La Jolla Cove, San Diego

Famous for its tide pools and sea lions, La Jolla Cove features a tiny beach surrounded by sandstone cliffs. Part of a protected reserve known for its rich marine life, this stretch of coastline counts among one of the most photographed sites in San Diego. You can swim, snorkel, or scuba dive here, taking advantage of the calm waters that provide an ecologically safe home for orange Garibaldi fish and several species of marine invertebrates. In order to protect all animals inside this area, lifeguards strictly enforce the rules forbidding surfboards, kayaks, boogie boards, and inflatable mattresses within the cove. Plan your La Jolla Cove visit and explore what else you can see and do in San Diego using our San Diego trip planner.