La Jolla

La Jolla, a serene village along the Pacific Ocean, is one of the most beautiful locations in the county and a favorite vacation spot for Southern California residents. With a long storied history, La Jolla boasts exquisite ocean views and a variety of activities for all ages. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque coastline, bike along miles of bike trails, watch surfers catch waves or simply relax on a beach towel while watching the sunset.
When is your trip?

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Categories

Restaurants
Attractions
Cafes

La Jolla on your mind?

Build, organize, and map out your best trip yet.
Need a place to stay?
When

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

When

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Top searches

Slide 1 of 14
Featured guides

Multi-city stops

Slide 1 of 30

Top places to visit

1La Jolla Cove

4.8
(3249)
4.5
(13764)
Mentioned on 
Beach
Outdoor Activities
Parks
La Jolla Cove is a small beach located in La Jolla, California. It is often visited by divers and sunbathing enthusiasts. The cove features permanent lifeguard stations and picnic tables, as well as showers for visitors. There are also sea lions who reside near the beach.
Beautiful. A bucket list place to visit
Ryan — Google review
Beautiful place to walk along the coast or along on the coastal trail. Peaceful, beautiful place to relax, go for a swim, see the sea lions, pelicans, cormorants, listen to the ocean and see artists setup booths.
Donna McCray — Google review
An amazing spot to catch a whole number of birds, sea lions, seals, dolphins and if lucky, whales too. There's a nice lawn to have picnics and play around. There's a bunch of people going snorkeling in the coves as well. A must see spot on your visit to San Diego.
Chetan Suresh — Google review
A great place to watch seals, sea lions and sunset. Weekends are a bit crowded with tourists. You get to watch the seals pretty close up. There are also stalls selling merchandise and more.
Senji Laxme R Raghunath — Google review
Sat for hours and watched the sea lions. Remember to give them space, as they are wild animals and should stay that way. It was such a wonderful wind down time and entertaining.
Ashley Byars — Google review
Really beautiful area . There’s a lot to do, including riding the bird scooters, walking along the trails, swimming in the water (with the sea lions, beware) the cave store which sometimes has an extremely long line. Parking is tricky and it took us a while to find a spot.
L — Google review
Superb place for a family fun. Kids will enjoy the most. Watch Sea lions and birds. Parking could be tricky one. There is plenty of grass fields for kids to play in addition to the beach. Many people are going too close to the sea lions and disturbing them. It sad to see such acts. Despite many announcements people still get excited and do this to take pictures and videos. We watched sea lions bite a girl. So be careful you might get hurt. Restrooms and showers are there. Nice place to relax.
Nk S — Google review
Very beautiful and the seals&sea lions are sooo adorable!!
XP Liu — Google review
La Jolla Cove is an absolutely gorgeous area. The snorkeling is fantastic, can get a bit crowded near the the shore but plenty of room for all once you’re in the water. The views from above the shoreline are absolutely incredible. Great opportunity to get up close with sea lions and seals in their natural habitat. The views are absolutely stunning. If you’re in the area I highly recommend you cost. The city itself is really cool too, small town feel with a bunch of shops and restaurants.
Dustin Weinbrecht — Google review
One of the most beautiful beaches in California! It was a nice walk along the beach seeing the different animals. Even saw a bunny. The showers and bathrooms were clean and well kept. Some local vendors to buy your memorabilia. So peaceful. So relaxing. I didn’t want to leave! I’m so grateful for San Diego ❤️
ktzpawz — Google review
Loving the view of the sea plus the Seals. Beautiful getaway with family since we just pick them up in LAX airport. Wildflowers, beautiful park and more.
Team Roe & Family stories — Google review
La Jolla Cove in California is a breathtaking coastal destination perfect for families. Watch playful seals and sea lions frolic in the clear waters while enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the pristine sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs. It's a free and unforgettable experience that will create cherished memories for all. Don't miss out on this nature-filled wonderland!
Gina Ferri — Google review
Wow! Just Wow!! Next time I will bring my snorkel and swim suit. You can literally swim out with the Sea Lions. However, walking through the cave and watching all the little sea lions play was amazing!! We'll be back 😎
Teri Morrissey — Google review
Nice walk by the coast, unfortunately at the time we were here it was cloudy and a bit cold, but we took a walk anyway. We could see the sea lions and seals in the “wild” which was pretty unforgettable experience although the smell was terrible we enjoyed this place with those beautiful animals
Ondřej Lepš — Google review
Such a lovely 🥰 place to visit! Great sunset ☀️! Awesome to watch the sea lions 🦭 play around! Highly recommend checking out this spot!
Don Natch — Google review
I loved coming here when I went to visit. You have those breath taking ocean views. You have seals and sea lions swimming and bathing on the beach. It’s close to La Jolla Village, where you’ll find some shops and restaurants. At the beach, you can relax, tan, and swim. For parking, I recommend coming in the morning and maybe early afternoon. Later than that, then it can be difficult to find parking. We came in the afternoon so we were thankful someone was leaving on the street, it was a nice walk to the cove. It wasn’t very crowded when we went.
Nicholas P — Google review
Gorgeous views of the sunset. It was really cloudy tonight but still beautiful. Other evenings when there are no clouds, the sunset is amazing. You can see tons of seals and birds roosting in this area also.
Jenny Reviewer — Google review
The place is nice but the smell is disgusting like in a SeaFarm 🦭🦭🦭🦭🦭
L?a Pilet — Google review
There are too many tourists, but it is worth visiting. This is the gathering place for pelicans, seabirds, sea lions and seals. Observe these lovely animals at close range. I thank nature for giving us these gentle animals. Being with them, I feel It's peaceful and beautiful.
Weiqin — Google review
One of the most beautiful places! The wildlife makes it so much better as well, sea lions, seals, pelicans, squirrels, if you are lucky dolphins!
Lale Kumral — Google review
A beautiful park and walkway right along the Pacific Ocean. You can go to a couple coves where you can get up close to Seals and Sea Lions along with their pups! People snorkel in the children’s cove and you can get splashed walking along one of the lower sidewalks. Lots of vendors along the sidewalks. Public restrooms and showers to rinse off outdoors after coming back from the beach.
Scott Schaefer — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous spot for views of the ocean. There is always great wildlife including seals and sea lions. Must see during your Southern California trip!
Sarah Quinata — Google review
La Jolla Cove is a definite highlight in San Diego. It offers a unique experience with sea lions lounging on the shore, making it a must-visit spot. The beauty of the Pacific Ocean is on full display, creating a memorable and distinctive visit for anyone in the area.
Prasenjit Saha — Google review
Beautiful scenic beach and park area. Parking might be an issue, especially on the weekends when you can get stuck for 45 mins in the one-way parking maze and still end up paying $8-10 to find a decent parking about 1 km away from the beach area.
Ranjani Theregowda — Google review
Beautiful free scenery, pelicans, and a bunch of seals are clearly visible, clean restrooms and fresh air. The only thing is obviously, parking is limited and hard to find with the number of people here, so we parked a few blocks out and walked. 100% recommend visiting!
Joshua Gonzalez — Google review
Great spot come take pictures with the family or just enjoy the beautiful San Diego ocean. It’s an amazing glimpse of the landscape of San Diego. The view is pristine. Parking can be a bit of a pain but just be wary. Nonetheless it’s worth it
Brandon Leuangpaseuth — Google review
La Jolla Cove is a small, beautiful beach with a calm surf that makes it a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. In the summer months, the water is clear and you can see a variety of fish and other marine life. The beach is also home to a number of sea lions and seals, which you can often see sunbathing on the rocks. The beach is surrounded by sandstone cliffs, which provide a dramatic backdrop for photos. There is also a small grassy area where you can relax and enjoy the view. La Jolla Cove is a popular tourist destination, so it can be crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. However, the beach is still worth a visit if you're looking for a beautiful and relaxing place to spend a day at the beach. Here are some tips for visiting La Jolla Cove: Arrive early to avoid the crowds. Bring a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. If you're planning on swimming, snorkeling, or diving, be sure to rent or bring your own gear. There are a number of restaurants and shops located near the beach, so you can easily grab a bite to eat or buy souvenirs. Be aware of the tide schedule. The beach can disappear at high tide, so it's important to plan your visit accordingly.
Emad Zaky — Google review
My wife told me this is one of the most photographed beaches, and I can understand why! The cove itself is rather small, but lined on both sides by cliffs of rock, and when we were there in the afternoon, the rocks were covered in sea lions and harbor seals! This was such a neat thing to go and experience, I recommend stopping by here to anyone visiting San Diego. There is very limited parking so don't be surprised if you have to walk a little bit to get here!
Mike W — Google review
Went during the off-season (February) but it was still a blast (assuming you're there to enjoy the ocean air and the seals). Saw some people swimming, although they kept a wide berth from the seals.
William Franklin — Google review
Love this spot in La Jolla. Every once in a while the otters/sea lions come to the beach and lay down. The cove is nestled in a spot where you'll see some cool fish when snorkeling. Kids really enjoyed this spot.
Scott & Jessica Curtis — Google review
San Diego, CA 92037, USA

