Sometimes called The Jewel of Southern California, La Jolla is an exquisite combination of soft-sand beaches, jagged cliffs, sunshine, cultural activities, boutique-lined streets, hotels, art galleries, and more.
Just 15 minutes from downtown San Diego, La Jolla, one of the most prosperous communities in the United States, combines the atmosphere of a southern European resort community with the fun of southern California.
With its seven miles of shoreline, La Jolla draws tourists from around the world and blends trendiness with traditional class. From the waves crashing along the shoreline to the high-rise building in the business district, expect everything in this seaside city to be first class.
The birch aquarium
Stop at the Birch Aquarium, which has been inspiring visitors with the wonders of the ocean for more than a century. You’ll enter the world of sharks, living coral reefs, seahorses and more at the Birch Aquarium, where you’ll interact with the exhibits through hands-on exhibits and multimedia presentations.
La Jolla Restaurants
Combine glorious Pacific Ocean views and world-renowned chefs and you’ve got restaurants made in heaven.
And there are many wonderful La Jolla restaurants to choose from. Here are some of them:
For fine dining, you may want to eat at Trattoria Acqua or Georges on the cove. If you’re in the mood for sushi, try Sushi on the Rock. For steaks, you can’t go wrong at Donovan’s of La Jolla. And for French cuisine Tapenade is the place to be on Fay Avenue.
the coast
La Jolla’s most memorable region is the area along the Pacific coast, offering some of the most stunning coastlines in Southern California for your viewing pleasure.
Take the scenic drive along North Torrey Pines Road and be in awe of views of caves, cliffs, beaches, and remarkable sunsets. Stop along the route and browse or shop at any of the fine art galleries, souvenir shops, jewelry stores, or fashion boutiques along the route.
After shopping, complete this memorable experience with dinner overlooking the Pacific Ocean at one of the many excellent La Jolla restaurants along the way.
For an even more spectacular view, head over to Torrey Pines Gliderport and learn to fly, and soar above this beautiful spot.
The village
The downtown district, though small, is packed with trendy establishments that attract wealthy visitors from around the world. Although Prospect Drive is known as “Rodeo Drive in San Diego”, Girard Avenue is the main street.
Here you will find boutiques, art galleries, salons, cafes, restaurants, shops and hotels. To get a taste of what’s happening in the art world today, you can head to the Museum of Contemporary Art, which is housed in the iconic Ellen Browning Scripps home. , built in 1916.
And for a unique reading experience, stop by the Athanaeum Music and Arts Library, a 100-year-old library that has an incredible selection of music and art volumes.
the business district
Although La Jolla is primarily known for its incredible coastline, the city’s business district is anything but modest, to say the least. You’ll find modern shopping malls, career centers, and residences along with the world-renowned Scripps Memorial Hospital & Medical Research Center. La Jolla professionals tend to be in finance, law, or technology.
Any way you look at it, from its Mediterranean-style homes to the Birch Aquarium, trendy shops, and many tempting restaurants in La Jolla, you’ll want to make this gem part of your vacation itinerary when you’re in Southern California.