La Jolla Neighborhood Guide — San Diego
An upscale coastal community known for stunning coves, world-class dining, boutique shopping, and La Jolla Shores beach.
At a Glance
39,284
Population
$141,822
Median Income
44
Median Age
$2,632/mo
Median Rent
Source: 2019-2023 ACS 5-Year Estimates
Parks & Recreation
Scripps Park
Waterfront Park
Grassy bluff overlooking La Jolla Cove. Popular for weddings, picnics, and watching sea lions.
Ellen Browning Scripps Park
Waterfront Park
Scenic park above La Jolla Cove with panoramic ocean views and access to the cove.
La Jolla Recreation Center
Recreation Center
Community center with tennis courts, playground, and classes.
Beaches
La Jolla Cove Lifeguard
Iconic small beach in a protected marine reserve. Crystal-clear water, sea caves, and abundant marine life.
La Jolla Shores Lifeguard
Wide, gentle sandy beach ideal for families, beginner surfers, and kayaking. Launches for sea cave tours.
Windansea Beach
World-class surf break with a famous palm-thatched surf shack. Powerful waves for experienced surfers.
Black's Beach
Secluded clothing-optional beach below the Torrey Pines cliffs. Access via steep trail. Known for excellent surf.
Getting Around
Bus Routes
- Route 30 (La Jolla to Downtown)
- Route 101 (La Jolla to Oceanside)
Trolley Access
UTC Transit Station (3 miles)
Biking
Coastal bike routes, La Jolla Scenic Drive
Parking
Very limited near the village and cove. Metered street parking and small lots. Expect to walk.
- • Try the free lot on Coast Blvd south of the cove
- • Prospect Street has metered parking
- • Arrive before 10am on weekends to find cove parking
Landmarks & Attractions
La Jolla Cove
One of the most photographed spots in San Diego. Protected marine reserve with sea lions and crystal-clear water.
Torrey Pines State Reserve
1,750-acre state park with hiking trails, rare Torrey pine trees, and stunning cliff-top ocean views.
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Public aquarium run by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego.
Prospect Street
La Jolla's main shopping and dining street with galleries, boutiques, and ocean-view restaurants.
Top Businesses in La Jolla
Bed & Breakfasts (8)
View all →La Valencia Hotel
La Valencia Hotel is a bed and breakfasts located in La Jolla, San Diego.
Boutique Clothing Stores (7)
View all →Totem Boutique
Totem Boutique is a boutique clothing stores located in La Jolla, San Diego.
Lissilaa Boutique
Lissilaa Boutique is a boutique clothing stores located in La Jolla, San Diego.
Antique & Vintage Shops (7)
View all →Menehune Surf School La Jolla Shores
Menehune Surf School La Jolla Shores is a antique & vintage located in La Jolla, San Diego.
Surf Education Academy
Surf Education Academy is a antique & vintage located in La Jolla, San Diego.
Souvenir Shops (5)
View all →Sea Hive La Jolla
Sea Hive La Jolla is a souvenir shops located in La Jolla, San Diego.
La Jolla Outpost: Gifts Apparel and Snorkels
La Jolla Outpost: Gifts Apparel and Snorkels is a souvenir shops located in La Jolla, San Diego.
Restaurants (4)
View all →Blue Ocean / Harumama
Blue Ocean / Harumama is a restaurant located in La Jolla, San Diego.
The Marine Room
The Marine Room is a restaurant located in La Jolla, San Diego.
George's at the Cove
George's at the Cove is a restaurant located in La Jolla, San Diego.
Water Sports & Rentals (2)
View all →La Jolla Caves Snorkel & Paddleboard Tours and Rentals
La Jolla Caves Snorkel & Paddleboard Tours and Rentals is a water sports located in La Jolla, San Diego.
Everyday California
Everyday California is a water sports located in La Jolla, San Diego.
Housing
$2,632
Median Rent/mo
$1,750,000
Median Home Value
46.7%
Owner-Occupied
19,628
Housing Units