Find the Best Things to Do in La Jolla
By Katie Dillon
San Diego Local Expert
About La Jolla
La Jolla is a seaside community known as “The Jewel” of San Diego. Upscale shops, fine dining, art galleries and luxury boutique hotels attract visitors from all over the world. Despite being one of the most affluent areas of the United States, it has a surprisingly down to earth vibe. UC San Diego, Scripps Institute of Oceanography, the famous Torrey Pines Golf Course, and many bio-tech companies also call La Jolla home.
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See & Do
La Jolla is a seaside community with popular attractions centered around the ocean, including the somewhat controversial seals at the Children's Pool. Should they say or should they go? Regardless, they are here now for all to enjoy. Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institute of Oceanography is dedicated to conservation and research while also being a great place to spend a day with the family. Kayak through the ocean caves or learn how to surf. There are plenty of options.
Eat
La Jolla embodies beachfront dining at it's finest. The Marine Room is right on the beach and the building is surrounded by sand. In fact, if you dine at a high tide, the water may just splash up against the windows. Admire the ocean from a bit further away at George's Ocean Terrace or any of the other restaurants on Prospect Street. Cuisine ranges from French to Japanese and it's all exceptional.
Party
La Jolla's nightlife scene is more about spending time with friends or a date. It's not late, nor is it too loud. Specialty cocktails and fine wine are on offer at restaurant bars such as George's Bar. The younger crowd may prefer Barfly, which is the only nightclub in La Jolla that has VIP bottle service and go-go dancers on offer.
Stay
La Valencia Hotel, otherwise known as "The Pink Lady," provides business travelers, singles and families with a luxurious beach-front option centrally located on Prospect Street. Walk to shopping and the city's finest restaurants. Then, return to dramatic ocean views from your room and most areas of this historic hotel.
Shop
The Village of La Jolla is lined with boutiques and a handful of name-brand stores. If you forget to pack an important item, rest assured it could be found here. One-of-a-kind accessories and art make for extraordinary souvenirs, but if a La Jolla T-shirt is all you desire, have at it.