2La Jolla Shores Beach

4.7
(3900)
Mentioned on 
Beach
The La Jolla Shores Beach is a beautiful, sandy beach with permanent lifeguard stations. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. There are also great amenities for visitors including a playground and Kellogg Park.
Nice ocean breeze. Beautiful & peaceful morning!
Amie Sarte — Google review
Nice beach, excellent view of the ocean, always crowded and sometimes hard to find a parking spot but worth it.
J J — Google review
Shores Beach is more of a private location. It lies away from the main cove and tourist trap of downtown La Jolla. The park for the kiddos is clean and well kept, rentals are available in the area, good food, shops, and fewer traffic shore lines make this location rather unique.
Michael ?Maranara? Maragliano — Google review
Very clean beach. It gets packed on the weekends but if you can find a spot it's definitely worth it. There's lifeguards on duty until 5pm. There's parks right next to the beach with playgrounds and plenty of space to run around. Great family spot!
Valerie Sundman — Google review
Stunning diverse beach with nice of sandstone and mossy grass adding lush green touch to the rocks. Great spot for photo shoots.
Алина — Google review
Lots of surfers. Flagged area for swimming. You can bonfire here. Walk to food. Nice path.. bathrooms and outdoor showers. Not the cleanest but hey who expects that at a public beach. Great spot. Parking lot worked for us but I heard it can really fill up.
Heidi Helfand — Google review
This place is beautiful 🤩. It does get a little crowded over the summer but the skies are worth it. Don’t leave before sunset 🌅. There is a village near here with tons of shops and restaurants. My favorite place to go eat is Barbarella‘s because of the varied menu. My favorite place to grab a drink is that shore rider because it is super laid-back and the margaritas are good. There is a new market on the corner with adorable decor a few home good items and some food. I also like to go to brick and Bell in the morning because they have tea and açai bowls. This place is walkable. If you have kids there’s also a playground. You can rent kayaks and and go on cave tours here. If you do do that I would recommend Groupon because it is half off. I also like swimming in this ocean because there aren’t really big waves. I would recommend shuffling your feet because of the stingrays. There are plenty of lifeguards around. One thing to be mindful of is the yellow and black checkered flag. To the left of the flag and to the right of the flag is the distinction between where the swimmers and the surfers need to be. You are not supposed to swim where the surfers are and this flag will let you know. Just look around and you’ll figure out which side is which. Enjoy!
Gina Britt — Google review
Went there for the afternoon with my family Very beautiful and relaxing Nice beach with a lot of birds and you can see sea lions and seals all around the area There many restaurants and cafes around So many activities like kayaking We also went the famous La Jolla Cove which is really spectacular
Hamad Al Jaber — Google review
I went when the waves were a bit closer to the shore than usual, but it was still worth it! Watched and observed waves from car with kids, and the scenery was breathtaking! I will have to go again! Must warn you that it's crowded from time to time, so sometimes you might be waiting for a while before you can park. There are also seals here!!
anabia ehsan — Google review
Got there before 8am and was able to find great parking. Mostly surfers and divers there at that time. We walked over to a secluded portion of the beach and basically had the beach to ourselves for a while and then the tide receded and more people joined us. It was beautiful though and we even watched a little harbor seal play around in front of us as we sat on the rocks. Great experience, would definitely recommend!
Esteban Armenta — Google review
Great beach for kids, the waves break well for boogie boarding and wave jumping. Also great for surfing. There is a large lifeguard station. It’s nice to walk along the shores down to the scripps pier. There are two bathrooms, grass area and a large playground.
JJ Sullivan — Google review
I definitely recommend taking the family to this beach. It is beautiful, you will want to stay. The view is amazing.
Erlinda Salcido — Google review
One of the most beautiful, City centric, and crowded beaches of San diego. Go early in the mornings for a crowd free view or peaceful wall by the beach. On weekends, you would find the water shores full of Divers, Kayakers and surfers. Plenty of parking available along with kellogs park.
Siddharth Kamdar — Google review
Just south of Scripps is a jewel of San Diego. The La Jolla Shores Beach is vibrant, clean, and populated on a daily basis. There are lifeguards to watch in case you want to get close to the waves; if not, there are plenty of places to walk alongside the beach. Even weddings occur here! For me, I enjoy sitting on a bench and eating next to the ocean breeze. Would highly suggest coming to watch the unobstructed sunset here (if you can find parking).
Tony Wu — Google review
Such a pretty area and a really nice beach and park. We went on a day of a surfing competition so it was pretty busy. Really nice beach to go check out!
Josh Wilson — Google review
Panorama beautiful ocean sea view with lengthy wide beach easily accessible with lots of parking spaces. Sand is soft and sea rescue service is on duty provided by local fire rescue teams. Ideal place for both adults and kids beach and water activities.
Steve Leung — Google review
"Charming Visit with a Chill: La Jolla Shores, San Diego in April" La Jolla Shores in San Diego offered a delightful beach experience during my visit in April, though the Pacific's chill was unmistakably present. The water was quite cold, hovering around 50°, which added a refreshing touch to our beach day, especially for those brave enough to dip in. Visiting during low tide proved to be perfect for skimboarding and some casual boogie boarding, taking advantage of the gentler waves. The darker sand, characteristic of the West Coast, contrasted beautifully with the vast ocean, creating a picturesque setting for a day out. Additionally, the beachside playground was a hit with the kids, providing entertainment and a break from the water activities. Despite its charm, La Jolla Shores does present a challenge when it comes to parking. It's notably difficult, highlighting the importance of arriving early to secure a spot. However, once settled, the beach itself was surprisingly uncrowded, allowing for a more relaxed and personal experience. Having grown up surfing here, returning to La Jolla Shores was a nostalgic journey for me. It's a place filled with memories of bonfires and the simple joys of teenage years. Although the surf was mostly flat on the day of our visit, the beach’s vibe remains vibrant and welcoming. I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to La Jolla Shores Beach for anyone exploring San Diego. It's a locale that encapsulates the essence of Southern California's coastal charm. Just remember, getting there early is key to a stress-free start to your beach day.
Nate — Google review
Nice beach with gorgeous sunset ! Long shoreline with blue sky and seamless waves. Definitely twist your San Diego trip to a memorable one ! Best beach ever !
Christina Wong — Google review
We spent a beautiful day on the beach and enjoyed watching the swans, seagulls and seals. The children were very happy. It is a wonderful place. I recommend it to families to spend a wonderful time.
flavie josephjack — Google review
I heard that this place has a nice view, but at first I thought so. Then, a twist happened. The sunset was more beautiful than anywhere else in the world. Don't you think it would be nice to hear calm ballad music or cool electric guitar music?
김종우 — Google review
Beautiful beach with seals almost sitting at your foot steps. You can see one the caves here that is free of cost. To view the other caves you either need to kayak there or buy a ticket. This was also the easiest to travel with kids or elderly as there are very few steps may be 15-20. It was warm sunny day when we visited and wasn’t windy. Restrooms were clean and also had showers. The beach is rocky though.
Madhumati Junnare — Google review
Beautiful! The sand is the darker kind and there is kelp and stuff, but it was so fun to let the kids play here for a while! There is a wash station/shower area that is so helpful, and bathrooms too.
Tamilisa Miner — Google review
San Diego, CA 92037, USA

3Windansea Beach

4.8
(432)
4.5
(591)
Mentioned on 
Beach
Outdoor Activities
A local beach that's well-known for its easy left/right waves and cool breezes, Windansea is perfect for surfers but not so great for swimmers. It's always crowded and competitive, and features a classic palm-covered surf shack. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer near the Sugar Shack.
Truly a slice of heaven. Peaceful, tranquil, never overly packed. Watch the surfers as the sun sets. A classic tourist mistake is to leave too early after sunset. Wait at least 20 minutes to let the clouds burst into color! Don’t pass up Windansea if you’re stopping by San Diego.
Walker Storrer — Google review
Lovely weather and area to explore, highly recommend slip proof shoes when walking on the rocks. Be mindful of the homes along the beach. Great for surfing and watching surfers doing their thing, taking photos, playing volleyball, or soaking in some sun and a good book. My new favorite spot.
Mrs G — Google review
This is such a beautiful San Diego beach! One of my favorite things about this location is it has both sandy shore and some cliffs. It's perfect for a mix of beautiful landscape and makes for a stunning sunset spot. Parking is easy to find on the neighborhood streets. It's a large enough beach that even when it's crowded it doesn't feel packed. Such an amazing beach for photos or to just relax ☀️
Beth Legg Photography — Google review
This beach is amazing you can stay on the sand or on the rocks . Is not super busy and is wild . The view is fantastic is not the typical California beach is much more better . This place is awesome. You can not miss it !!
Stefano Bertera — Google review
The best beach in San Diego is here! There is so much to see and explore at this hidden beach. If you're a photographer and love SD sunsets I would visit in the late fall and winter months for low tide shots and amazing sunsets! My only complain is that the beach can get very touristy and busy on the weekends and summer months and traffic leaving here is crazy busy. Still as a San Diego local, it's still very magical and sunsets leave you in awe!
Autumn Murphy — Google review
One of the few places that mesmerized me from the get-go. Beautiful rock formations, crazy strong waves, surfers, and stunning sunsets.
Sphoorti Bhandare — Google review
My favorite beach in San Diego. Much less crowded and touristy than others. It's a gem.
Waylon Thomas — Google review
Not at all crowded, beautiful for pictures, great waves for the surfers.
Tiffany McKinney — Google review
Nice beach with rock formations, good for surfing. The sunset is very beautiful.
Gabriel F — Google review
Gorgeous beach next to the La Jolla Cove
Carmen Pascual — Google review
Beautiful coastline with huge rock formations to explore. Cool spot to just hang with a cup of coffee and watch surfers. The neighborhoods around here are also gorgeous.
Dani Lee — Google review
Always a beautiful location to photograph. Gladly saw other people cleaning up trash that wasn't even theirs! Maternity, family, couples photography sessions are perfect here or just regular portraits. Photographers can take over though... sorry ahead of time!
Morning Owl Fine Art Photography San Diego CA — Google review
Beautiful so cal beach to go watch the sunset, picnic or play and hang all day! A bit different scenery with its amazing rocks and tide pool areas. Great spot for fantastic photos. Iconic palapa for the surfers and life guards. Definitely will be back with the kids, they will love doing parkour on the rocks!
Nicole Leszczynski — Google review
San Diego, CA 92037, USA

4Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

4.8
(14260)
4.5
(3800)
Mentioned on 
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
The Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a large, undeveloped stretch of coastline on the Southern California coast. The park features rugged landscapes, including forests and beaches, and is home to a variety of animals, including dolphins and bobcats. The reserve is easy to get to and features convenient parking.
Torrey Pines State Reserve has some of my favorite hiking near San Diego proper. The landscape is amazing with the vast amounts of erosion and shrubs in the area surrounding the beach. I love taking the west overlook and taking the trails down to the beach from exploring in that area. Get there early since parking fills up fast. This is a great place for a quick day hike!
Jeremy Janus — Google review
We took our family that just flew in from Germany to take in these beautiful views. They loved it. A lot of people where there. The views are stunning. Weather wise was perfect for the hike. Parking is $25 and the line seemed to move extremely slow. But it’s definitely worth going. But I believe there is parking outside if you are lucky and patient enough to keep driving around.
Angelika McKinney — Google review
Beautiful beach park with lots of trails to walk around on. Going down to the beach is a bit challenging as there's more than 100 steps, but shouldn't be too much of an issue. Just note that the next beach over is a nudist beach so you might see some naked people
Jacob Teeter — Google review
One of my favorite spots to walk/hike and relax at the beach. I never try to find the free parking, just use the south lot and pay $15 during the week and $20 on weekend. Bathrooms and sinks with soap and water. Nice hike - can adjust length by adding loops. Love the beach trail. Clean beach, rarely over-crowded. Saw a group of dolphins, even!
Dedina W — Google review
Spectacular, amazing and stunning views!!! If you are visiting SD or haven’t visited this place yet, this is a must! When you get to the top there are few hiking trails with different miles to choose. The most popular is Beach trail which brings you down to the beach and walk you straight to your car😃 Parking next to the park is hard and can take you time but it’s not impossible sometimes we do have those lucky times. There is a lot of parking around maybe 0.50m away or you can pay 20$ parking for the day😜
Susan G — Google review
This state Park is amazing, never gets old. I don't mind paying a $20 fee to park at the gate, well worth it. Great customer service, clean trail, clean beach and plenty restroom... Loll... Please note, no dogs aloud, but again it is a great experience... A little over 2 miles if you take the beach pathway or over 4 miles if you decide to walk up to the beach then go back up towards "the road" or Torrey pines lodge. They have done an incredible job by adding a new trail and fixing the stairs going down the beach. 5 star hike by the water.
christelle tachon — Google review
Excellent hiking trails! Due to having small children we opted to pay the $25 to park at the parking lot at the top of the hill and walk down from there to the beach instead of trying to find free parking and walking up the hill. FYSA, they do not accept a military discount or the national parks pass. There are bathrooms at the top and bottom of the hill although the top bathrooms were closed and they just had porta potties. The beach trailer was about 2 miles round trip and takes you down the beach. We were able to do it with our small children without any issues. The path is fairly wide for most of the areas.
Matt Wittkopp — Google review
My favorite hike close to home. You will need to pay for parking (if you don’t have a state park pass) and can park at the bottom and walk up or there is a small parking lot up the hill. The path is easy to walk through but will get your heart pumping. Accessibility to the beach will depend on the tide. Stay away from the side of the cliffs if you’re walking on the beach. I’ve seen them fall and it can be scary.
Kikumi Phelps — Google review
Beautiful state Park for hiking regardless of your fitness level. Beautiful trails through woody and arid areas with amazing views over the whole San Diego shoreline. Many nice places to take a short break and sit down. One trails ends up to beach access and there is a small visitor center showing the native species. Worth a half day or day visit. Also no entrance fee.
Ali Stone — Google review
One of the most amazing spots in San Diego County with beautiful trails and stunning views. Watch the most spectacular sunsets, while dolphins are chasing the waves below. Intricate sandstone shapes created by the water and wind give this park a unique charm and the indigenous plants and flowers are an attraction of their own. Walk all the way down to the beach and enjoy the waive-carved colorful rocks. To avoid paying for parking and admission, park across from the golf course and walk to the park. Portable toilets are available and are always kept nice and clean. Don't leave San Diego without visiting Torrey Pines!
Anatoly Petkov — Google review
Our favourite place in San Diego. There are any trails from easy to moderate. We take longer one and take detour to smaller ones between. Nice activity for couples who likes to stay active and healthy like us.
Monica Banavase Somashekara — Google review
A great beach with easy access , clean bathrooms and trails. We went towards the end of the day around 3pm so there was parking. If you go in the morning, it’s gets full fast and people park along the road to avoid paying the 15$ daily use. You can enter and park or drive up to the visitor center. The beach has nice mix of black sand and beach sand and few round river rock. Tide pool is short of a mile walk from life guard tower one at flat rock but you need to go during low tide or you can’t access during high tide. It’s not too crowded and lots of open space
Jeffery Kong — Google review
Gorgeous views of the ocean and natural scenery. We paid $18 for parking at the entrance and drove up to the visitor center parking lot. Friendly staff at the center and informative exhibits. We took the Flat Rock Beach trail and it was super easy with kids. Mostly downhill with a few steps. Zero shade, and though the beach was a welcome sight on a hot day we had no relief….no marine layer just hot wind! Despite the heat we decided to make a loop to the North fork Trailhead via Broken Hill Trail. I’d call this moderate as it was all uphill. Once we got to the junction it was flat all the way back to the visitor center. 2.2 miles in all and the kids were tired and sweaty but triumphant. Really beautiful scenery and plant life. Bring water!
Alvin Gogineni — Google review
Really nice natural reserve! Pretty busy on a Sunday morning but worth it for sure. We did the beach loop trail and walked from the north beach lot. It was around 4 miles and moderate difficulty. The views from the top are really wonderful and the terrain is cool. We went to yucca pt at the top and the view is beautiful. The cliffs along the beach on the way back are also really beautiful. We did see small debris falling so stay aware.
Sara Valderrama — Google review
It’s just gorgeous! The view is stunning! I think it’s the best state park in CA. The guided tour is a must have if you are first time visitor. We really enjoyed the two-hour ( it’s supposed to be one hour) tour guided by Gary. He’s so knowledgeable and made the tour such a pleasure. This park is a pure gem which is so special and unique in Southern California. It recalls me of those beautiful coastal areas in Northern California. It’s a must go in Southern California.
Diana R — Google review
This was a fun little day hike. Ended up walking 2.8 miles through some trails a few hills and then brought you down to the beach. Where are you finished a hike back to the parking area. When we started, it was pretty overcast, but by the time we got back to the parking area, it had burned off and was pretty nice. I would consider this an easy hike, but there are a few challenges with some stairs and a couple hills.
Scot Meeker — Google review
The Torrey Pines trail hike in San Diego was an absolute delight. Nestled beside the scenic beach, the trail offered breathtaking views that took my breath away. The rugged cliffs, the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, and the vibrant coastal flora created a picturesque backdrop for the entire journey. The trail was well-maintained, making the hike enjoyable for both beginners and experienced hikers. The cool breeze from the ocean and the soothing sound of the waves provided a calming ambiance throughout the hike. I was particularly impressed by the diversity of the landscape, from sandy paths to rocky terrains, offering a varied hiking experience. The sighting of local wildlife, including birds and plants unique to the region, added an extra layer of charm to the adventure. Overall, the Torrey Pines trail hike was a memorable experience, perfect for nature enthusiasts and anyone looking to escape into the serenity of the coastal wilderness.
Sajjad Raeisi — Google review
Nice hike with ocean views. We parked just before the entrance to the park and had a short uphill walk to start the hike. The trail was clearly marked and could be done in a loop, or you can finish the hike on the beach and walk back to the parking lot. We opted the beach route so we did not have to back track. We didn’t see any snakes but saw a spider that was capable of eating a small child.
K P — Google review
Lovely hike with incredible views all the way! The razor back formations are one of a kind and super pretty. Overall the walk isn’t too strenuous but well worth the views. When you are down on the beach make sure to see flat rock and check out the tide pools.
EB — Google review
I didn’t purchase tickets online and it cost me $15 at the gate for a daily pass. I went on a Monday morning and there were plenty of parking spaces once inside the gate. All of the trails are pretty short and moderate. My favorite one was the Razor Point trail. Great views of the cliff side and a nice 180 degree view of the shore. The Parry Grove trail was also a good one. Spent about 2 hours in the park and was able to do most of the shorter trails. Beautiful blue water down here compared to LA.
Aliza Brown — Google review
What a lovely park. The entry price is a bit high at $15. The paths are well maintained. Lots of volunteers to help with education and advice. The lady at the car pay booth was adorable.
Ninette — Google review
Visited this park on Jan 1st. Parked inside, there were plenty of parking spots inside @9.30am. there were a lot of people. We did almost all of it including the smaller loops inside except for the coastal trail. By the time we reached the coastal part it was nearing high tide and we thought of not doing it and returned. From one lookout in the Guy Fleming Grove, we saw multiple pods of dolphins! It's my first time seeing dolphins. Torrey pines are also a highlight here along with many other native plants. Must do while in SD.
Evelyn Paulose — Google review
12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037, USAhttps://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=657(858) 755-2063

