Have you been looking for fun things to do in La Jolla?
Read ahead for our top picks that you’ll LOVE!
If you’ve been on the hunt for things to do in La Jolla that are suitable for the whole family, then you’re in the right place.
This list of things to do in La Jolla covers everything from beach visits to unique art galleries. As a result, there should be something on here for literally everyone!
We’ve done our best to include things to do in La Jolla for travelers of every budget. So, whether you’re on a budget or have the cash to splash, you’re bound to find a few new things to do in La Jolla for your itinerary.
Now let’s jump in!
The Best Things to do in La Jolla
Visit La Jolla Cove
To kick off our list of things to do in La Jolla, we have La Jolla Cove!
Although this spot might be small, it’s one of the most popular things to do in La Jolla for swimmers and sunbathers.
From the glorious low tides to the glittering waters, palm trees, and stunning sidewalks with incredible views, it’s not to be missed!
Oh, and keep an eye out for a few cheeky sea lions along the way. It’s a great choice for things to do in La Jolla!
Read more about San Diego: 12 best places for paddle boarding in San Diego (Hint: La Jolla Cave is one of them!)
La Jolla Underwater Park
Next on our list of things to do in La Jolla – it’s the La Jolla Underwater Park.
This place has always been among the best things to do in La Jolla as it’s based in a protected area that’s packed with healthy marine life.
So, you can expect to see everything from sharks to rays hanging around the waters.
There are plenty of great places to go snorkeling in San Diego.
But the spots around La Jolla water park are probably the best as the marine life never seems phased by humans!
Read more about San Diego: Top 20 best restaurants in San Diego with a view!
Birdseye Rooftop Bar
Our next suggestion for things to do in La Jolla, it’s rooftop cocktails at Birdseye Rooftop Bar!
How could we write a list of things to do in La Jolla, nad not include rooftop cocktails at sunset? It’s a classic way to enjoy the views and the sea breeze!
This is a perfect choice for a date night, or simply some afternoon drinks to pass the time, with great views!
Read more about La Jolla: Top 10 La Jolla restaurants on the water!
Scripps Pier
If you’re on the hunt for free things to do in La Jolla, why not head to Scripps Pier?
This is a fully working pier in San Diego and is used to study local sea life and measure any major changes to the oceans around these parts.
Although this is one of the things to do in La Jolla that isn’t full of actual activities, it’s a fabulous place to check out for photos!
And if you’re visiting La Jolla as a couple, why not take a romantic walk underneath the pier at sunset?
Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave
Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave is one of the weirder things to do in La Jolla, but it’s worth the excursion from the shore.
Believe it or not, you can access the cave from the land without having to strap on a snorkel or head out on a tugboat!
To tick this off your list of things to do in La Jolla, you’ll need to head to the Cave Store and head down 145 steps.
You’ll then reach the inside of the cave which costs around $5 at the entrance.
Read more about La Jolla: Our favorite cheap eats in La Jolla! For budget-friendly travelers!
Dine out at George’s at the Cove
Next on our list of things to do in La Jolla, it’s dining out at George’s at the Cove.
If you’re looking for somewhere special to eat during your time in La Jolla, this is a great choice and it oozes atmosphere.
This place has even been voted ‘San Diego’s Best Restaurant’ – so you know you’re in for a treat!
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The Spa at Estancia La Jolla
Next on our list of things to do in La Jolla, it’s visiting the Spa at Estancia La Jolla for some absolute pampering.
The Spa at Estancia La Jolla is one of the best spas in La Jolla, and it’s one of the most relaxing and beautiful things to do in La Jolla.
If you’re spending your vacation being super active (surfing, paddle boarding, etc) you might want to book yourself a massage and spa day towards the end of your trip!
It’s a great choice for things to do in La Jolla, especially for a special occasion!
Book yourself onto the ‘Sip, Sea and Savor’ food tour
Next on our list of fun things to do in La Jolla, it’s the amazing Sip, Sea and Savor food tour. If you love learning more about a place through the local food and drink – this is a perfect activity for you.
You’ll learn about La Jolla’s local history and culture as you explore the area, whilst popping in at iconic restaurants for food and drink tastings.
It’s so much fun, and a great way to spend time in La Jolla!
You can book your tickets by clicking here!
Stuart Collection
One of our favorite things to do in La Jolla for art lovers is the Stuart Collection.
This place is tucked away on the UC San Diego campus and boasts an amazing collection of 20 different sculptures and pieces of public art.
It’s 100% free and kids often enjoy picking out bizarre sculptures and taking photos in front of them.
One of them is literally a combination of enormous rocks!
Hey, you can’t beat free things to do in La Jolla, right?
La Jolla Recreation Center
Next on our list of things to do in La Jolla, we have a visit to the La Jolla Recreation Center!
Although you probably won’t be able to spend all day here, it’s among the top things to do in La Jolla for families.
