La Jolla isn’t just another beach town—it’s a cliffside coastal wonderland tucked into the heart of San Diego. From dramatic ocean views to secret sea caves, upscale brunch to wild sea lions, La Jolla blends laid-back luxury with wild California charm. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend recharge or a road tripper craving your next coastal escape, this 2-day La Jolla itinerary will show you the best of this iconic destination—without the overwhelm.
Day 1: Ocean Views, Sea Lions, and Sunsets
Start with Breakfast at The Cottage La Jolla
Kick off your weekend with a classic La Jolla brunch at The Cottage, a longtime local favorite that’s been serving since 1985. Try their:
- Lemon ricotta pancakes
- Chilaquiles verde
- Cold brew with house-made vanilla bean cream

Pro tip: Arrive before 9 AM to avoid the long lines.
Explore La Jolla Cove and Watch the Sea Lions
After breakfast, head over to La Jolla Cove, one of the most scenic spots in all of Southern California.
- Walk the coastal trail from the Cove to Shell Beach
- Watch sea lions lounging on the rocks
- Snorkel or scuba dive in the protected marine reserve
Parking tip: Free street parking is available but limited. Try Girard Avenue and walk down.
Hike the Coast Walk Trail
This easy, family-friendly trail starts just above the cove and winds along the cliffs with epic ocean views, passing lesser-known gems like:
- Goldfish Point
- The entrance to Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave
- Hidden lookout benches
It’s a great photo spot and a chance to escape the crowds while soaking in the salty air.
Lunch at Brockton Villa
Located right on the bluff above La Jolla Cove, Brockton Villa serves lunch with a view. Try their:
- Famous Coast Toast (yes, even for lunch!)
- Baja fish tacos
- A local beer or sangria pitcher to share
Afternoon Kayaking or Sea Cave Tour

Make your afternoon unforgettable with a kayak tour of the La Jolla Sea Caves. Book a guided excursion with La Jolla Kayak or Everyday California to explore:
- Seven sea caves, including the iconic Arch Cave
- Underwater kelp forests
- Possible sightings of leopard sharks and dolphins
Catch Sunset at Ellen Browning Scripps Park
End your day watching the sun dip into the Pacific from this sprawling oceanside park. Bring a blanket, pick up some takeout from Puesto La Jolla (tacos and churros!), and toast to the perfect day.
Day 2: Nature, Culture, and Coastal Bites
Morning Coffee & Pastries at Bird Rock Coffee Roasters
Start day two with a strong brew from Bird Rock Coffee Roasters. They roast beans in-house and have a cult following for a reason.
Grab:
- A vanilla cold brew
- Ham & gruyere croissant
- A bag of single-origin beans to bring home
Hit the Beach: Windansea or La Jolla Shores?
Choose your beach adventure:
- Windansea Beach: Rugged, dramatic, and ideal for photography and tide-pooling
- La Jolla Shores: Wide, family-friendly, and perfect for paddleboarding or surfing
Visit the Birch Aquarium at Scripps

This underrated attraction is a must-see for families, marine enthusiasts, or anyone curious about ocean conservation. Highlights include:
- Interactive tide pool touch tanks
- Giant kelp forest exhibits
- Incredible ocean views from the tide pool plaza
🎟 Tickets: ~$24 for adults
Visit Birch Aquarium
Lunch at The Taco Stand
Don’t let the line deter you—The Taco Stand is worth the hype. Known for:
- Hand-pressed tortillas
- Carne asada fries
- Grilled mahi-mahi tacos
Budget-friendly and full of flavor, this spot captures the true essence of SoCal eats.
Explore La Jolla Village: Art, Shopping, and Gelato
Stroll through Girard Avenue and Prospect Street to explore:
- Contemporary art galleries like Madison Gallery
- Locally-owned boutiques for beachwear and gifts
- A scoop of stracciatella or mango sorbet at Bobboi Natural Gelato
Sunset Hike at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Cap off your weekend with a sunset hike at Torrey Pines, located just 15 minutes north of La Jolla Village.
Best trails:
- Guy Fleming Trail: Easy, 0.7-mile loop with panoramic views
- Razor Point Trail: Moderate, cliffside views and ocean breeze
- Beach Trail: Descends to the sand—bring a flashlight if you’re hiking back at dusk
Commonly Googled Questions About La Jolla
Is La Jolla worth visiting for a weekend?
Absolutely. It offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, relaxing beaches, boutique shopping, and standout food—all in a walkable, scenic setting.
When is the best time to visit La Jolla?
- Spring and fall offer the best balance of sunshine and smaller crowds
- Summer is popular but busy
- Winter has dramatic waves and great deals on hotels
Where should I stay in La Jolla?
- Budget: La Jolla Village Lodge
- Mid-range: Hotel La Jolla (Curio by Hilton)
- Luxury: The Lodge at Torrey Pines
Related Posts from Wandering California
- Best Things to Do in La Jolla: Coastal Adventures, Seals & Sunsets
- Best Waterfront Restaurants in La Jolla: A Guide to Dining by the Sea
- The Best Places to Skimboard in San Diego
Plan Your Next Trip
Now that you’ve got your ultimate La Jolla weekend guide, it’s time to pack your bags, charge your phone, and hit the coast. Whether you’re road-tripping from LA, escaping San Diego for the weekend, or making this a stop on your California adventure—La Jolla will leave you sun-kissed, salty-haired, and fully refreshed.