Where is La Jolla Cove,La Jolla / San Diego, California?

Written by | Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 12:28 PM ET

La Jolla Cove is located in San Diego, California, USA. It lies between La Jolla Shores and the Torrey Pines cliffs, situated along the Pacific coastline in La Jolla, and is famous for its sea lions, clear waters, and snorkeling opportunities.

La Jolla Cove Location Map,La Jolla / San Diego, California

Top Attractions Inside La Jolla Cove

  • La Jolla Cove Beach – Small picturesque beach ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
  • Sea Lion Viewing – Popular spot to observe California sea lions and seals resting on the rocks.
  • Snorkeling & Diving – Clear waters with rich marine life and underwater caves for exploration.
  • Coastal Walks & Trails – Scenic cliffside paths offering panoramic ocean views and photography spots.
  • Children’s Pool – Protected cove area where seals often gather, creating a unique wildlife experience.
  • La Jolla Tide Pools – Rocky areas exposed at low tide featuring diverse sea creatures and intertidal habitats.
  • Kayaking & Boat Tours – Guided excursions to explore sea caves and the coastline from the water.

La Jolla Cove Facts

Official NameLa Jolla Cove
LocationLa Jolla, San Diego, California, USA
Latitude & Longitude32.8503° N, 117.2720° W (approx.)
Total AreaSmall protected cove and surrounding park: ~6 acres (2.4 hectares)
EstablishedProtected as part of San Diego City Park system (date not formally recorded)
FounderCity of San Diego / California Coastal Management
Managed ByCity of San Diego Parks and Recreation / California Department of Fish & Wildlife
RegionSouthern California Coast / San Diego
Address1100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
Zip Code92037
Area Code858
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Time ZonePacific Time (PT) – UTC−8 Standard / UTC−7 Daylight Saving
Theme / ConceptMarine Conservation, Scenic Coastal Views, Snorkeling, Wildlife Observation, Beach Recreation
Sections (Areas)Main Cove Beach - La Jolla Underwater Park - Coastal Walking Trails - Tide Pools - Nearby Cliffs
Famous AttractionsSea Lions & Seals Viewing - Tide Pools - Snorkeling & Scuba Diving - Coastal Sunset Views - Kayaking Tours
Annual VisitorsApprox. 1–1.5 million
Entry Fee TypeFree Public Access (parking fees may apply)
Ticket Price RangeParking: ~$2–$15 per vehicle; Guided Tours / Snorkeling Rentals: ~$25–$75 per person
Ticket OptionsSelf-Guided Beach Access - Snorkeling & Diving Tours - Kayak Rentals - Guided Wildlife Tours
Best Time to VisitMay–October (warmer weather, calmer seas, best wildlife viewing)
Nearby AirportSan Diego International Airport (SAN) – ~15 miles (24 km)
TransportationCar access via Coast Blvd - Paid Parking Lots - Public Transit / Shuttle - Walking & Hiking Trails
Official Websitehttps://www.lajollabythesea.com

Distances from La Jolla Cove to Nearby Landmarks

  • La Jolla Shores Beach – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Children’s Pool Beach – 0.5 km (0.3 mi)
  • La Jolla Cave – 0.7 km (0.4 mi)
  • La Jolla Sea Caves – 0.8 km (0.5 mi)
  • La Jolla Tide Pools – 0.6 km (0.4 mi)
  • Mount Soledad – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Birch Aquarium – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • La Jolla Playhouse – 1.5 km (0.9 mi)
  • Ellen Browning Scripps Park – 0.4 km (0.2 mi)
  • La Valencia Hotel – 0.8 km (0.5 mi)
  • Windansea Beach – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • La Jolla Cove Park – 0.2 km (0.1 mi)
  • La Jolla Open Aire Market – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • La Jolla Country Day School – 3 km (1.9 mi)
  • University of California San Diego (UCSD) – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • La Jolla Village Shopping Center – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Scripps Pier – 2.5 km (1.6 mi)
  • La Jolla Woman’s Club – 0.7 km (0.4 mi)
  • La Jolla Shores Park – 1.2 km (0.7 mi)