This place is home to play structures, activity classes, basketball courts, and everything in between.
We wouldn’t say that this was one of the top things to do in La Jolla for tourists as there’s too much other stuff to cover in this part of San Diego.
But if you’re a local who’s looking to try something new – it’s a great choice!
La Jolla Shores Park
If you can’t get enough of San Diego’s beaches, then you’ll want to add Shores Park to your list of things to do in La Jolla.
This place is always packed with scuba divers and snorkelers. But you can easily pull out a beach towel and spend your day catching some rays.
Another reason that this is one of our top things to do in San Diego is down to the great restaurants and eateries in the area.
From the bougie Marine Room to the cheap and cheerful Brick & Bell café which serves cheap eats in La Jolla, it’s just perfect.
Read more about La Jolla: Top 12 best breakfast places in La Jolla!
Do a sea kayaking tour
Next up on our list of fun things to do in La Jolla, it’s a sea kayaking tour.
So much of what makes La Jolla magical is located on the coast, and a great way to explore it all, is by kayak!
Now, you can always rent a kayak and head out on your own, but we really recommend booking yourself onto a tour instead.
You’ll get the added advantage of sharing the experience with a group of like-minded travelers, but you’ll also get the safety and security of following an experienced guide.
You can book tickets by clicking here!
La Jolla Tide Pools
If you’re searching for fun things to do in La Jolla with kids, why not check out the La Jolla Tide Pools?
You’ll usually find the best sea creatures during the wintertime when the tides are super low.
But if you’re not sure when to visit, you can check out when the Birch Aquarium is running tide pooling experiences.
You’ll likely spot everything from slimy octopuses to crawly hermit crabs.
So, be sure to add it to your list of things to do in La Jolla if you’re traveling as a family!
Read more San Diego inspiration: 45 unique things to do in San Diego!
Explore the area on a bike!
Next on our list of things to do in La Jolla, it’s taking a fun bike tour!
We really recommend doing this e-bike tour, with a guide, so you can ensure you see everything worth seeing!
The e-bikes make the cycling a little easier too – so you can focus more on the views and sights of La Jolla!
Click here to book tickets for the La Jolla e-bike tour.
Eat at The Promiscuous Fork
The second restaurant we’ll be recommending on our list of things to do in La Jolla, is The Promiscuous Fork.
This highly-reviewed restaurant is so much fun, and there is so much passion behind the food here.
The Promiscuous Fork is dedicated to creating amazing flavors and combinations, and sending your tastebuds into a tailspin!
Map and Atlas Museum of La Jolla
No list of things to do in La Jolla would be complete without the Map and Atlas Museum!
As you might have guessed from its name, this is one of the best things to do in La Jolla for map and atlas enthusiasts.
It’s home to a collection of rare maps from La Jolla local Michael Stone (there are over 500 in here!) and you can spend hours poring over each one.
Although the opening times aren’t great, this is one of our top free things to do in La Jolla for travel enthusiasts.
Birch Aquarium
Next up on our list of things to do in La Jolla is the Birch Aquarium!
We recommend putting this together with a visit to the tidepools, but you don’t need to do both to have tons of fun.
Exploring the Giant Kelp Forest exhibit is one of the best things to do in La Jolla with kids.
But you’ll also spot over 60 fish habitats and several international species swimming around inside the enormous tanks here.
We love that this place teaches kiddos about the power of the planet through marine talks and climate exhibits.
So, it’s one of the best things to do in La Jolla if you’re traveling with curious tykes.
Take a yoga class
La Jolla is one of those locations that attracts people looking for self-care. So our next choice for things to do in La Jolla, it’s taking a yoga class.
You can book yourself into a yoga class, and unwind and relax!
Here are 7 yoga classes you can try in the La Jolla area that we think you’ll love!
Read more about San Diego: 26 things to do alone in San Diego
Visit New English Brewing
Next on our list of things to do in La Jolla, it’s visiting the amazing New English Brewing (their San Diego Brewery).
You can try a huge variety of craft beers here, in a gorgeous setting. It’s perfect for anyone who love beer or breweries!
If you’re looking for somewhere lovely to enjoy a cold brew outside, then we really recommend visiting here. Their outdoor seating is just the most gorgeous beer garden you’ve ever seen!
Visit The Taco Stand
Next on our list of things to do in La Jolla, it’s visiting The Taco Stand.
The Taco Stand is one of those La Jolla hotspots that you’ll absolutely want to check out during your time in the area.
It’s a favorite with locals and visitors, and it takes Taco Tuesday to a whole new level! If you’re into food, this is a great choice for things to do in La Jolla.
Torrey Pines Gliderport
If you’re on the hunt for fun things to do in La Jolla that’ll get your adrenaline pumping, you’ll adore Torrey Pines Gliderport.
