Meeting Some of the Locals
Closeup of Sea Anemones with Sand Covering Part of them at the La Jolla Tide Pools
This small stretch of beach in La Jolla is not a prime location for laying out on the sand, nor is it safe for swimming because of the rocky shore and changing currents.
What draws visitors to the La Jolla Tide Pools is, well, the tide pools. When the tide is low, the tide pools and tiny caves formed in the rocks are exposed, and you can spend hours looking down into this secret marine world.
Closeup of the Sea Anemones at the La Jolla Tide Pools
Sea Life Uncovered
What can you uncover when you peek around the puddles? Sea life in its own shallow ecosystem may include anemones, starfish, small crabs, hermit crabs, clams, mussels, limpets, barnacles, snails, and even the occasional sea hare. If you are lucky you might even see a small octopus amongst the rocks. Every time the tide subsides, this underwater world is exposed, and it can be both fun and educational to investigate.
Closeup View of Sea Grass at the La Jolla Tide Pools
Preserve the Sea Life
One thing to keep in mind before you head to the beach, especially if you plan a day around visiting the tidal pools, is to be respectful of the sea creatures. Touching them or disturbing their homes can harm them and upset the delicate balance of their environment. Preserve the tide pools for everyone so they can be enjoyed for years to come.
Tide Coming in at the La Jolla Tide Pools
Snorkeling & Scuba Diving
The La Jolla Tide Pools is also a hidden gem for snorkelers and divers, but only if the conditions are right. Any rough currents can make entry into the water challenging, so it may be better left to more experienced underwater explorers.
The Beautiful Grande Colonial La Jolla Hotel next to the La Jolla Tide Pools
The Grande Colonial La Jolla is the perfect place to rest your head while you explore the La Jolla Tide Pools and the surrounding beaches. It is less than a 20-minute drive to downtown San Diego where you can visit the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum or the San Diego Zoo.