5Torrey Pines Gliderport

4.8
(4723)
4.5
(1463)
Mentioned on 
Hang gliding center
Sights & Landmarks
The Torrey Pines Gliderport in San Diego is a popular spot for hang gliding and parasailing with stunning views of the coast and ocean. In addition to this activity, guests also have the opportunity to learn how to fly paragliders or tandem flights.
This place is awesome, we took a Falconry class with Dave and the other lady but I forgot her name. These is a private property and you cannot just walk in, you have to either be with the Falcon chickens or flying the parachute thingies there. The falconry classes can be found at Total Raptor Experience.
jorge corbaton — Google review
The glider port at Torrey Pines is an amazing place to experience the beauty of the Southern California coastline. The location offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, and is a popular spot for hang gliding and paragliding enthusiasts. The launch ramp provides a perfect launching spot for those seeking an adrenaline-fueled flight. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience even more enjoyable. They provide all necessary equipment, including gliders and harnesses, and offer instruction for beginners. The glider port also offers tandem flights for those who want to experience the thrill of hang gliding without the commitment of learning how to fly solo. The facilities at the glider port are well-maintained and clean, providing a safe and comfortable environment for visitors. There are also several picnic tables and grills available for those who want to enjoy a picnic or BBQ while taking in the stunning views. Overall the glider port at Torrey Pines is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the excitement of hang gliding or paragliding. The staff, equipment, and breathtaking views make it a truly unforgettable experience.
regis kwong — Google review
Did not glide today as there was a 130 lb weight limit due to weak winds (next time we will call first). Extremely affordable gift shop! That was impressive! Friendly, knowledgeable staff. There is food but burgers and dogs. So fun just to watch!
Stacie T — Google review
Fun place to experience the freedom of flying...gliding. Very relaxing. Incredible views of the Southern California coast, especially the cliffs that you won't see other places. Bar service, food, and picnic tables make it a natural place to hang out and enjoy a couple of hours in the sun. Port o potties have ALWAYS BEEN DISCUSTING. Bring your own wipes.
Christi Webb — Google review
A spectacular sight as we watched them glide down the cliffs. There was plenty of parking space when we arrived close to noon. Next to it is a hike down to Black Beach which can be a challenge to some but it's worth the exercise as we relaxed by the beach.
Kim Wang — Google review
First of all, people who works here are absolutely amazing ⭐️what an amazing soulful atmosphere! Thank you for such an incredible experience and time with You! Thank you for the memories you gave us and for the wonderful support and care you gave our little one during the flight! There will be a thousand of people flying with you but for us you will be a memory for whole life 🪂
Lucy I am — Google review
We did not go up, but it sure was fun to stop and watch all the fun people were having there on the cliffs. It was a beautiful day and there were smiles all around - beautiful scenery. We contemplated but there was somewhere else we had to be. Would love to go back and try.
Theresa St. John — Google review
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Torrey Pines in San Diego and it was an experience that I will never forget! The views from the top of the cliff were absolutely breathtaking and the trails were well-maintained and easy to navigate. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the park was kept clean and free of litter. I highly recommend this park for anyone looking for a great place to explore and enjoy nature. 4 stars!
shirish kamat — Google review
The Gliderport never disappoints. One of these days I'll sign up for a tandem flight. However, in the meantime, we visit several times a year and enjoy lunch and the view. The seating and food preparation areas have improved, allowing a leisurely lunch while watching paragliders take flight and land. An outdoor pizza oven was added, but couldn't tell if it was in operation the afternoon we were there. Highly recommend this place for local and out-of-towners. It used to be that you could bring your own sack lunch and sit and it, but they now have signs indicating no outside food may be brought into the seating area. We share a burger and fries. Ordered another plate of fries as they were so good.
Sue Martindale — Google review
Went here for Total Raptor experience, be sure to book ahead of time it's AMAZING and one of the few ways outside of being a registered pilot to enter the field. Be aware of the rules ie don't walk on the grass area--just DON'T! It's for your safety and frankly your terrible cell phone photo ain't worth getting hurt or worse hurting one of the pilots who is trying to avoid hitting you (I saw so SO many people thinking they could sneak out to grab a selfie 🙄) you'll get a stern warning trust me they don't mess around, be aware of the signs/areas, the risks and wear extra sunscreen. There's a small shop that sells sandwiches, refreshments but bathrooms are porta potties in the parking lot. I recommend parking farther away and walking or ubering over as the lot fills quickly on nice days. Such a great venue to enjoy the ocean, the paragliders and the amazing views (and hang with some winged friends for an afternoon!)
Kate S. — Google review
This was an amazing experience! This is a must see if you are visiting South California. The gliders lift off and land in an area very near the observation area. In addition, there is an overlook area where the gliders zip past the edge of the cliffs with the ocean in the background. Truly an experience we will cherish.
Scott Higdon — Google review
Great location. Sightseeing. Portable restroom. Parking on dirt. Walking is great and easy here.
LAZARO HERRERA — Google review
I recently visited this beach, and it offers a unique experience for surf enthusiasts. The beach is known for its excellent surfing conditions, making it a popular spot for riders looking to catch some waves. One advantage of this beach is the ample parking available, which is often a rarity at popular coastal destinations. It's a convenience that can make your visit more enjoyable, especially if you're hauling surfboards or beach gear. However, it's important to note that there's a significant drawback to this beach. The walk up and down to the beach can be quite challenging due to steep inclines or rugged terrain. This may pose difficulties for some visitors, particularly those with mobility issues or families with young children. In summary, if you're a dedicated surfer seeking great waves and plenty of parking, this beach could be a fantastic choice. Just be prepared for a bit of a workout when navigating the terrain to get to and from the water.
Ethan Wehman — Google review
Beautifull sunrise spot. Be ready for some stairs and some elevation when climbing back up. Great spot, everyone has been friendly.
Tamara Cooper — Google review
What a great experience. The 20 mins up in the air is the perfect amount of time and we got two great guides. Didn’t get the photos or videos which was fine because the ones we took on our own were cool.
Kristina Bolt — Google review
It's very nice views are overwhelming. I don't like that they have port-a-potties 🤮 the seating are needs revamped metal High chairs are not it. The food vendors seem ok I didn't order anything.Lots of bees so be careful, we visited in October and there was tons around the glideport viewing area. The parking lot was spacious lots of places to park just be careful people don't pay attention when backing up (I prevented an accident. Had to lay on the horn so this guy didn't Backup into this other car). Walking around the grounds 😵 lots of steep & narrow paths and uneven paths. I'd highly recommend wearing some decent tennis shoes. Not flip flops I seen this guy wearing some and I was floored. I personally wouldn't recommend bringing kids to any of the paths its definitely not safe for little ones (or strollers, etc) I did see a dad with his child in a backpack type of thing which was nice but with how narrow the paths are I'd not recommend it.
Eric B. — Google review
We did this for my wife’s birthday. If you call the phone number at the glider port desk they will let you know if it’s windy enough to fly well and how busy the line is. We were up in the air for about 20 minutes and each had our own pilot but they flew close enough together that we could smile and see each other in the air! My guide was very skillful and went closer to the cliffs while my wife’s stayed high in the sky since she was more nervous. We landed back on the same spot we took off from right by the desk and bathrooms. During the flight there was a photographer that took these awesome photographs.
Levi Renninger — Google review
This was the highlight of my trip to San Diego, and I did it on a whim. I am so glad I did! Christo, my tandem paraglider instructor, made me feel so comfortable! Do it! Do it! If it didn’t cost money, I will do it again!
gladys Aakre — Google review
2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037, USAhttp://www.flytorrey.com/(858) 452-9858

