not ideal for swimming or beginner surfers, but it’s still a fantastic place to visit.
You can walk to the furthest Southern point for rocky tide pools, or to the Northern point at Torrey Pines, where you’ll find a small cave that’s great for exploring. Black’s Beach is clothing-optional, so you may see a few topless bathers lounging on the shore.
Keep in mind that this is a peaceful beach that many people enjoy. So, you won’t see much action here beyond the occasional topless sunbather. The best parking for Black’s Beach is on La Jolla Farms Road, be sure to follow any posted restrictions.
Tips for Visiting the La Jolla Tide Pools
The La Jolla Tide Pools are one of the top places to visit in La Jolla. They are a great place to see marine life up close, but they can also be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. Here are a few tips to ensure your tide pool visit is safe.
Check the tide table before you visit to ensure the tide is low enough to see the tide pools
We use apps like Surfline and Magic Seaweed to check the high and low tides for the day. You can also call (619)221-8824 for the San Diego Beach and Weather report made daily by lifeguards.
Wear water shoes
The rocks can be slippery and we wouldn't considering stepping on shells to necessarily be fun. We'd recommend wearing some waterproof sandals or even an old pair of sneakers you don't mind getting wet.
Which Marine Life Can You Expect to See?
The La Jolla Tide Pools are one of the best places to see marine life up close. You’ll often see seals, anemones, sea stars, sea urchins, and hermit crabs. One of the best tide pools for seeing sea stars is the "Gut" tide pool, which is smaller than most of the other ones and a bit harder to find.
You can also find sea anemones in the Gut Tide Pool. Sea anemones are animals that live on rocks and look like flowers.
Experience California With Everyday California
Experience California with us! We can take you out to explore one of the most beautiful beaches and surf spots in La Jolla.
Everyday California is a pioneer in the San Diego area, offering a wide range of experiences from kayak and snorkeling tours to surf lessons, rentals, SUP lessons, surf camp, California apparel and even sunscreen!
We are committed to providing you with the best of California. Our team members are highly trained and passionate about what they do. We have extensive knowledge of the local environment and will ensure your time on the water is safe and unforgettable.
Book your tour with us now! For inquiries, call us at (858) 454-6195.
We look forward to getting you out on the water with us!
Final Words
La Jolla is a beautiful coastal town brimming with culture and natural beauty. This city is a great place to visit year-round, but it's especially wonderful during the summer when the weather is warm and sunny.
You’ll find many great places to explore in La Jolla, from sandy beaches to rocky coves. Whether you’re visiting for work or pleasure, these top beaches are perfect for exploring San Diego’s coastal wonders.
