53.3
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4:00 AM
53.3 °F
7:00 AM
55.0 °F
10:00 AM
61.4 °F
1:00 PM
62.0 °F
4:00 PM
61.3 °F
7:00 PM
61.4 °F
10:00 PM
60.8 °F
1:00 AM
61.0 °F
4:00 AM
61.6 °F
7:00 AM
59.6 °F
10:00 AM
61.5 °F
1:00 PM
62.2 °F
4:00 PM
60.8 °F
7:00 PM
60.2 °F
10:00 PM
59.8 °F
1:00 AM
59.5 °F
4:00 AM
59.4 °F
7:00 AM
59.9 °F
10:00 AM
63.1 °F
1:00 PM
64.2 °F
4:00 PM
62.8 °F
7:00 PM
61.9 °F
10:00 PM
61.5 °F
1:00 AM
61.1 °F
4:00 AM
60.7 °F
7:00 AM
60.9 °F
10:00 AM
64.7 °F
1:00 PM
64.7 °F
4:00 PM
63.1 °F
7:00 PM
62.5 °F
10:00 PM
62.1 °F
1:00 AM
61.4 °F
4:00 AM
61.4 °F
7:00 AM
61.7 °F
10:00 AM
62.0 °F
1:00 PM
62.1 °F
4:00 PM
61.2 °F
7:00 PM
59.9 °F
10:00 PM
59.6 °F
1:00 AM
59.4 °F
Overview
Located in San Diego in Southern California, La Jolla Caves Beach is a rocky beach nestled between La Jolla Cove and La Jolla Shores Beach. The main draw of this beach is the collection of sea caves to the north, which have immense historical significance − they are over 75 million years old and were once used for smuggling by pirates in the 1800s.
Amenities
La Jolla Caves Beach doesn’t have basic amenities like restrooms, showers, and lifeguards, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly.
Activities
The calm and clear waters here are great for kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Since there isn’t much sand here, it’s best suited for water sports. The La Jolla Kayak Tour is a popular option that starts at $39 per person. On this tour, visitors meet at La Jolla Shores Beach, tour all seven of the La Jolla Caves, and explore the La Jolla Ecological Reserve. The abundant marine life at the La Jolla Ecological Reserve also makes it a popular destination for snorkelers and scuba divers. If you want to stay on shore, you can still visit the La Jolla Caves. The largest cave, also known as the Sunny Jim Sea Cave, is located at La Jolla Cove which is only a 10-minute drive from La Jolla Shores Beach. It is accessible through a tunnel that starts in The Cave Store and takes visitors to a viewing platform inside the cave. The self-guided tour costs $25 for a group of 6 people and takes about 20 minutes to complete. Viewing slots fill up quickly during the high season, so be sure to buy your tickets ahead of time.
Parking
The beach is only accessible by foot during low tide − the most popular way to get there is by parking in the free lot at La Jolla Shores Beach and kayaking over.
Attractions
The calm and clear waters here are great for kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Since there isn’t much sand here, it’s best suited for water sports. The La Jolla Kayak Tour is a popular option that starts at $39 per person. On this tour, visitors meet at La Jolla Shores Beach, tour all seven of the La Jolla Caves, and explore the La Jolla Ecological Reserve. The abundant marine life at the La Jolla Ecological Reserve also makes it a popular destination for snorkelers and scuba divers. If you want to stay on shore, you can still visit the La Jolla Caves. The largest cave, also known as the Sunny Jim Sea Cave, is located at La Jolla Cove which is only a 10-minute drive from La Jolla Shores Beach. It is accessible through a tunnel that starts in The Cave Store and takes visitors to a viewing platform inside the cave. The self-guided tour costs $25 for a group of 6 people and takes about 20 minutes to complete. Viewing slots fill up quickly during the high season, so be sure to buy your tickets ahead of time.
Restaurants
If you get hungry, take a short 5-minute walk from La Jolla Shores Beach to the Cheese Shop for a delicious sandwich to refuel after your cave tour. You’ll also find many restaurants within a 10-minute walk from the beach. Galaxy Taco offers California-inspired Mexican food in an alfresco setting with a full tequila bar. If you’re looking for fine dining, we like The Marine Room for fresh seafood and gorgeous views of the water.
Hotels
If you’re looking for a place to stay, there are many nearby options. The La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club offers resort-style accommodations with access to a private section of La Jolla Shores Beach. You can also stay at Hotel La Jolla, a rare high-rise hotel in the area that offers sweeping views of the shoreline. Another option is La Jolla Shores Hotel, a California casual hotel just steps from the sand.
Sunrise - Sunset
Amenities
Dogs
Activities
Hiking
Scuba Diving
Snorkeling
Cave
Rentals
Bikes
Kayaking Canoeing
Food
Access
Car Access
Foot Access
Parking - Street
Public Bus Stop
Features
Top Traveler Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!
Does La Jolla Caves Beach have parking? If so, is it free or paid?
No, this Beach does not have dedicated parking but has street parking near the entrance.
Does La Jolla Caves Beach have lifeguards?
No, this Beach does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach - please be careful when swimming on this beach.
Is La Jolla Caves Beach a family-friendly beach?
No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.
Is La Jolla Caves Beach good for swimming?
Yes, this Beach boasts excellent swimming conditions, attracting swimmers of all skill levels with its gentle waves and clear waters.
Does La Jolla Caves Beach have restrooms?
No, this Beach does not have restrooms on or near the beach.
Is La Jolla Caves Beach a nude beach?
No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.
Is there food near La Jolla Caves Beach?
No, this Beach does not have nearby food options - please plan your beach day accordingly.
What are the activities at La Jolla Caves Beach?
Yes, this Beach is renowned for its vibrant beach scene, offering various activities for everyone to enjoy Hiking, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling.
Does La Jolla Caves Beach have accommodations for people with disabilities?
No, this Beach does not have accommodations for people with disabilities.
Is La Jolla Caves Beach a dog-friendly beach?
Yes, bring your dog with you to this Beach!
Is La Jolla Caves Beach good for surfing?
No, this Beach is not generally considered to be good for surfing.
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