Top places to eat

4.4
(1342)
4.5
(812)
Mentioned on 
very expensive
Restaurant
The Marine Room is a high-end seafood restaurant with stunning ocean views that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. The chefs here are particularly skilled in creating dishes with a diverse range of flavors and ingredients, making it a must-go for seafood lovers looking for something special.
I must admit I had been staring at the reviews for weeks before finally going. It was definitely a great way to celebrate ourselves. The experience was superior. The server was great. The food was such a delight. It was delicious. Everything was cooked perfectly. I love the fact the menu is always changing. I highly recommend experiencing this facility.
Ashley Perez — Google review
In summary you pay for the view!! The food and service are average comparing what you pay. Two things that I didn’t like; The server tone and language was impolite and he was talking down, for example when he wanted to ask how was the food, he was like tell me how great did the chef!? I felt like I am dinning as a servant in a palace sometime around 1800. The other thing was a mistake in our bill which I would never accept when they call themselves a fine dining restaurant. I would rather not to check the bill but the amount they’ve charged us made me do that. Can’t complain about the view and the exceptional location though. I am not sure if i can recommend this place since I only liked the view…
Armin P — Google review
This is an interesting and fantastic place to indulge in a tasty dinner and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean! Candice provides an exceptional customer experience, showcasing world class professionalism and warm, friendly demeanor that truly made our evening unforgettable. By the way, you can enhance your celebration or special occasion with the backdrop of a breathtaking romantic sunset. For an extra touch of magic, coordinate it with high tides for a close-up encounter with the mesmerizing waves. 🌊
Antonio Vargas (VagabondDragons) — Google review
I have to say, this restaurant is the most memorable part of my trip to San Diego. Super nice view of the beach and especially, the food is DELICIOUS. I am a fine dining person, I like the experience but I don’t often say the world “delicious” but this is exceptional. Their dessert wine is also great if you a sweet wine person. Staff is very friendly
Chau Tran — Google review
Good location, great view from the window. The view from the window is the main reason to come. The food is really delicious. Good, polite waiters. But I didn't like the moment with the fact that we wanted to book a table specifically by the window, as we had a wedding anniversary and we wanted to feel a romantic atmosphere. We called but no one answered the phone. When we arrived, we were not seated by the window, but literally a couple of minutes later a table by the window was vacated, we asked to be moved. The administrator replied that this table was booked by some man. After they put 2 girls there, it means they lied to us. It turns out that they lied to us and simply did not want to transplant us. On the plus side, they let us in with our dog without question. When we said that it was our anniversary, they brought us dessert as a gift. Above average prices
Elena L — Google review
I consider this one of the top 10 restaurants in San Diego. View is top notch. Food is outstanding - beautiful and delicious. Service is dependent on who you get - for a fine dining restaurant, service levels were mixed. Irma was the one that ensured that we left feeling welcomed and treated well. When it comes to fine dining - gotta have ambiance (5*), service (4*) and good food (5*).
Fabian DeRozario — Google review
One of my favorite places in La Jolla. The view is beyond amazing, especially when it is high tide. The service is superb 👌. Everything is done with providing the best quality to the customer. We came for our anniversary and the meal was fabulous. We stopped for a night cap at the bar. Tony, the bartender, is one of the best.
Evelyn Diaz Reyes — Google review
We were celebrating our daughter’s belated Birthday. Were seated by the window: gray gracious sunset. The dinner was beautifully presented, delicious, service was impeccable. Wow. Thank you. Cheers
Jurate Elena — Google review
The food was divine and the whole experience was great. We sat by the window RIGHT at sunset, and it was so beautiful. The seabream was rich and delicious paired with the acidic pan sauce. I highly recommend that if you don't mind whole fish!
Casey Wells — Google review
Great ambience and incredible ocean views! Expensive but worth the price for a memorable experience. Highly recommend the filet/lobster tail. If possible, I’d suggest calling ahead to request a table next to the window for the full experience. I made the reservation based on timing the sunset but overlooked the tide schedule. Pro move would be to make a reservation that combines sunset with high-tide.
Austin Parker — Google review
So incredibly delicious!!! The staff was incredibly polite, efficient, and we'll mannered, excited to return. The food was so delicious!!!! We had our 11th anniversary there, the staff ensured our special day would not be forgotten.
Matthew Ren — Google review
After rude wait staff 30+ years ago I was talked into returning here for dinner. The food was good and the view, if you happen to get one of the good tables which we didn't, is amazing. The cocktails were well made. The lobster bisque was terrific with ample lobster bits. The Caesar Salad was good with nice citrus notes. The Sea Bream was surprisingly good. Unfortunately the wait staff lived down to the past, but in a different way. They were polite this visit vs my youth when I swore never to return (took a date here before a formal dance - mistake!). This time - Empty water glasses, bread after the course, taking silverware away before food arrived, etc. They certainly aren't spending their 5% labor surcharge on staffing. Expensive for what you get. Plenty of better food with service to match prices at other places in town. If you get a view table worth going for that but not much else.
David Kern — Google review
Hard to beat the view especially at sunset hour. We made reservation for my birthday to eat at the lounge thinking we could order dinner here but came to find out the lounge reservations are only for drinks and appetizers/small plates. So for those that want to enjoy dinner, book the dining room. Nevertheless we had a great time and highly recommend this restaurant for those special occasions. The appetizers were delicious and staff very helpful and kind.
Hamid R — Google review
I absolutely fell in love with this restaurant! If you are looking for something for a special occasion or even to just treat yourself, or whoever this is definitely the place to go to. The moment you walk in the door it is so captivating and the ambiance is absolutely incredible definitely succeed my expectations! Overall absolutely wonderful! My boyfriend and I had came here for our anniversary and it was both our first time here and the service exceed our expectations exponentially! I was all smiles the whole time because of how lovely everything is and it smells so nice as soon as you walk in you can most definitely tell that there is thought into every single detail in this restaurant which is so nice. The view is not only captivating but the food that is served here is so delicious and I find it so admirable how the staff has so much knowledge of The Marine room and when reading the menu they explain everything perfectly and even the science behind the food which I absolutely love ! As for the taste of the food I had ordered a Wagyu steak and as soon as I took the first bite it was like a burst of flavor and emotion in my pallet and the food had made my pallet dance. My boyfriend had ordered steak and lobster (I cannot remember what it was named on the menu) and it was absolutely delicious as well. We were also given a complementary dessert that we were told was off menu and it had made the experience even more memorable since it was my boyfriends and I anniversary and that was the absolute sweetest thing a restaurant has ever done in my experience and I will always remember the feeling that this restaurant has gave me. I’ve been talking about this place nonstop since and recommended to people I know and which also, inspired me more to write a review. There is so much more I could say but I’d just be rambling on this review lol. Thank you to the Owner and Staff for such a wonderful experience I will most definitely be looking forward to another experience <3
Atalee — Google review
This is definitely the spot for special occasions. Stefano provided great service throughout and other staff was very attentive, but don't fill up on bread! I doubt you can go wrong with anything on the menu. The food tastes as good, if not better than it looks. View is gorgeous. Go if you can!
Amanda Levy — Google review
Amazing place and a 10/10 recommend. We made reservations a couple weeks in advance after hearing about the place online. Figured it was a good place to have a nice dinner on our vacation - and we were right! Our waiter, Kevin was absolutely wonderful and later told us it was actually his first day off training - would have never guessed. We had amazing apps, highly recommend the Brussels sprouts. And the filet mignon was like butter, the flounder was out of this world as well. And forget the view!! Such a relaxing dinner. Also recommend stopping by The Lounge (their bar area) before dinner if you have time. We were able to sit at a table and grab a few drinks before our reservation time. Drinks were 10/10 as well! This place is pricey, you’ll likely end up spending 100+ per person after apps, entrees, dessert, and drinks but honestly we found it to be very worth it for the service, food and ambience. not an everyday place for us but perfect for a special occasion.
Marisa Li — Google review
Nicholas and the rest of the staff were fantastic! Candace our waitress was very well informed and offered great choices. The food was beyond our expectations and we loved the wine selection. Everyone from valet to the food runners are worthy of 5 stars. Thanks for the memorable night!! The food deserves a Michelin star!
Tamika Williams — Google review
I took my wife here to celebrate my return. It was exactly what was needed. Our server, Stefano was the best. The food was amazing and the view of the ocean was romantic! IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A ROMANTIC DINNER THIS IS THE PLACE! Make sure you make a reservation ahead of time just in case.
A G — Google review
Fantastic experience! We went for our anniversary and it was the perfect choice. Phenomenal food and service, and we even got an off-menu dessert as an anniversary gift. You can't go wrong with any dish, and the views are so lovely, especially if you're facing out into the ocean. Would recommend for any special occasion. Definitely make your reservation early if you have a specific day in mind
Ashley LeBourveau — Google review
The Marine Room is an amazing experience. Most restaurants like this are very pretentious and "formal" but not the Marine Room. We celebrated our anniversary there and they were so kind and attentive. Tony the bartender was great and friendly. Kevin our waiter was in training but you would have never guested it, as he was attentive, informative and just plain nice The food? Horrible. LOL, no the food is a tour de force. The Wagyu A5 steak was literally butter. The lobster, all 2 lbs of it, was so fresh and amazing. The view? It's California and the ocean is your painting. The cost? Hey you get what you pay for and The Marine Room definitely earned their money.
Richard R. P — Google review
4.6
(388)
4.5
(670)
Mentioned on 
expensive
American restaurant
NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar is a modern Californian restaurant that features a contemporary design and focuses on seasonal dishes. The restaurant's menu is inspired by different parts of the United States, as well as Jamaican cuisine. The kitchen is also skilled in sous vide cooking which allows for dishes to be cooked without heat.
Overall excellent. The atmosphere was nice, sitting outside was considerable as they have heaters. The prefix menu was great, we enjoyed the duck, the mushrooms and the pasta the most! Their wine pairing was spot on and their servers were prompt and responsive
Luai Zarour — Google review
Came here for the tasting menu for our wedding anniversary. Just visiting here in San Diego for a couple of months and we usually like to try out tasting menus in different places. For the price per head, the food didn't really live up to our expectations. It was good, but not that creative, and didn't feel like an "experience" so much. We've had $50/head tasting menus in NYC that were so much better. Service was great though, and the staff was really friendly.
Franco Nidea — Google review
What a delightful culinary experience, my son and I are foodies and wanted to try the chefs choice menu for a special evening of celebration. Absolutely fantastic experience, selected 2 different glass of wine and loved both of them . Service personnel and our server were all stellar! Food were not only delicious, cooked to perfection, decorated lovely ! For food lovers highly recommended the experience.
Emelia — Google review
Very great brunch choice by my cuz who hosted our visit in La Jolla. We ordered sourdough bread with sea salt butter, lettuce wrapped burger, ranchos huevos, truffle fries, shrimp sandwich. They were all delish 😍😍😍 The restroom is marbled like the Ritz. Nice ambience here at Nine Ten. Fun and reliable service as well
Babetravelling — Google review
The food quality is great. They serve brunch lunch and dinner on weekdays and only brunch and dinner on weekends. Staff are friendly. If the weather is good, choose to seat outside. Make sure to make a reservation if it is a busy time. The burger and the sashimi are awesome, don't forget about them.
Nima Sarrafi — Google review
The pork belly appetizer was very salty, the blue cheese foam in the beet salad was overpowering, the lamb was decent, the duck was tasty and well cooked. The donuts for dessert were delicious.
Gabriel Kent — Google review
Beautifully presented and tasty food. Service is excellent. We came here a few years ago for San Diego restaurant week. Thoroughly enjoyed it the first time, second time. And now our third. Our server was friendly and knowledable. Only wish the vodka martinis were better.
Virginia Huffman — Google review
I came to San Diego last month to visit a friend and tour one of the alleged greatest foodie cities in the country. I did a lot of cross-referencing of multiple sources, and I deduced that this was one of the best breakfast restaurants in town. So I had to come here. It's in the lobby of a fancy hotel, and it is absolutely gorgeous inside. Huge wine racks, huge windows, a nice bar. We get inside, get seated, and look at the delightful menu to see what looks good. We started off with some baked good. I had an everything bagel, and I also sampled a blueberry scone. Both were served with butter, house-made jam. Both were amazing. A giant scone, which wasn't too dry, surprising. And a perfectly crunchy bagel. Each warm bite with various amounts of butter and/or jam. I felt like I was in freaking France or something. After munching on those delicious treats, I got a main dish, an amazing Shakshuka (two eggs baked in tomato sauce, onions, peppers, feta cheese, parsley & grilled bread). I could not believe how good this was. Acidic tomato sauce with a slew of soft, flavorful veggies. The egg gave the dish a nice protein to focus on, and then the ooey gooey pop of the yolk. All of the heaviness was contrasted with the tang of that beautiful feta, and the pile of fresh herbs on top. All of this deliciousness was perfectly accompanied by the four giant, perfect slices of sourdough that was served on the side. Lovely dish. Six stars. I also got to sample the NINE-TEN Omelette (asparagus, cherry tomato, onion, goat cheese, herb-roasted potatoes, choice of toast). I don't use this word very often, but this omelette was epic. Massive, but not overcooked, also not undercooked. The toppings were masterfully selected. The freshness, the acid, the bite, and the creeaaminess of the goat cheese. So good. Add in the perfectly roasted potatoes on the side, and the wonderful toast. This was an excellent omelette. I was a fan. Overall, this was the perfect breakfast. I already had an amazing dinner. Add in this amazing breakfast, and San Diego was starting to live up to its culinary hype. Five stars. Will return.
