La Jolla Cove
Photo: Mollymcc · CC0 1.0
About
The cove is part of the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park, an ecological reserve where fishing and the collection of marine invertebrates are prohibited, a protection that has helped the water stay clear and rich with life. California sea lions regularly haul out on the beach and surrounding rocks, and the cove is known for having an unusually large population of orange Garibaldi, California's state marine fish, making it a popular spot for snorkelers who want an easy look at bright, easy-to-spot fish without a boat.
Every September, the cove hosts the La Jolla Cove Rough Water Swim, an open-water race that is among the oldest ocean swims in the world. Because the beach and its bluff-top views are free to visit and the marine life is visible right from the shoreline, it works well for families who want an ocean experience without paying for a boat tour or an aquarium ticket, though on-street parking nearby is limited and often fills up on weekends.
Visitor information
Admission The cove and beach are free to visit at any time; nearby parking is on-street only and limited, so arriving early on weekends is recommended.
Getting there MTS bus routes serve La Jolla village, a short walk from the cove, and lifeguards, showers, and restrooms are available on-site.
