La Jolla Cove: San Diego's Coastal Wonderland (Free & Magical!)

📍 Location: 1100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037 Why It's a Must-Visit This pocket-sized paradise blends turquoise waters, playful seals, and dramatic cliffs—all with zero admission fee. National Geographic calls it "California's most enchanting cove." Top Experiences 🏖️ 1. La Jolla Cove Beach Snorkeling heaven in protected marine waters (spot garibaldi fish!) Kayak tours through sea caves ($50/person) 🦭 2. Children's Pool 50+ harbor seals sunbathing on sand (view from seawall) Please obey: 10ft distance rule (they bite!) 🌊 3. Tide Pools Best at -1.0ft tide (check surfline.com) Find octopuses in anemone gardens 🌅 4. Coastal Walk Trail 1-mile cliffside path with whale-spotting benches (Dec-Apr) Secret spot: "Sunny Jim's Cave" access via The Cave Store ($10) Smart Visiting Tips 🚗 Parking Hacks: Free 3hr spots on Fern Glen before 9AM $20/day at La Jolla Cove Hotel lot 📸 Golden Hours: Sunrise: Seals feeding in pink light Sunset: Torrey Pines glow orange #LaJollaCove #SanDiego #FreeTravel #PacificCoast #HiddenGems