Lifeguard La Jolla Cove — Attraction in San Diego

La Jolla Cove today, was picture perfect for nature photography. Therefore, I was determined to take full advantage of my La Jolla road trip.

As I made my way, across the park grass, I spoke with a photographer. She told me it was the first day in a while, the sun had come out early. I noticed thin, white streaks spread randomly across the sky. This phenomena, made the La Jolla Cove landscape even more entrancing.

Not at all far from the northwest corner of the park, you'll see the large nice new restrooms, & multi-station showers, so you can hose the sand off, following a dip in La Jolla Cove. They really did a nice job on this, completely leveling the old rr's and building humongous as well as nice, brand new ones.

I got incredible stills, & some beautiful nature videos here, & it all began, with us finding a lucky parking spot, just downhill from the Cave Store. This is where you'll enter, pay & start your tour of the cave from. For a fee, you can take a 15-20 minute self-guided walking tour, down 144 stairs, & into Sunny Jim Cave, where Bootlegger's smuggled alcohol & Opium into the cave, during Prohibition times.

First sight I saw, now talking about outside, peering over the railing, & down at the blue water, were people in single kayaks, paddling along the cliffs, which lead toward La Jolla Cove. As my wife & I made our way downhill, along a concrete walkway, we first noticed a large group of cormorants, spread out on a rocky ledge. These not very attractive birds, were gullar fluttering. This is the term used, to describe how birds shed excess heat. You can easily notice a patch of skin, under their lower bill, which you'll see rapidly vibrating. Their mouths open & close, in time with their quivering throats. You'll only notice this, on sunny & hot Southern California days.

The cormorant colony, gave way to a a massive presence of Brown Pelicans, which were busy preening, and turning their fleshy throat pouches inside out, as well. These large, fish eating birds, like to flap their wings about, as if they're gonna take off. The mature Brown Pelicans have gray bodies, white heads, & yellow bills, tipped with red color. The muted, dull brown-colored juvenile pelicans, which easily outnumber their mature counterparts, also hang out, along La Jolla Cove's steep, sloping sandstone hillside. Occasionally, a group of pelicans, would launch skyward & soar single file, along the bluff edge.

Next we watched the sea lions, while listening to them bark, pretty much constantly. They like to chase each other through the water, then hang out on flat rocks, when done. These mammals tend to congregate around the edges of the cove, playing in it's clear, protected waters.

Scuba divers & snorkelers make their way, from the bottom of the beach stairs, across a tiny bit of sand, into turquoise clear waters of La Jolla Cove. There, they practice snorkeling & diving techniques, while keeping a safe distance, from all the sea lions, who were here first.

We made our way past this really popular area, then headed uphill, on the walkway, in the general direction of San Diego. It's so pretty here, with sandstone cliffs, & oddly textured rocks, plus tons of sea-life to view, both above & beneath this calm water. You'll notice the turquoise water gives way to the briny blue, the further from shore, you look.

We watched, as wave after wave blasted off the steep & rugged cliffs. My wife noticed several small ground squirrels, feeding on ice plant spears, just off the walkway. I even got pics & video of 2 adult California Gulls, watching over their tiny, cute & very sleepy, speckled fluff-ball babies.

Also, quite amazingly, I captured a young sea lion, surfing in front of a 3 foot-tall wave. This place is so incredibly cool, with lots of birds, & tons of people. All these folks have a great love for the beach!

La Jolla Cove is a California coastal showcase, where you're treated to nice views of the scenic San Diego coastline & even more impressive blue ocean views, both up &...

Beautifully protected ecological reserve. The beach is small but one of the most popular and sought after beaches in America!

Popular with swimmers, scuba divers and snorkelers. Also see many photographers and artists nearby.

Scuba and diving gear + accessories is available to rent or purchase at multiple shops just a walk up the hill. Many of the shops have locker rentals as well.

The water may be a little cooler from currents that stroll in from the open ocean. Swells may also be large and strong at times. I don't recommend swimming alone or swimming at all if you aren't a strong swimmer. If you go alone, be sure to stay by other people in the water or ask to join them.

Always be aware of your surroundings. You are surrounded by cliffs, sharp rocks, and marine wild life. Check online and with lifeguards daily for updates and changes in conditions.

The stairs to get down to the Coves beach is steep and some people may find it difficult to navigate. Don't worry though, you can enjoy the scenery from above deck.

Parking is free but limited. When you arrive, you will smell the lovely stench seal and bird feces. You do get used to it after a while. Be sure to shower after you enjoy your visit and cover up all wounds to avoid infection.

Lifeguards are in duty every day from 0900 to dusk.

Bathrooms and showers are available for use. They are well maintained.

La Jolla sea caves are fun to explore. You'll see a lot of rental canoes in the nearby distance.

Search Groupon for rentals and specials at or around La Jolla Cove. You'll save yourself a...

La Jolla Cove is an absolute gem on the California coast! With its breathtaking ocean views, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life, it's a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of San Diego.

One of the most incredible aspects of La Jolla Cove is its stunning scenery. The rugged cliffs, picturesque shoreline, and vibrant sunsets make it a dream spot for photographers, nature lovers, and beach enthusiasts alike. Whether you're exploring the rocky tide pools or relaxing on the sandy beach, every angle offers something spectacular.

The Cove is also famous for its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The protected waters provide a safe haven for a diverse array of marine life, including bright orange Garibaldi fish, playful sea lions, and even the occasional leopard shark. It’s a paradise for underwater explorers and a fantastic place for beginners to experience snorkeling in a calm and beautiful setting.

Beyond the water, La Jolla Cove has a welcoming atmosphere with plenty of nearby restaurants, shops, and scenic walking trails. The area feels both peaceful and vibrant, offering a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Whether you're looking to take in the views, swim with sea creatures, or simply enjoy the fresh ocean breeze, this spot never disappoints.

If you're visiting San Diego, La Jolla Cove is a must-see destination. Its beauty, wildlife, and serene ambiance make it truly...