La Jolla Living: Everything You Need to Know About This San Diego Neighborhood

La Jolla Living: Everything You Need to Know About This San Diego Neighborhood

Today, there are over 39 million people who live in California. From relaxing beaches to tall redwood trees, there's something for everyone.

If you're considering moving to San Diego, you might be curious about which neighborhood to choose. There are various options, but it doesn't have to be complicated! Read this complete guide to learn more about La Jolla and why it's a family-friendly and fun neighborhood.

What Is La Jolla Cove?

La Jolla has a population of about 38,000 and an elevation of 110 feet. La Jolla Cove is a small coastal inlet surrounded by sandstone bluffs with La Jolla Cove Beach.

This area is one of southern California's most photographed, thanks to native plants, sea lions, and more. The cove is located in the center of La Jolla.

Safety Is la Jolla’s Top Concern

It's a safer place than most of the United States. Many residents state that police are responsive and visible in this safe neighborhood. The crime also isn't noticeable in the Jewel City.

The schools are also top-notch. There's Magnolia Science Academy San Diego, Preuss School UCSD, University City High School, Old Town Academy K-8 Charter School, and La Jolla High School. These schools receive A and A+ ratings.

You have Salk Institute, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, the University of California, and more for college kids. Many of the residents in this area have at least a college degree.

So Much To Do

Head to La Jolla Underwater Park for a unique take on marine life. You can see kelp, leopard sharks, sting rays, and more. This protected area allows you to kayak and scuba dive.

Don't forget to head to La Jolla Shores Beach. You can swim to the park from here.

Check out the Sunny Jim Sea Cave while you're there. La Jolla Cove has sea lions and birds that you can view.

Head to WindanSea Beach, where many locals go. Put surfing as your top leisure activity since surf breaks can go as high as ten feet!

All About La Jolla Cove Beach

La Jolla Cove beach is perfect for those with little children since it doesn't get strong waves. Keep in mind that it can get crowded in the summer, though.

When waves do break, though, they are strong. Avoid going during high tide since the beach is small.

Walking down the stairs, you'll see the sea lions bathing on rocks. Give them their space.

At low tide, you can walk to the other side of the cave. You can have the children relax and play there. You can hang out on the boardwalk if you'd rather not step on the beach.

Amenities include:

Public restrooms
Showers
Lifeguards
Green huts along the boardwalk
Picnic tables

You can't use kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, surfboards, and boogie boards at La Jolla Cove. This is because it's part of the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve.

Some other La Jolla beaches include:

Windansea Beach
La Jolla Shores
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club
Shell Beach
Children's Pool Beach
Black's Beach (for nudists only)

Sea Lions

Check out California sea lions at Point La Jolla! Be sure to give them their space.

You'll find the La Jolla seals at the Children's Pool Beach. They're fun to watch, playing in the water, relaxing, and barking.

The coastal walkway closes seasonally to protect newborn pups. But perfect for photography, you can still get great pictures of them right from the boardwalk.

Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, and More

San Diego beaches are known for their scuba diving and snorkeling. However, there's still plenty of visibility in the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park.

You might see anemones, sea stars, kelp bass, guitarfish, and more. If you don't want to go alone, some companies offer diving and snorkeling experiences.

Some tours include:

Snorkel San Diego: La Jolla Cove Snorkel Tour
La Jolla Kayak: La Jolla Cove Snorkel Tour
Snorkel and Scuba: La Jolla Cove and Caves Tour

You can also rent snorkeling gear at the cave store. In addition, La Jolla Swim and Sport has boogie boards, wetsuits, chairs, umbrellas, and more.

Off Shore Activities

There's plenty of shopping, including the La Plaza La Jolla, Westfield UTC, The Shops at La Jolla Village, and La Jolla Village Square.

Some of the Westfield UTC stores include:

Abercrombie & Fitch
ALDO
Gap
GNC
QUAY
Restoration Hardware
Reformation
NESPRESSO
The NEWSSTAND
And more

La Jolla Village Square has shopping, entertainment, restaurants, and more. It includes Marshalls, Jamba, DSW, Chipotle, Best Buy, and others.

The Shops at La Jolla Village include:

Citi
Bank of America
Austin Dental Arts La Jolla
Cava
Nordstrom Rack
Sprinkles
Spectrum
Whole Foods
And more

La Plaza La Jolla includes:

Catania Coastal Italian Cuisine
Brilliant Earth Ethically Sourced Fine Jewelry
The Hydration Room
Compass
Teuscher Chocolates
And more

Gorgeous Real Estate

From gorgeous mansions to affordable homes, there's something for everyone. The rental market is strong too. Many are looking for roommates in the area.

You're only 11 miles from downtown San Diego. It's also a coastal neighborhood instead of a city. Act fast if you see a home you like since it's a competitive market.

Some La Jolla neighborhoods include:

Windansea Beach
Torrey Pines
Bird Rock
La Jolla Shores
Mount Soledad
La Jolla Village
Village of La Jolla

Delicious Eats

From local craft beers at the Public House to the best sushi at Sushi Mori, there's something for everyone. Head to Catania for Italian eats overlooking ocean views.

The Shores Restaurant lets you enjoy modern California cuisine. Then, head to Jose's for Mexican cuisine.

For unique tacos, go to Galaxy Taco. From avocado to seafood tostadas, there's something for everyone.

Hennessey's La Jolla

For an Irish feel, head to Hennessey's La Jolla. Or you can try one of their burgers. Try their Moo Cluck Oink! Burger. It comes with cheddar cheese, bacon, and a fried egg.

They're open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner! There's plenty to choose from, including the Bacado Omelettes to the Hennessey's Breakfast Sandwich. Lunch and Dinner shine with Ahi Poke, Pub Nachos, gourmet burgers, and more.

The Taco Stand

Head to The Taco Stand for Tijuana street-style tacos. The tortillas are freshly made along with their guacamole and corn on the cob. Arrive early since it gets busy fast.

While the Taco Stand has multiple locations, La Jolla has plenty of delicious fares.

Some options include Pollo Asado (grilled chicken, cilantro, onions, guacamole, and salsa), Carne Asada, taco, quesadillas, breakfast, and burritos.

Vegans can have the Mushroom Taco or Nopal Taco sans cheese. The Nopal Taco allows you to substitute cheese with beans. It even comes with cactus!

Bistro Du Marché

The Bistro Du Marché is located right on Girard and is run by Chef Jean Michel Diot. Enjoy French cuisine with local ingredients!

From Chilled Roasted Manzano Tomato Soup to Faroe Islands Salmon, there's something for everyone. Try their Braised Wagyu Beef Top Blade with a Rhone Red Wine Sauce.

Desserts include:

Meyer's Lemon Tarte
Light Floating Island Meringue
Julian Apple Tarte Tatin
Semi Bitter Chocolate Fondant

La Jolla Climate

La Jolla has gorgeous and comfortable weather! The average high in August and September is 76 F, while January is a comfortable 66 F.

The wet season lasts about 4.6 months, from November 18th through April 6th. The dry season is from April 6th to November 18th.

The driest days are in June. The wettest day is in February.

Muggier weather lasts 3.3 months between June 29th and October 6th. Muggy days are only about 8% of the time. August has the muggiest days.

Don't forget your wetsuit! The warmer water temperatures are in August, with an average of 70 F. The cooler temperatures last a few months, with water temperatures at about 59 F.