La Jolla Cove (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is La Jolla Cove?
What makes it 83% Kids-Friendly: Kids can swim under lifeguard supervision, hunt tide-pool creatures, and watch sea lions, but strong surf at high tide, slippery rocks, and scarce shade mean parents must stay alert all visit.
Positives:
- Lifeguarded Beach: Rangers on duty year-round add extra safety for kids.
- Free Family Activities: Tidepools, seal watching, and park play cost nothing.
- Stroller-friendly Paths: Paved walkways and nearby restrooms ease travel with young children.
Challenges:
- Limited Parking: Lots fill up by mid-morning; street spots can be scarce.
- Strong Sun: Cliffs offer little shade; pack sunblock, hats, and umbrellas.
- Slippery Surfaces: Wet rocks and stairs can be slick—hold hands and wear grippy shoes.
What is La Jolla Cove?
- A small, sheltered cove carved into the sandstone cliffs of La Jolla’s Pacific coastline
- A State Marine Conservation Area encompassing vibrant kelp forests, rocky reefs and intertidal tide pools
- A natural habitat for harbor seals, sea lions and diverse subtidal marine life
What is so special about La Jolla Cove for with kids?
- Interactive tidepools let kids discover sea creatures.
- Safe seal viewing from the Children’s Pool seawall.
- Shallow, lifeguarded cove for splash play.
- Picnic areas and open lawn at Scripps Park.
- Sunny Jim Sea Cave offers a kid-friendly adventure.
Recommended visit duration: 3–5 hours
Why 3–5 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: 3 to 5 hours lets kids explore tidepools, swim in the cove, and enjoy a picnic without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in La Jolla Cove
Explore tidepools at Shell Beach:
At low tide, little ones can spot sea stars, crabs, and anemones in shallow pools.
Tip: Check tide charts and arrive 2 hours before low tide; bring water shoes.
Watch seals at Children’s Pool Beach:
Kids can safely view harbor seals from the seawall outside pupping season.
Tip: Visit between Dec 15 and May 15 for best seal activity; stay behind barriers.
Swim and splash at La Jolla Cove:
Clear, lifeguarded waters let confident swimmers have fun.
Tip: Bring floaties for your 3-year-old; use the shallow entry points.
Picnic at Ellen Browning Scripps Park:
Grassy bluffs feature picnic tables and room to run.
Tip: Pack snacks, a blanket, and a frisbee; look for shaded tables.
Descend into Sunny Jim Sea Cave:
Safe, 144-step spiral staircase leads into a sea cave.
Tip: Kids 3+ with adult help; buy tickets ($5 adult, $3 child) at the Cave Store.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to La Jolla Cove
- Arrive Early: Beat crowds and secure parking before 9 AM.
- Check Tide Tables: Use NOAA or local apps to plan around low tide.
- Pre-book Rentals: Reserve snorkel gear or kayak tours online to save time.
Reviews of La Jolla Cove
Patty Fields
This was a great place to see the ocean, seals, and sea lions. It’s an easy walk along the water. The only downside was lack of restaurants close by (since we didn’t have a car).
Isaac L
La Jolla Cove is absolutely stunning! It’s much more than just a beach; there’s a great park area with grass that is perfect for a family picnic. We even saw street performers making massive bubbles, which the kids loved. The absolute highlight is the wildlife. There are so many seals and birds everywhere—watching the seals play in the water or just chill on the rocks is fascinating. Word of cau...
Caleb Soberanes
Beautiful place a must in San Diego tourism. The trail provides incredible views and scenery. The Cove it self harnesses an oceanic eco system with a variety of sea life. Don’t get to the seal ions or seals. The area is heavily protected by rangers and lifeguards. Great place to enjoy from unique sea adventure or just a stroll with the family. Restrooms areas are clean as wells as showers. Play ar...
Aaron E.J O'brien
Beautiful ocean views and a scenic landscape surround the beach. You can see sea lions up close. Anyone traveling to San Diego should visit this spot to enjoy its magnificent natural beauty.
E. H.
Beautiful place to walk, watch the birds & the seals, and see the sunset. We were able to grab a Lyft from our hotel downtown very easily and it was the perfect last day to our San Diego trip.
When is the best time to visit La Jolla Cove (San Diego, United States)?
Summer weekends get crowded—visit early or on weekdays. Tidepools peek at low tide year-round. Seal pupping runs mid-May to mid-December at Children’s Pool.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parking at Lot 1 or metered street | USD 12 |
| Snorkel gear rental (4 sets) | USD 140 |
| Sunny Jim Sea Cave tickets | USD 16 |
| Total Estimated | USD 168 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of La Jolla Cove
Address: La Jolla Cove, San Diego, CA 92037, USA
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