This spot runs paragliding and hang-gliding adventures from the tops of Torrey Pines.
So, if you add this to your list of things to do in La Jolla you can expect sensational views from all angles.
Even if you’re not brave enough to take to the skies, the nearby Cliffhanger Café is a great place to visit to watch the action!
WindanSea Beach
Visiting WindanSea Beach is one of the best things to do in La Jolla if you want to live like a local.
It’s among the lesser-known beaches in the area, but it’s super aesthetic, quieter than the tourist spots, and ideal for sunbathing.
If you’re a surf fanatic, the swells here are ideal for catching Insta-worthy waves.
Whatever you choose to do here, you’re bound to agree that it’s one of the best things to do in La Jolla!
Take a surfing lesson
Have you ever learnt to surf? Because a surfing lesson is next on our list of fun things to do in La Jolla!
Whether you do a lesson with a friend, or on your own, it’s so much fun learning a new skill – especially one as exciting as surfing!
La Jolla is a perfect place to learn to surf, which is why it has made our list of fun things to do in La Jolla.
You can book your surfing lesson by clicking here!
Visit Blue Door Urban Winery
If you fancy a relaxing afternoon sampling delicious wines, then you’re going to love the Blue Door Urban Winery.
This place is a little urban oasis for wine lovers – and we think you’ll love it.
The team here are super friendly and lovely, and depending on when you visit, you might be able to watch the wine being made too!
Read more about San Diego: 38 fun things to do in San Diego at night!
Rent a paddleboard!
Next up on our list of things to do in La Jolla, it’s renting a paddleboard.
Paddleboarding is one of the quintessential things to do in La Jolla, it involves sunshine, the ocean and core strength!
You can rent your paddleboard online here.
La Jolla Market
Is there anything better than a Farmers Market?
We don’t think so, which is why we had to add La Jolla Open Aire Market to our list of fun things to do in La Jolla!
This beloved market takes place every Sunday between 9 am and 1:30 pm and it’s held at La Jolla Elementary School.
It’s best known for selling fresh produce and flowers.
But you’ll also find local crafts and delicious bakes if you’re looking for something more unique to take away.
Go shopping on Girard Ave
Next on our list of things to do in La Jolla, it’s a spot of shopping on Girard Ave.
If you love shopping, then you’ll want to add this little shopping district to your itinerary and list of things to do in La Jolla!
Ellen Browning Scripps Park
Sometimes, it’s the simplest things to do in La Jolla that make you feel the most alive.
So, why not head down to Ellen Browning Scripps Park for a picnic and a bunch of fresh air?
This wide-open space is popular with locals and tourists thanks to the stunning views over the waterfront.
It’s one of our top things to do in La Jolla for kids as they’ll be able to run around, play games, and just let off some steam.
And if you’re on the hunt for things to do in La Jolla with Fido? This place is great for dog walks and games of frisbee with the pup!
La Jolla Historical Society
If you’re a sucker for exhibitions and community history, then you need to add this place to your list of things to do in La Jolla.
The La Jolla Historical Society is a very small (but excellent!) free museum that’s tucked away inside Wisteria Cottage.
It features displays that explain how La Jolla’s art scene, culture, and architecture came to be.
It’s not one of the best things to do in La Jolla for young children, but it’s perfect for fully-grown history buffs!
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The Comedy Store
Anyone who’s looking for fun things to do in La Jolla will appreciate The Comedy Store.
This is the place to visit for comedy nights in La Jolla.
They frequently host local comedians, but you should also keep an eye out for big-name comedians that often swing by.
You’ll often be able to grab tickets for shows featuring multiple comedians.
Dine out at The Marine Room
If you’re looking for somewhere fancy to grab lunch or dinner, you need to add The Marine Room to your list of things to do in La Jolla.
This is an upscale dining spot, so it’s perfect for a special night out, or a special occasion like a birthday or date night.
The food is modern and delicious, and the views are truly something else. We really recommend it!
Take a stroll around the residential neighborhoods
Next on our list of things to do in La Jolla, it’s exploring the more residential side of the suburb.
There are some beautiful homes in La Jolla, and a lovely activity is simply strolling around the residential neighborhoods and admiring them from distance!
We can all dream after all!
La Vie Massage Spa (La Vie Day Spa)
Our next suggestion for things to do in La Jolla, it’s the La Vie Massage Spa (La Vie Day Spa).
If you’re looking for an affordable spa option, that still oozes pampering and luxury – this is a great choice!
They offer many services, and it’s a perfect choice for relaxing and taking some time off!
Visit the Sea Cove Lookout Point
Next on our list of things to do in La Jolla, it’s visiting the Sea Cove Lookout Point.
This is a great spot for soaking in the views of Sea Cove, and if you want to snap some cute photos – this is the place to head!
Hopefully this list of fun things to do in La Jolla has given you loads of ideas!
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