Christopher Atkinson — Google review
I had heard about this restaurant multiple times and was finally able to check it out. You definitely need a reservation even in the middle of the week because the restaurant isn't exceptionally large and it's popular. The inside was classically designed and elegant. Service was excellent, and we happen to go on Wednesday when bottles of wine are half price. We decided to go with a bottle, and we ordered the duck and the striped bass for our entrees. We also got the tuna crudo which was incredible, as well as the Napoletano dessert which was top five desserts I've ever had at a restaurant. It had an incredible blend of textures and flavors that wasn't too sweet but incredibly dynamic and unique. Absolutely go again. With the appetizer, to entrees and a dessert plus a half-price bottle of wine, after tip it was around $215 for two of us. Well worth it.
Summer Sandberg — Google review
I can’t believe I lived in San Diego, my whole life and just went to this restaurant for my first time. This place is a true hidden gem with phenomenal food, an amazing wine list, and great service. Chris was our waiter and he’s also the house sommelier. He was extremely knowledgeable and walked through the entire dining experience. We ordered an amazing bottle of burgundy as well as a bottle of Bordeaux. The food was ethereal. Not only did it look beautiful, but the flavors were amazing. I had a ribeye with a pomegranate sauce that was out of this world. My wife had these perfect scallops. We went with some friends, and everyone was blown away. We will definitely be back.
Walter Wilson — Google review
Fantastic dinner! There is nothing better than having Celiac Disease and being able to feel as if you don't. My husband, son and I dined last evening for our anniversary. To start, we the had fresh Cesar salad and our son had the jerk pork belly. I had the salmon with truffles, my husband had the chicken and our son had the best burger. For dessert there was banana cake and ice cream, for me without the cake, and my husband had stuffed donuts. The staff was absolutely professional, kind and understood what I could and could not eat. The great news was most dishes were fine for me to select. We added Nine-Ten to our rotation of local restaurants recently and I am happy we did!
J. Warren — Google review
Service is good 👍🏻 Pretty basic breakfast .But if your looking for early breakfast this is something to think about before going. Bacon is dry and burnt when we ate not a big deal for some. But overall it’s a spot to try. “There’s always room for improvement”.
Rt Galvez — Google review
A bistro-style restaurant with an emphasis on seafood and nice view of the sea. I first discovered this place through the Michelin guide and decided to give it a try. The atmosphere is beautiful and the service is professional. As per my server's recommendation, I ordered the Jerk Pork Belly appetizer, which I greatly enjoyed. The tender pork pairs really well with the sweet glaze and sweet potato puree, and hints of Jerk seasoning elevates this dish and the plating is also elegant. I highly recommend this dish to anyone who likes sweet and savory combinations. Things came to a sharp decline when I moved to my entree. I ordered the catch of the day, which is halibut sauteed in brown butter with seasonal veggies. The plating was beautiful, but as soon as I set my knife on the fish, I knew it was overcooked. The fish was so dry and fibrous that pieces got stuck in my teeth. The sauce was also on the sour side and the whole dish was not very well balanced. My server was quite busy with the newer guests and did not come to check my food. When I raised my concern to another server, she simply told me that she would inform the kitchen and left, never to be seen again. I had high hopes for the halibut but was very disappointed. I know the kitchen can do better (as the pork earlier was very good) but probably would not go back anytime soon. Overall, this place is still worthy of trying out but be prepared for some rough dishes.
Chenlin Lu (Leo) — Google review
Fantastic fine dining experience with friends! Beautiful view when seated outside. Everything was scrumptious - I was full; but still could've eaten more! A beautiful display of plating with loads of flavor. I'd recommend. Make sure to take a walk down to the La Jolla Cove after to see the Sealions.
William Kucmierowski (Brimstone) — Google review
My brother is a foodie, and I took him here for his birthday. He loved the whole experience, and every bite of the food! He said it was “exceptionally excellent”! He liked it better than our dinner last year at Animae. I also thought everything was consistently delicious, and especially loved the panna cotta. Soooo smooth and yummy! Ambiance was pleasant, I’d say it’s “easygoing elegance”. Parking at 6pm on a Wednesday was easy, down the street.
Jen — Google review
I consider this a staple in La Jolla and a wonderful place to have a private room if you have toddlers with you! Delicious food!! Please try their steaks, try their duck and try their lamb! Cannot speak for the others but I bet they will not disappoint (excuse the limited photos). Always finish with dessert just an FYI.
D L — Google review
4.5
(4499)
4.5
(1005)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Hawaiian restaurant
Restaurant
This hawaiian-inspired restaurant offers stunning views of the ocean and delicious food. It is owned and run by TS restaurants, a San Diego-based company that takes a lot of its menu from sister locations in Hawaii. This mixture of Hawaiian and Californian food makes it an unusual place to visit, but visitors to San Diego will find it quite welcoming.
We ordered off the Restaurant Week menu: the steak and the macadamia crusted fish. Both were excellent. The first course of coconut shrimp was amazing. We really enjoyed the desserts too. We were seated right along the railing, so we had a beautiful ocean view. The vibe is great - lively without being loud. Really enjoyed everything, and our server was great.
Mark Burns — Google review
I love this place!! Located by the shore, it has a beautiful view and ambience. We ordered calamari, fish tacos, and mango bbq salad and all of them were great. Highly recommend this place!!
Jain Ryu — Google review
Wow, having spent 10 days in SD we found La Jolla cove and Dukes on our last day... It is safe to say it was so good we are already planning our next trip from Scotland to San Diego! The food here was incredible, in a very cool restaurant, with great views... And it was phenomenal value compared to other restaurants in San Diego. It was all fresh and super tasty. We had the hurricane chicken, the burger, and the pulled pork and they were all superb. If your are anywhere near La Jolla... Don't miss Dukes! You may have to wait for a table, but it is most definitely worth the wait. Shout out to Claire who was our brilliant server on the day!
Joe King — Google review
Casual, good food, nice atmosphere with amazing waitstaff. You can’t go wrong here. If you are looking for a casual good time with good food and drinks this is your spot! If you like calamari I highly recommend theirs and also the hummus. My two favorite appetizers. Lots of good main course options also and don’t forget dessert - they typically have key lime pie also but it’s the Hola pie for me every time!
Nicole Wilson — Google review
This was my favorite restaurant out of all the restaurants on my trip! The views were breathtaking, the food was exceptional and the staff were so friendly! We arrived at 10:30 on a Sunday and waited outside for the restaurant to open and we got a perfect table on the patio with the most amazing view! I had the eggs Benedict, my father in law had the Eggs Benedict with crab, my husband had the breakfast sandwich with Spam and my mother in law had the French toast. Everything tasted perfect!
Shelley Galer — Google review
If you are looking for a place with great view and delicious food in La Jolla San Diego, this is the place you must try! We went there yesterday for a lunch date and we loved it. Food was super yum! We have ordered two cocktails, we loved ‘Honi Honi’ it was too good! I have to mention about their “Pork” it was super soft , delicious! We ordered two entrees both of them are good and it comes with salad as a side, I m not a salad person but this is the best salad I have ever had! Service is also very good! We will definitely visit you soon! ❤️
Taniya Roy Chowdhury — Google review
Pretty good food here. Especially the appetizers. The fried calamari was extremely well done. Lightly breaded with good seasoning. The strips were nice and meaty. The sauces delicious. The ribs appetizer was very good also. Had a real kick to it, more than expected but very good. I ordered the chicken and rib combo. The rib was good like the appetizers but the chicken on the skewers were just ok. They were grilled and there was some sauce they put on it after it was grilled. The rice was fragrant and cooked perfectly. Over all very good experience.
Yu-Hsien Ho — Google review
Out of all the food places that my friends recommended to me, this one was by far the best restaurant I've had the pleasure of visiting. The weather was perfect for outdoor seating, and we were seated within only 20 minutes of waiting for a table of two. We ordered the Poke Tacos as appetizers. It was pretty good, maybe a bit pricey for how many tacos we got, but the guacamole hit the spot. For entrees, my partner got the Hurricane Chicken and I got the Ribs & Chicken plate. It was probably the best food we've had during our whole trip to San Diego. The ribs fell off easily from the bone, and we loved the slaw and macaroni salad that came with the plates. The view was also beautiful! Perfection, no notes. This place is a must-see.
Pam G — Google review
This was my first time at this Dukes. I’ve ate at a different restaurant in Hawaii. It’s been quite a while since I’ve taken one in, but they did not disappoint. I went with the fish and chips, others had the macadamia nut hummus, and the Kalua pork sandwich. Everybody really loved their meals, the waiter was very good and attentive. We sat inside, but the popular places to be outside where you’re next to the water you may need to make reservations for that.
Scot Meeker — Google review
Duke's restaurant in La Jolla is a must-visit in San Diego. The combination of delectable food and breathtaking views makes it a standout spot. I highly recommend trying the Hula Pie for dessert – an absolute delight that will leave you thanking me later. Overall, a fantastic dining experience deserving of five stars.
Angel Tineo — Google review
Chose this place out of all the restaurants near La Jolla cove and loved it! Got the coconut shrimp, mango bbq chicken salad, steak&fries, and sautéed fish. Everything was perfect, the portion, taste, and the service. Glad I got the fish dish from our server Jake’s recommendation.
goim kim — Google review
One of the most picturesque restaurants in this part of La Jolla. The view from the tables next to the edge of the glass are well worth a reservation for a date night. That being said, if you want it, either you had best make your reservation for the first seating and be there right as they open. I missed our 11AM brunch reservation by 10 minutes looking for parking, and the 3 tables that had an ideal view were gone. Meal wise, the catch of the day is a pretty solid choice. Crispy, had a mild acidity from the vegetables, just a simple well-executed dish. I'd highly recommend the lavender pina colada, though be warned. It's a deceptively easy-to-drink cocktail and it can hit you after the 3rd one.
B. Li — Google review
We really enjoyed our dinner at Dukes. The food was good but the dessert pie was unbelievable delicious. The coconut drink was amazing too. Staff was super nice as well. I recommend making reservations ahead and ask for the table on the patio by the rail. The views are breathtaking.
Dan Nguyen — Google review
Duke's is a great place to grab some good food with great views! They have a lower and upper level where you can actually sit on an outdoor patio overlooking the beautiful La Jolla cove. Their menu is Hawaiian inspired and so delicious! This was our first stop when we arrived in La Jolla for just a quick bite and it did not disappoint. We shared the Black Bean Nachos and Fish Tacos, which ended up being just enough food for 2 people who weren't super hungry. They also had a 'Duke's Blonde' beer on tap that is brewed by the ever famous Stone Brewing, specifically for Duke's, and it's the only place you're able to try it, so I definitely recommend ordering a glass when you're there - so refreshing!
Victoria Olivares — Google review
WOW, the food was amazing. Really good food. Staff was really nice and recommended dishes. Highly recommend making reservations and request a table on the patio by the glass ledge with the ocean view! Recommend calamari and crab wontons. Parking is located next to the restaurant. It’s $40 to park your vehicle. Get there early parking is limited.
mario barrios — Google review
If you visit La Jolla, this is a must to visit place. The food was absolutely delicious and the ambiance was great. I had no complaints whatsoever👌 If you are visiting Cali and specifically SD, you probably guess that it's pricey. So, still it's a friendly warning that this is an expensive restaurant.
Sergey Butenco — Google review
Awesome food, great views, super nice people! The chef special halibut was super delicious, highly recommend! The other fishes were super good as well, calamari was on the thicker side, very nicely cooked! The chowder was a little salty for our taste! I also do recommend reserving and asking for a table on the edge for the best views People: super nice Price: rather expensive but worth the cost Seating: indoor, outdoor, booth and tables Cleanness: very clean Food: great Menu diversity: mostly seafood Noise level: pretty laud on the balcony Lightning : ambient Parking: few parking garages and valets around
Omid S. — Google review
Fun place and good food. It’s a great modern American cuisine that takes inspiration from Mexican and Thai/Malaysian food. We loved every dish we had. Nachos, seafood hotpot, and the dukes special fish plate. Every dish had a bit of a unique flavor and was full of umami. The fish was cooked perfectly with a nice crust and a light sauce. The rice was flavorful and complemented the fish nicely. Great place to come for a nice dinner.
Ahmed Hussain Jaffery — Google review
Our first time visiting Duke's and we had a great time. A nice appetizer in the Korean Sticky Ribs. The mahi-mahi was cooked perfectly and had great flavor with the macadamia encrusted preparation. We finished with the Hula Pie. Pictured is the before and after. We look forward to returning.
Eric Ferson — Google review
The pork taco was crispy, fresh and delicious. It would taste better if it wasn't so salty. The coconut shrimp is delicious and deserves high marks. Hula Pie is a delicious ice cream pie, fantastic! Seafood Hot Pot is a bit like the green curry paella in Thai cuisine. The fish, shrimp and half crayfish inside are very fresh, and the taste when combined with coconut milk is quite special. If you like a lighter taste, you can try it. The fried fish is average, maybe the steak would be better.
Emily TONG — Google review
Highly recommend Duke’s La Jolla! My whole family loved it and everything was amazing: the atmosphere, service and food. We had Poke Tacos, Mac Nut and Herb Crusted Fresh Fish, Cheeseburger Kids meals and of course Hula Pie! Our server, Sean was great! Thanks for the awesome service, we can’t wait to dine here again soon.
Ashley D — Google review
This place is where you need to be if you’re at La Jolla. Food, service and the atmosphere are 10/10. I got the avocado toast and my husband got a burger. I wanted a latte or coffee with almond milk but the server was super nice. He suggested to go next door to get coffee while my food is getting ready. No one does that ever and I really appreciate it that. This is our second time there and it will be our spot. We also got a killer seats outside, they will work with you. Their drinks are amazing, we got the lemonade vodka, margarita slushy and mule.
Vivian Phillips — Google review
1216 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037, USAhttp://www.dukeslajolla.com/(858) 454-5888Duke's La Jolla reservations

