Scripps

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Scripps is just south of Blacks Beach with much easier access. This beach is right in front of Scripps Institution of Oceanography and on both sides of the Scripps Pier. There is beach access via a staircase at the end of Discovery Way.
Scripps Beach is a quiet but enjoyable beach in La Jolla. If you want to catch some waves, swim in the ocean or relax in the sun, check Scripps out.
Todd Sarouhan
Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you make purchases through them, I may be compensated at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
Why you'll love this beach
Why you'll love this beach
Spend a Peaceful Day in the Sun with a View of the Pier at La Jolla's Scripps Beach
Scripps
Overview
Things to Do
Save on Gear
Popular Activities
Get There & Parking
Featured Activity
Know Before You Go
Stay Nearby
Similar Beaches

Highlights

Things to Do
Tips
How to get there
Parking
Things to Do
Tips
How to get there
Parking

Overview

Scripps La Jolla at Low TideLooking at Scripps Pier from the North

In La Jolla, a concrete pier juts out into the ocean, flanked by a stretch of sand on either side. Scripps Beach is a quiet and attractive section of shoreline adjacent to one of the most interesting underwater areas in the county.

The beach is divided into a north and south section by the pier. Both North Scripps & South Scripps are favorites for surfers. The swimmers, kayakers and other ocean-goers normally head to the south side.

The pier, officially known as Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier, is owned by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, part of the University of California at San Diego.

Much of the beach and coastal area is also owned and/or operated by the university also. It is open to the public, but there are some special rules about conservation.

If you want to find a more peaceful beach in La Jolla, Scripps beach is a top choice. It is also a must-visit for avid surfers.

Things to Do

Paddle Boarding
Paddle Boarding
Sunbathing
Sunbathing
Surfing
Surfing
Swimming
Swimming
Tide Pooling
Tide Pooling

Top Reasons to Visit Scripps Beach

Scripps Beach is less frequented than some other beaches in the area such as La Jolla Shores, just to the south of Scripps. However, that does not mean that there are fewer reasons to check it out.

Surfing

Scripps surf break is well known regionally for its solid surf. However, it doesn’t have the international prestige of Blacks Beach just to the north. For most visitors, this is a good thing because it can be a little quieter at Scripps.

Scripps is a beach break and thus the waves can break both left and right. The bottom is sandy, creating a smooth surfing experience. Expect a variety of wavelengths.

If you are an inexperienced surfer, Scripps Beach will be less challenging than some of the other surf spots in the area. The designated surfing area is North Scripps (north of the pier).

Local Tips
Did you know?
Scripps beach is right in front of the famous Scripps Institution of Oceanography. It is one of the oldest and largest centers for ocean and Earth science research in the world.

Quiet Sunning and Swimming

Despite being very easy to access, Scripps Beach doesn’t draw huge crowds. That means that if you want to enjoy yourself relaxing on the sand or swimming in the water, you can do so without having to fight for a spot, even on busier days.

The sand and sea are of very similar quality to the more popular La Jolla Shores. This is a great alternative if you want to skip the busier beach which is walking distance to the south.

Kayaking

Scripps Beach south of the pier is a popular area for kayaking. It can be a little bumpy with the surf. However, if you have the right equipment, this is a fun area to paddle around.

You’ll need to launch from the sand. So, be prepared to fight your way out initially.

Scuba Diving

South-West of Scripps Beach is the San Diego – La Jolla Underwater Park. This protected area has 6,000 acres of ocean bottom and tidelands.

If you want to go scuba diving in San Diego, this is the place to go. There are numerous habitats to explore. The fact that the pier on the beach is owned by the University of California San Diego’s oceanography school should tell you something about the quality of diving in the area.

Stay Nearby at the elegant Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa

Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa located only 2 miles away offers a home away from home. Relax in your peaceful room, take a dip in the heated saltwater pool, unwind in your private cabana, or play lawn games with your friends and family.

Go Surfing with Go Pass!

La Jolla - Surf Board Rental
La Jolla - Surf Board Rental
La Jolla is home to some of the world's best beaches for surfing, and with your Go Pass, you can enjoy this experience. Whether you are a rookie or a pro, get a full day Surf Board rental. The waters are perfect for those learning.
Buy Now
Local Tips
What activities does the Go City San Diego pass include?

There’s a variety of activities included with the Go City San Diego pass such as: The San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, LEGOLAND, SeaWorld, Hiking Tours, Whale Watching, Museum Tours, Speed Boat Adventures & more!

For the most popular attractions and water-sport rentals as well as the biggest discounts, consider the All-Inclusive Pass.

Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to save an extra 5%!

Popular Activities

San Diego Harbor Cruise
San Diego Harbor Cruise
$36 per person
Buy Now
The World Famous San Diego Zoo
The World Famous San Diego Zoo
Discounts Available
Learn More
Drive Your Own Speed Boat Tour
Drive Your Own Speed Boat Tour
$80 per person
Buy Now

How to Get There & Parking

Free Parking
Free Parking
Neighborhood Parking
Neighborhood Parking
Street Parking
Street Parking

Getting to Scripps

To get to Scripps Beach from the south, exit I-5 at La Jolla Parkway. Turn on La Jolla Shores Drive. Follow this until you reach the buildings of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography.

If approaching from the north, exit the interstate on Torrey Pines Road. Then, turn onto La Jolla Shores Drive and head south until you reach the Scripps Institution.

Parking at Scripps

There are parking lots owned by the university in the area. These aren’t public, but if you are visiting a student or staff member, they are convenient.

On Kennel Way, there is a public, paid parking lot. You may also be able to find street parking, although this is limited.

Featured Activity

La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaking
Guided La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour
Explore the famous protected sea caves of La Jolla on this guided 90-minute kayak tour. Keep an eye out for sea lions, seals, sea turtles and a variety of fish as you paddle your own kayak through the sea caves!
Buy Now

Know Before You Go & Tips

Lifeguards
Lifeguards
No Alcohol
No Alcohol
No Camping
No Camping
No Glass Containers
No Glass Containers
No Motorized Vehicles
No Motorized Vehicles
No Smoking
No Smoking
Outdoor Showers
Outdoor Showers
Pier
Pier
Public Transportation
Public Transportation
Trash Cans Available
Trash Cans Available

Tips to Know Before You Go

Pier Isn’t Open to the Public

Despite how enticing it looks, the pier is sadly not open to the public. Nonetheless, it adds a nice, dramatic element to the view. Scripps Pier is a research pier used by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography.

Beautiful Views

Scripps Beach is a great place to enjoy the sunset or just to look out on the majesty of the Pacific Ocean.

Lifeguard

There is some lifeguard coverage in the area. However, it is not as thoroughly patrolled as the neighboring La Jolla Shores.

Coastal Reserve

The area is a coastal reserve. This attracts some interesting fauna and marine life to the area. It also means you should be extra careful about how you affect the local nature.

Scripps
is Known For:
Surfing
Surfing
Know This:
Lifeguards
Lifeguards
Pier
Pier
Tide Pools
Tide Pools
Trash Cans Available
Trash Cans Available
This Month's Forecast
63°F / 78°F
Sunny in October
Nov
56°F / 73°F
Sunny in November
Dec
51°F / 68°F
Sunny in December
Jan
51°F / 67°F
Sunny in January

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