La Jolla is a community within the city of San Diego, and some think it the most desirable place to dwell and visit. La Jolla is just north of San Diego's beaches Mission Beach, Pacific Beach and Ocean Beach, yet it sometimes feels worlds away, with its very own beaches offering distinct characteristics that make them geographically unique.
La Jolla's Torrey Pines State Beach, Golf Course, and hotels next to the beach all provide great vacations for those seeking a slower pace north of San Diego. Del Mar with the San Diego County Fair and Racetrack is close by so you can stay in La Jolla and access the fairgrounds for these events or hundreds of other happenings throughout the year.
An Aquarium is one of the highlights for parents with children, but the beaches are the biggest draw.
Other things to do and see include Gliderport for launch of hang-gliding rides, and the University of California, San Diego with its unique, must-see Geisel Library. Surfing, swimming, jogging, sunbathing, golfing, bicycling, and many outdoor activities are available to tourists during their beach vacations.
While La Jolla has tended toward a reputation of exclusivity, the city actually is quite attractive and user friendly with many visitors enjoying things to see and do all year long. Among them are arts emphasis with theatre arts and art galleries, educational focus with Scripps research institution and ocean stewardship.
One of the hot button items for decades has been the seals and sea lion population taking residence on the popular Mother's beach where kids once frolicked freely in the gentle inlet waters. A tug of war between those who seek to reserve the area for sea mammal and those who think humans should have first claim erupts annually with new guidelines to regulate the use of beach space. Near this beach is one of our favorite vantage points for watching. A causeway into the water includes railings, and allows you to walk out a short distance to observe the shore from a more intimate perspective.
What do visitors like most about La Jolla?
They like its hotels, golf course, beaches, parks, restaurants and shops. If you have never visited, add La Jolla to your "must-see" San Diego vacation.