4El Pescador Fish Market

4.6
(2449)
4.5
(944)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Seafood market
El Pescador Fish Market is a casual, well-rounded seafood market with local sources that offers just-caught cuts to-go or prepared on sandwiches, tacos, and salads. The market has a chalkboard menu with daily specials, as well as case of seafood items such as sashimi platters, ceviches, salads, and more. You can also find house made fish soups at El Pescador.
An absolute delicious meal! So fresh and so flavorful. There is an incredible variety of choices to pick from. The El Pescador salad that featured smoked salmon, crab and shrimp was pretty amazing!! And the other classic meal we tried was the sea bass with rice and veggies, the fish was cooked to perfection!
Anna — Google review
The inside is not, but can be a little loud/overwhelming for me (because of anxiety) so the outside seating area was perfect and very cozy! The food was fantastic. The quality was great and it was cooked perfectly. I especially reconnect the squid steak, octopus, and scallops. My boyfriend loved the clam chowder too. The staff is very friendly and patient. Overall probably the best place I've been to in the last 3-5 years. It can feel a little expensive at first, but I thought the price was very justifiable and the food was very worth it. Would be perfect for a casual and relaxed first date.
varvara osipycheva — Google review
Scored parking behind this market/restaurant, heading down Pearl, just west of Draper. Proper. We came in search of fish tacos and we would not leave until we tasted them in our pie holes. I demanded local fish so we were recommended sea bass and yellowtail. The sea bass was phenomenal but the yellow tail lacked flavor and is the reason why they got four stars. Otherwise everything was a five-star experience from start to finish. I'm thinking just a little bit of salt or pepper could have saved the day.
Saif — Google review
So good. Sautéed clams were divine—sumptuous and full of rich fresh flavors. I could have gone without the grilled octopus (chewy) but the west coast oysters were also delish. Line was quick and service was fast and super friendly. Absolutely would return!
Ä P — Google review
Only in La Jolla for 2 nights, dined here last night and loved it so much tempting to dine there again tonight!! Fresh beautifully prepared food. Expect perfectly grilled seafood with simple delicious sides. Or have your seafood on a hearty salad or in a sandwich. This place knows what they’re doing!! Highly recommend.
Martha Hale — Google review
🐠🌮🦪 Yummy oysters and fresh seafood are the hallmark of this fish market in San Diego. Not crazy expensive like upscale seafood spots, our damage was $120 for a party of 2. We got the Hawaiian Ahi Tuna and Tacos for entree and the shrimp-crab appetizer which all tasted delicious.
Archit Jha — Google review
Fish market doubles a seafood restaurant. This is where you can find fair-priced and fresh seafood dishes. Although, you won’t find any sophisticated seafood dishes here but grilled seafood is still amazing. I love to appreciate fresh seafood with minimal cooking done to them anyway and this place delivers great grilled seafood. Definitely a must try if you are in Mission Beach area.
Linh Pham — Google review
There's not many places in the area where you can get some really fresh fish. It's one of the best. We got seabass and opah fish 🐟 😋. Also, West Coast oysters were definitely delicious. Highly recommended for people who want some healthy and good taste food.
Andriy Isayev — Google review
Despite living nearby for years, had not until recently made the run to El Pescador. Our lost opportunity to fix now - this place has incredible selection and variety of seafood. Fresh, fresh, fresh. Perfectly cooked swordfish in homemade dressing on a soft roll. Crab cocktail excellent (and I'm typically not a huge fan); perfect heat level in the sauce. The grilled octopus cookery made us permanent devotees. Great service staff, lots of seating and ample beverage selection. Planning our next visit already!
Sean Tompkins — Google review
Was looking for an affordable place to eat after spending the day at LaJolla. El Pescador was the perfect place! Love the atmosphere and the food! Seating can be a challenge, but the food is worth it! I got the clam chowder (every bit as good as New England’s) and the Seafood “Burro of the Day” (shrimp and yellowtail). Super fresh and flavorful!
Jonathan Schroeder — Google review
We stopped by this place, right after we finished kayaking near the secret cave in La Jolla. We were hungry and craving fresh seafood!!! Service was good and fast, which was a big plus. We opted for half a dozen oysters, a local grilled sea bass plate (w/ brown rice & veggies) and a large cioppino to share. I loved their oysters and grilled sea bass. Sweet petite from the East coast were mild, briny, and not too meaty. The King tide from the west coast had a clean, crisp finish, and a plump springy texture. Both had clean after tastes, yum! The grilled local sea bass was fresh and had a delicate mild sweet flavor, they really grilled it to perfection. Unfortunately the cioppino was only decent, not only that but the large portion was quite small. Also, the amount of the seafood in it was too basic. I like that although it is a traditional fish market, it doesn't smell fishy at all. They also have a nice outdoor patio for you to enjoy the wine, SD breeze, and sunshine. Will be back for more oysters :)
Clanda Sh — Google review
It was our last day in La Jolla… decided on a leisurely lunch. Pretty unique / buzzy place. Restaurant and pick up / takeaway. I went for the swordfish.. more adventurous wife the octopus which she loved. Order at the counter delivered to the table. Friendly, helpful and chatty staff.
Dai Davies — Google review
Excellent food, excellent service! They even have a selection of Bobboi gelato to cap off the meal. Never been to San Diego in my life until this weekend, and we ate here twice. Definitely will be back!
Tyler Grant — Google review
This informal fish market has fresh fish delivered everyday. Their variety is incredible. They display everything from octopus to the ordinary like Calamari, Shrimp, and flat fish filets. They have a menu to eat in or take out. You can also buy raw fish to take home. I ordered a breaded Calamari over a salad with Avocado and blue cheese dressing. It was outstanding.
Jaclyn Underwood — Google review
I wouldn’t really say this is a classy place for a date but it is a good place if both parties are seafood lovers. After looking at the selection, I went with the thresher shark. It sounded the most interesting. They immediately took one piece out and cooked it in front of me. Service was really fast. It was a delicious sandwich. Not a huge difference in taste when comparing it to other kinds of fish. It had house marinade sauce. Current price for just the sandwich is $15. It’s a good price and as you can see the sandwich isn’t small.
Nicholas P — Google review
This is a great place to buy fish but also have fish for launch. No reservations… first come first serve. The swordfish sandwich was amazing …. Simple place with very nice people and great food. Definitely a place to come back.
Marco Ugolotti — Google review
Wouww . Congrats . In the middle of La Jolla; great fish market experience. Friendly and helpfull staff, amazing kind of selection of the best freshes fishes and sea food. We have had the best U6 Shrimps, amazing baby squads grilled and a seperate portion of sauteed. Two kind of wild Cod selections of grilled. Was amazing taste and experience to eat here . Thanx
Onur Sahin — Google review
This spot was recommended to me by a local - and it did not disappoint. You order at the front and they bring your food out to you. I got the house swordfish sandwich. So fresh and delicious - grilled fish so you really get the fresh flavor, served with greens, tomato, avocado, and tartar sauce on a soft ciabatta roll. Best fish sandwich I’ve had. The staff is friendly and helpful as well! When I come back to La Jolla, El Pescador will be first on my list!
Morgan Brickley — Google review
Recently discovered this jewel of a spot and apparently its been a classic in SD for some time. My girl likes to order their fish sandwich and never dissapoints. I tend to eat their sashimi platter and a fish plate. Great place to eat clean and very fresh.
Mike Guerrero — Google review
WOW… Now this was one of the freshest and best seafood market experiences I’ve ever had! This neighborhood place is the local fish market, loaded with tons of fresh fish, shellfish, etc and lots of amazing and fresh ingredients to make anything you want! They have some incredible looking soups/chowder too. We tried a snapper plate, a sea bass sandwich (Boregga style), and their tuna fish tacos and all were prepared to perfection with only the flavors that come from very fine and fresh seafood! The staff was very helpful and friendly and the décor is comforting and warm, especially for a “order counter” style of restaurant. Highly recommend stopping in here if you are looking for amazing seafood!
F'burg Foodie — Google review
634 Pearl St, La Jolla, CA 92037, USAhttp://www.elpescadorfishmarket.com/(858) 456-2526

