La Jolla Shores Beach vs La Jolla Cove

Whether you prefer a leisurely trip to a San Diego beach or a more active one, fun awaits at these beaches.

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Beachgoers Enjoying the Beach at La Jolla Cove

Stay Busy or Relax at La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove isn’t a surfing spot, but there’s still plenty to do. The beach gets a lot of sun, and its calm waves are perfect for swimming.

The most popular activity here is snorkeling. The water is clear and easy to see through, and the natural protection against waves formed by the cove ensures the tides never get too rough or choppy.

Scuba diving is similarly popular, though the steep steps leading to the beach mean you’ll have to work a little harder to get all your gear down. It’s worth it, though, as seeing the famously diverse marine life of La Jolla with your own eyes is an unforgettable experience.

Looking South at La Jolla Shores

Water Sports and Other Activities at La Jolla Shores

La Jolla Shores is a picturesque beach, with lots of space to set up an umbrella and some beach towels, even when it’s crowded. It’s a large, open beach, and the water is ideal for swimming.

If you’re looking to scuba dive, there’s a cove just off the beach that isn’t far from the La Jolla Underwater Park, a reef that’s a habitat for hundreds of species of fish and other marine animals.

While it may not be one of the top spots to surf in San Diego, when conditions are right, you can still catch some beginner-friendly waves at La Jolla Shores. This pairs perfectly with La Jolla surfing lessons, though you can also walk a little to the north to hit Scripps Beach, which has more consistent surfing conditions.

La Jolla Shores Boardwalk and Main Lifeguard Tower

Both beaches are generally laid-back. Since they’re some of San Diego’s most popular beaches, they tend to have a more touristy atmosphere, providing the classic beach experience rather than a more specialized or secluded atmosphere.

They can get busy, especially after Memorial Day and throughout the summer. Peak times are typically from mid-morning to the afternoon, so visit early if you want to claim a prime spot.

Multiple Taxis Waiting in Line to Pickup Passengers at the San Diego Airport

Whether you drive, take a local rideshare or take the bus, getting to the beach should be just as relaxing as the rest of your vacation.

Parking

It’s usually easiest to find parking at La Jolla Shores, as the lot there is large enough to accommodate all but the biggest crowds. The lot is free.

You might have some more trouble finding parking when visiting La Jolla Cove. The lot is smaller, and the nearest free street spaces fill up fast. Consider using San Diego’s public transit to get to and from the beach.

Stairs Coming Down to the La Jolla Cove

Beach Accessibility

Access to La Jolla Shores is just a short walk from the parking lot. At La Jolla Cove, however, you’ll need to walk down a set of stairs to reach the beach.

It only usually takes me a few minutes, but if you’re walking with young kids or older family members, know that the steps can be a little slippery with sand and sea water.

Ellen Browning Park next to La Jolla Cove

Facilities at Each Beach

La Jolla Shores and La Jolla Cove both have restrooms and showers available.

At La Jolla Cove, there are picnic benches at the nearby Ellen Browning Scripps Park. La Jolla Shores doesn’t have benches, but the grassy area just before the beach is a popular spot for picnics.

Be sure to pack a lunch, as you’ll have to leave the beach to get food otherwise.

While these beaches are generally safe, there are still some rules in place to protect both beachgoers and the environment.

Here are some rules to keep in mind when visiting any of the La Jolla beaches. With more environmental protections in place, La Jolla Cove has a few more regulations, though it’s important to follow all posted signage at both beaches.

Main Lifeguard Station at La Jolla Shores

Wave Safety

La Jolla Shores generally has manageable tides, but during colder months, the waves can be a bit larger and more powerful. Pay attention to any limitations set by lifeguards.

Since La Jolla Cove is shielded from the waves, strong currents are a rarity. The beach is typically safe for families and other inexperienced swimmers year-round.

Low Tide at La Jolla Shores

Activities to Avoid at Either Beach

To preserve its waters for snorkeling and swimming, La Jolla Cove does not allow hard boards at the beach. This means no surfing, nor are visitors allowed to boogie board, paddleboard, or go kayaking.

Drinking is not allowed on either beach, and all trash must be properly disposed of, or you could be fined.

Pet Policies

Though neither is officially considered a dog beach, dogs are allowed on both beaches during the early mornings and in the evenings. They must be leashed, and aren’t allowed during peak hours from 9:00 am-4:00 pm.

Relaxing on the Beach at La Jolla Shores

Seasonal Considerations

Both La Jolla Shores and La Jolla Cove are open year-round. There are lifeguards throughout the year as well.

La Jolla Cove and the Path Above the Beach

When to Visit

Crowds at both beaches are thinner in the fall and spring, which are still warm enough for a beach visit in San Diego.

There are usually huge crowds on and around Memorial Day weekend, so if that doesn’t sound like your style, I say plan your trip at a slightly different time or get there as early as possible.

Pool at La Valencia Hotel

Come Prepared

It may seem obvious, but you’ll want to come prepared with plenty of water, a towel and sun protection such as sunscreen, a hat and perhaps an umbrella. The sun can get very hot and you won’t want to have to leave once you arrive.