La Jolla Sea Caves Hiking Trail
La Jolla Hiking Trail
Best San Diego Hiking Trail: Visiting La Jolla or the “jewel city” will add a little sparkle to your hiking life! The town features unique coastal areas to explore, including a famous cave accessible by an underground tunnel through The Cave Store & a cove featuring dozens of seals & sea lions.
Starting at the Ellen Browning Scripps Park, hikers can walk to the La Jolla Cove for the perfect coastal photo outing with the seals & sea lions. Continuing around the corner, hikers can access the famous La Jolla Cove through The Cave Store’s entrance. There is a small entrance fee to see the cave, but the unique experience is worth it. After the cave, continue onwards along the coastal trail to enjoy the panoramic views of The Pacific Ocean and LA Jolla’s cliffs.
Overall, this San Diego Hiking trail is relatively short and easy, however the La Jolla’s charm makes it a fun place to explore. If you visit during the summer months, the team recommends visiting early to make parking easier. After your adventure, check out the area’s local coffee shops & restuarants. If you want to stay overnight, Go Hike It recommends the La Jolla Cove Hotel & Suites, which is overlooks the town’s beautiful cove.
Estimated Time: 1 hour
Total Distance: 1-2 miles (round-trip)
Trail Pictures
Map & Directions
Total Distance (miles)
The La Jolla Sea Caves are within the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park, a marine refuge area.
Total Estimated Time (hour)
La Jolla's nickname "The Jewel City" is derived from the Spanish word "la joya," which means "the jewel."
La Jolla Sea Caves Park Photo Gallery
(click on image to rotate through image/s)
When to Go
Year-Round: La Jolla is a fun place to explore year-round. During the summer months, the town can be a very popular daily or overnight tourist destination and parking can be challenging. The Go Hike It team recommends going early in the AM, if you plan on exploring LA Jolla during the summer months. If you plan on visiting during the winter months, the weather may still be very pleasant with less overall crowds.
Dog Friendly
Yes, dogs on leashes are permitted in the Ellen Scripps Park. Dogs are not permitted within the Sea Caves.
La Jolla Sea Caves Trail Map
Point La Jolla Trail Directions
Address for GPS:1250 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
Why We Liked It
The Jewel City offers several hidden gems to explore. From the famous La Jolla cove featuring sea lions & seals to the La Jolla cave that’s accessible via The Cave Store, the area is fun place to explore for families, couples or hikers seeking a casual experience. If you want to enjoy another hike after your adventure, the team recommends visiting Torrey Pines or Iron Mountain.
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