5The Cottage

4.5
(2441)
4.5
(1608)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Californian restaurant
The Cottage is a restaurant located in the Village of La Jolla in Southern California. It serves classic American and Californian-influenced dishes, most notably French toast and lemon ricotta pancakes. The wait for a table can often be an hour or more for brunch, but it's definitely worth it.
This place had amazing food! We had the Stuffed French Toast, The Monterrey, the Braised Beef Hash, and the Southern California Omelet. All of it was so good. But the very best things were the scones. With the strawberry jelly. I would definitely come back.
Anna Wagner — Google review
All I can say is, wow! The Cottage is arguably one of the best brunch spots in La Jolla! I had family in town visiting from Michigan, and we dined here for Sunday breakfast. The wait times are pretty long, but the food quality exceeded our expectations. The host even remembered my name when my family and I came back to be seated at our table. Highly recommend!
F Simp — Google review
Food is excellent!! We’ve now been there three times and this is our favorite spot to go for breakfast and we usually will take guests here after a short walk to see the seals in La Jolla. The owner is very accommodating and will make greasy recommendations when asked but everything on the menu we’ve had is phenomenal. They have breakfast staples and also unique dishes. Only downside is the wait times can be long so get there early if be ready to be patient on the weekend
Levi Renninger — Google review
The good: Great flavors, the lemon ricotta pancakes and antojito benedict were a perfect way to start our day. Fruit cup for the kiddo was great (more than just some bland melon). Plenty of seating both inside and out, with the patio featuring plenty of umbrellas for that morning sun. Service was friendly and helpful with the well-sized menu. The not-so-good: Along with the rest of the area, the prices are a little steep ($65 for breakfast for two). That's really the only knock, as we enjoyed the rest of our meal. Food/drink: 9/10 Atmosphere: 9/10 Service: 9/10
Kyle Dahl — Google review
Incredible brunch in La Jolla. Recommend finding free street parking by the nearby school and enjoying brunch then a nice stroll along the beach trail. Drinks and food were tasty, recommend sharing a few dishes. We enjoyed the eggs Benedict with the Mexican touch and also the stuffed French toast with fruit added. You will have to wait a while so put your name on the list then enjoy a nice walk.
Janelle Jagnanan — Google review
Went for breakfast and the wait was for about an hour, but it was because it was raining and people wanted in doors. We asked if we could be sat on the front patio, they dried off a table and we were sat in 2 minutes. There are a lot of umbrellas covering the patio. We ordered watermelon and orange juice. They are freshly squeezed and very refreshing. Braised beef hash and the Cottage Sandwich. But the best one was the braised beef hash for sure! It had so much flavor!!!
Alejandra Riera De Jesus — Google review
I’ve been to San Diego so many times and honestly every single time we are there we always hit up our favorite place for breakfast …which is definitely THE COTTAGE !! Thank you guys for always going beyond expectations. Since the first time we been there 6 years ago to this last weekend you guys killing it with the quality of food and service. Never changed. The manger always is friendly and always spoiling our kiddos. Thank you very much guys. 5 stars all day every day !!!
Oleg Pesetskiy — Google review
We came in for late breakfast and they were very busy. It took less then 10 min to get a really nice table. The host and the whole team was friendly, helpful, great service. We enjoyed our breakfast with eggs Benedict, homemade lemon ricotta pancake. Espresso and latte are great too! We would love to come back.
Larisa Margolin — Google review
he braised beef hash was really good, but it could have used more beef. The scone and jam it came with was amazing though, as another review mentions. The stuffed french toast was good but not amazing. I still remember coming here a few years ago also for my birthday weekend. They had an event where if you sing the national anthem you would get a free dessert. I think we were the only table that did it, and the manager liked it so much he comped our meal. I wish they would have that kind of fun thing again.
Andrew Lin — Google review
The best breakfast you can find in La Jolla! All the items on the menu are delicious and you will like it! Make sure to try their Benedicts, wild mushroom omelette, and French toast! The best French toast I have ever had. Their Mexican hot chocolate is great! Not too sweet! If you are with a large party make sure to get there early, otherwise you may end up waiting for more than an hour. The service is great and they have a friendly team!
Hesam Abedini — Google review
Well worth the wait! The french toast and crab melt were amazing. Service and hospitality were equally on par! During our wait we went for a stroll around the town and visited local shops which helped the time pass quickly!
Marlene Singh — Google review
Believe the hype because The Cottage is everything you've heard it is - INCREDIBLE! We stopped here after kayaking during the week for a late brunch and were in such a rush to get there before they closed (our kayak tour took an hour longer than expected) because we had been looking forward to eating here all week! We apologized as we walked in knowing we were within 30 minutes of them closing, but the waitress that assisted us was so gracious, never once making us feel rushed. We started with the pretzel, having no idea it was a GIANT pretzel lol, but thankfully we were hungry from the calories we had just burned so we munched on the warm and yummy dough while we waited for our entrees. I ordered the Chilaquiles and my Husband ordered the Roasted Vegetable Omelet scrambled. Holy cow! Our dishes were incredible, even with coming towards closing time, the food was fresh, crisp and so tasty! We will absolutely come back as we were beyond impressed by the food and the service!
Victoria Olivares — Google review
The stuffed french toast was EXCELLENT, easily the best french toast I ever had. I sat inside which was a nice break from the sun but the seating outside is preferred. I also got the pork belly Benedict which in mg opinion wasn't good, I would give that meal a 1 star out of 5. I would come back for the French toast alone.
Lauren Hess — Google review
A good option for vegans and vegetarians in the La Jolla area. Portions were generous and the food was good overall. My French toast was a little soggy and the eggs needed salt but still a good experience. Our server was amazing and very accommodating.
Vanessa Hairston — Google review
Located very conveniently near popular Prospect Ave and walking distance from the ocean. Parking can be challenging. Food was delicious! Vegetarian friendly. The waiter helped accommodate vegetarian diet. My favorite picks were the mushroom ravioli and the lemon ricotta pancakes. My brother loved the chilaquiles.
Neesha Patel — Google review
Went there 2 days in a row on my visit to SD. Love the owner (his name is Jason) and the coffee and orange juice were delicious. I loved the crab and prosciutto benedict and the fruit bowl which came with a strawberry yogurt and would recommend adding the house granola. The salmon hash was ok but a little too much food for me. Dog friendly and you can sit indoor or outdoors. Great service!
Katherine C. — Google review
Within just two blocks of walk from Prospect Street in the upscale neighborhood of La Jolla, The Cottage restaurant is a local gem that promises a delightful culinary journey through classic American and Southern California cuisine. With a string of foodie awards under its belt, including accolades from ZAGAT, Epicurious, and San Diego’s Luxury Lifestyle Magazine, it's clear that The Cottage has earned its reputation as a dining destination worth exploring. During our visit, we indulged in some of their signature dishes, each living up to its award-winning status. The Stuffed French Toast was a standout, featuring perfectly preserved strawberries and luscious mascarpone, all served with ample butter and syrup. The freshness of the strawberries elevated the dish to new heights, leaving us craving more with each bite. For those craving a savory option, the Crabcakes Egg Benedict did not disappoint. We opted to add pork belly to the already enticing combination, resulting in a heavenly marriage of flavors. The crab was impeccably prepared, complemented by the rich hollandaise sauce and a hint of heat from the provided hot sauce. Accompanied by perfectly seasoned breakfast potatoes, every element of the dish was executed flawlessly. Aside from the exceptional food, our experience at The Cottage was further enhanced by the efficient use of technology. Utilizing the Nowait app allowed us to join the waitlist remotely, minimizing our time spent waiting for a table upon arrival. The accuracy of the app's wait time estimation ensured a stress-free dining experience, even during peak hours. To top it all off, the Mexican hot chocolate was a decadent treat that served as the perfect conclusion to our meal. Rich, creamy, and indulgent, it encapsulated the essence of comfort in every sip. In summary, The Cottage in La Jolla is more than just a restaurant; it's a culinary institution that delivers on its promise of award-winning cuisine and exceptional service. Whether you're craving a leisurely brunch or a satisfying lunch, The Cottage is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and your dining experience as a whole.
regis kwong — Google review
Came here to visit my niece in San Diego when she was studying her last year of college, so wanted to visit her while she was in this lovely and beautiful city! We stopped to have some breakfast at this place and it was really quite good place was quite clean and just really cute to come and sit and have a really really nice breakfast! We both ordered some and we quite enjoyed it! Highly recommend this place if you are in the La Jolla area of San Diego enjoy! Follow Fauzia on all of her food, travel and lifestyle adventures here in North America and beyond! You can follow us on Instagram Facebook and of course our website click in the bio and also follow us here as well! ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥
Follow Fauzia — Google review
Came here for brunch on a Saturday and the service and food were both amazing. Everyone from the hosts to the wait staff, bussers, and food runners were so friendly and made it a great experience. Definitely recommend the Stuffed French Toast, Ahi Tuna Salad, and Tangerine Mimosa. Worth the wait, will be back! 😊
Alexis Collins — Google review
Look - I LOVE breakfast, brunch, brinner. Pancakes can be served ANYTIME. What I mean to say is I have been to a large number of places for breakfast. This place reminded me of an elevated (insert generic diner name). There are pros, the service was fabulous, you can mix up your Benedicts (I got the crab and veggie). Cons - potato’s were under seasoned and a few bites were cold, I didn’t bother finishing those. Crab Benedict def had a seafood smell which I did not love. There is the smell of fresh seafood and there is the smell of canned or previously frozen seafood. This was the latter of said smells. Veggie Benedict was great! The balsamic paired well with the hollandaise. They shouldn’t have bothered with the watermelon quarter, it was mushy and ready to be compost not my breakfast. Coffee was decent, a dark and smooth roast. I almost got a cinnamon roll but I think I was forgotten about in that part of my order. So, instead of reminding or asking someone else I just paid and left to begin my day. Food was a 3 star at best, the service was 5/5. Waitress was so accommodating and checked in often but not too much. I wouldn’t go back unless someone insisted we go.
Rosie Hutchison — Google review
7702 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037, USAhttps://www.cottagelajolla.com/(858) 454-8409

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in La Jolla?

Get inspired for your trip to La Jolla with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here: