La Jolla Shores is a quaint and relaxed neighborhood surrounding a beach of the same name. Popular with locals and out-of-town visitors alike, it’s just a short drive from La Jolla Cove and perfect for a day at the beach. Among the La Jolla Shores restaurants, you’ll find deli sandwiches and pizza slices to carry to the sand and a special-occasion dinner in a dining room right on the beach.
The neighborhood is also a tight-knit community of locally owned small businesses, from surf shops to restaurants. Many of them run the outdoor activities and tours that bring people here in the first place.
La Jolla Shores Location
Contrary to what most people think, La Jolla Shores isn’t actually a part of the Village of La Jolla, which is considered our downtown area.
La Jolla Shores refers to the popular La Jolla Shores Beach, but the name also includes the business district and neighborhood surrounding the beach.
This area is a little quieter and definitely has a more laid-back vibe than the more bustling Village.
The beach runs roughly from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego, up on the bluff at the north end, down to the south end where it meets La Jolla’s sea caves. A few blocks from the beach, you’ll also find shops, restaurants, and water tours (though a couple of places to eat are actually on the beach—more on them below).
Getting There
To get to La Jolla Shores, take Torrey Pines Road to La Jolla Shores Drive. Depending on where you want to go in the Shores area, you can either head west on Avenida de la Playa (to the beach and La Jolla Shores Hotel) or stay on La Jolla Shores Drive (to get to Hotel La Jolla, some restaurants, and Birch Aquarium).
La Jolla Shores Beach
This is our favorite beach in all of San Diego.
Did you know there is also an underwater park here? Created in 1970, the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park is an ecological reserve that protects the sea life, and it’s truly one of a kind, even known to draw migrating whales. The waves are usually small, so getting into the park as a snorkeler, kayaker, or scuba diver is a breeze.
If you’d like to go to the beach but don’t want to drag the gear, Surf Diva offers beach chair, umbrella, and boogie board rentals, plus soft surfboards, hard surfboards, and SUP gear. Here is a list of Surf Diva’s rentals.
Tours and Water Sports
Many La Jolla Shores businesses offer tours, lessons, and rentals for those wishing to enjoy a day out in the Underwater Park. I’ve listed who offers what below and randomized the order so I don’t favor anyone. They’re all excellent. My personal experience is mostly with Surf Diva and Everyday California.
Surf lessonsSurf Diva • Menehune Surf • Everyday California
Surfboard and wetsuit rentalsEveryday California • Surf Diva
Stand-up paddleboardingSurf Diva (private lessons, rentals) • Everyday California (rentals)
Kayak tours and rentalsLa Jolla Kayak • Hike Bike Kayak • Bike and Kayak • Everyday California
Snorkel toursEveryday California • La Jolla Kayak • Bike and Kayak • Hike Bike Kayak
Snorkel gear rentalsBike and Kayak • Hike Bike Kayak
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Everyday California
20% off kayak and snorkeling tours, lessons, and rentals.
Use promo code at checkout.
Surfing
Looking for a lesson? Surf Diva is a great option. The knowledgeable, fun staff will help you learn the basics if it’s your first time. If you’re more experienced, they’ll help you take your performance to the next level.
In addition to private and semi-private lessons (your own group only), Surf Diva runs Women’s Weekend Surf Clinics. Kids aged 5–17 can also take a lesson or attend one of the many camps offered during school breaks. There’s even an after-school program for the very dedicated young surfer.
Kayaking the La Jolla Caves
You can book a straight kayak tour or a combo kayak and snorkeling tour. The list above shows who runs them.
Tours typically take you over to the La Jolla sea caves. It’s fantastic exercise and a great way to see sea life ranging from Garibaldi (our orange state marine fish) to the friendly and loud La Jolla sea lions.
I do recommend these tours to residents and active tourists. Some people have reported back that the experience was a trip highlight. Trust me, it’s neat.
Snorkeling
Sea life is abundant in the Underwater Park, and if you’re lucky, you might even see one of La Jolla’s famous leopard sharks.
Scuba Diving
Want to go deeper? Dive in with a scuba tour. La Jolla Shores has unparalleled access to marine life and natural aquatic beauty, including a sudden drop of roughly 500 feet into a natural underwater canyon. If you’re not an experienced diver, there are tour options, too. Most dive operators here meet you at the beach rather than keeping a storefront in the Shores, so book a guided dive online before you come.
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Kids will also love Birch Aquarium at Scripps, the public outreach arm of the famous Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
Located on the northern end of La Jolla Shores, the aquarium offers exhibits, hands-on learning experiences, live shows, live tide pools on a stunning ocean-view deck, and even a summer concert.
Children two and under get in free, and tickets cost less when you buy online instead of at the door, so it’s an affordable way to spend a few hours if you’ve got tiny companions with you.
La Jolla Shores Shopping
Don’t worry if you forgot to pack something. The casual shops of La Jolla Shores have flip-flops, swimwear, sunscreen, sweatshirts, sundresses, and more. They’ll have you looking like a San Diegan in no time.
Surf Diva
Run by identical twin sisters and La Jolla natives Izzy and Coco Tihanyi, Surf Diva is the boutique storefront for their popular surf school. They sell pretty much everything you can think of related to surfing or the beach, from surfboards (designed by Coco) and skateboards to Rainbow flip-flops and Hydro Flask water bottles. They also have plenty of “dude wear” and kids’ swimwear.
Ocean Girl
Ocean Girl is a one-stop shop for stylish female surf fashion. The staff is always happy to help, and the store has a friendly and hippie-ish vibe. This family-friendly boutique offers apparel for all ages. You can even pick up a copy of a kids’ picture book authored by the owner.
Everyday California
The owners of Everyday California, Chris Lynch and Michael Samer, started their business with a few kayaks and an old pick-up truck. Now, they’re one of the most popular gear rental and tour businesses in La Jolla.
Everyone at this grassroots company is passionate and knowledgeable, so it’s a great place to book an adventure. You can book almost anything, from stand-up paddleboarding to whale watching. The store is full of high-end surf apparel, so check it out if you’re in the market for a warm hoodie or pair of comfy shoes, too.
Neighbor-Saver Market
This independently owned supermarket is a neighborhood favorite. Quaint and small, it’s known in the Shores for its friendly staff and good prices.
Although the selection is pretty basic, it’s great for visitors with a mini-fridge to stock, and it has a nice selection of beer and wine. The real reason you’ll want to visit, though, is that you can build your own ice cream sandwich. For that reason alone, we consider this little market a can’t-miss.
La Jolla Shores Restaurants
Most of the La Jolla Shores restaurants are located on Avenida de la Playa, which is only a few blocks long. So, park your car anywhere (be mindful of the timed street parking), and your place to eat will be easy to find.
Quick biteJeffs’ Beach Burgers • Dough Momma Pizzeria
Beach picnic to goThe Cheese Shop
Ice creamScoops La Jolla
Relaxed Italian with kidsBarbarella
Dogs welcomeBarbarella • Shorehouse Kitchen
Early breakfastBrick and Bell
Breakfast all dayShorehouse Kitchen
Lunch with an ocean viewThe Shores Restaurant
Rooftop viewsAries
Special-occasion dinnerThe Marine Room
The Marine Room
The Marine Room, an AAA Four Diamond restaurant since 2013, is one of the most refined dining experiences you’ll find in San Diego. Its building sits literally in the sand, so waves crash against the windows during high tide. Here, you’ll find decadent options like Pistachio Crusted Seabass and the Filet Mignon and Maine Lobster Tail, though the menu changes with the seasons.
The restaurant has been a local institution since 1941 and is part of the private La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club, but it has its own entrance and is open to the public. It serves dinner only. On select dates, it holds High Tide Dinners during the highest tides, and The Lounge is a good place for a drink and a few light bites at sunset.
Address: 2000 Spindrift Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037 (at La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club) · Website: marineroom.com · Reservations: OpenTable
The Shores Restaurant
The Shores Restaurant offers top-notch cuisine with fantastic views of the water. Part of the La Jolla Shores Hotel, it’s a sophisticated spot with a more casual feel than its sister restaurant, The Marine Room. Come during the day to watch the waves crash on the beach as you enjoy lunch, or visit at night for a glass of good wine and tasty appetizers at happy hour.
Dishes range from a Classic Benedict to Porcini Dusted Seabass.
Address: 8110 Camino Del Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037 (at La Jolla Shores Hotel) · Website: ljshoreshotel.com · Reservations: OpenTable
The Cheese Shop
Known for its amazing overstuffed sandwiches, this deli is perfect for a quick lunch or a to-go order to take to the beach. The Cheese Shop crafts its sandwiches with homemade, slow-roasted meats and serves them with a side of freshly made salads.
A must-try is their famous homemade flourless oatmeal cookies. They also have some fun vintage and imported candies and sodas that will bring you back a couple of decades, at least. You can also order box lunches and catering trays.
Address: 2165 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037 · Website: cheeseshoplajolla.com · Reservations: No (but you can call in an order for pick-up)
Piatti
Piatti is a charming Italian eatery in the heart of La Jolla Shores.
Everything on the mouthwatering menu is amazing, but the dipping sauce for the fresh bread is what you’ll be dreaming about for the next few nights. Top off the meal with one of their many artisan wines.
If you want to sit inside, you can see your food being made in the exhibition-style kitchen, which includes a wood-fired pizza oven, but otherwise, there’s plenty of outdoor seating on the cute covered patio.
Address: 2182 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037 · Website: lajolla.piatti.com · Reservations: OpenTable
Barbarella
Of the two Italian spots on this list, Barbarella is definitely the more relaxed and kid-friendly. Filled with an eclectic collection of art built into the architecture, it’s a fun place that has something to offer everyone.
There’s lots of outdoor seating. For dinner, the menu includes a roasted Whole Branzino, and at brunch there’s French Toast with berry compote and mascarpone.
If you’re around during October or December, make sure to stop by because they completely transform the restaurant for Halloween and the Christmas season. Dogs are very welcome, as they even have their own menu.
Address: 2171 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037 · Website: barbarellarestaurant.com · Reservations: OpenTable
Sushi Mori
Sushi Mori offers fresh fish at a very reasonable price. La Jolla locals and visitors alike appreciate this little sushi bar for both the laid-back atmosphere and the creative menu.
Some of the top recommendations are the Pink Roll (salmon and tuna) and the Popcorn Lobster Roll (spicy tuna and avocado topped with fried langostino and spicy mayo). There’s also a happy hour, and their menu page lists what’s included.
Address: 2161 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037 · Website: lajollasushimori.com · Reservations: Call (858) 551-8481
Shorehouse Kitchen
With a whole “doggie menu,” Shorehouse Kitchen is another great place to bring your pup. This relaxed morning hangout kicks up your standard American fare a notch.
Luckily, if you’re looking for a La Jolla Shores breakfast restaurant, they serve it all day, so you can still get the Salted Caramel Waffle if you roll in at 1:30 p.m. If you are feeling something a little more savory, definitely go for the LJ Burger.
Address: 2236 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037 · Website: shorehousekitchen.com · Reservations: No (they run a waitlist)
Brick and Bell
On your way to the beach bright and early? Brick and Bell opens early and is just a 5-minute walk from La Jolla Shores Beach. They have a full breakfast menu, but in La Jolla, this cafe’s name is synonymous with one thing: scones.
Brick and Bell bakes them fresh every morning, and they sometimes sell up to a thousand of them in a single day. Ask to have one of them warmed up. You won’t regret it.
It’s a counter-order spot that also has sandwiches, avocado toast, salads, and smoothies that you can take away or eat at one of their tables.
Address: 2216 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037 · Website: brickandbell.com · Reservations: No
Shore Rider
Shore Rider describes itself as “an extension of the beach,” and it’s hard to find a better title. It’s the ultimate mix of surf and turf, with burgers, chips, guac, and poke bowls. Don’t let the chill vibe fool you, though, because this is some seriously high-quality food.
Burgers include the McRider Double Burger, and there’s a kid cheeseburger on the menu, too. People also come here to sip cocktails at the bar, served by friendly staff.
Address: 2168 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037 · Website: shoreridersd.com · Reservations: No (it’s open seating, so walk in and grab a table)
Jeffs’ Beach Burgers
Jeffs’ is a grab-and-go counter a block from the sand. Go for classic burgers, fresh fries, hot dogs, and an all-day breakfast sandwich, all at reasonable prices.
Address: 2134 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037 · Website: jeffsbeachburgers.com · Reservations: No
Dough Momma Pizzeria
Dough Momma is right on Avenida de la Playa and sells New York-style slices that are easy to grab and eat on the go. The hand-tossed crust is excellent.
Address: 2152 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037 · Website: doughmommapizzeria.com · Reservations: No
The Corner Mercantile & Eatery
The Corner is a bit further from the sand than the Avenida spots, but it’s worth the walk for scratch-made food. The eatery side turns out sandwiches, bowls, and breakfast items, and the market side carries drinks, snacks, and beach essentials, so you can pick up lunch and the sunscreen you forgot in one stop.
Address: 8080 La Jolla Shores Drive, La Jolla, CA 92037 · Website: thecornerlajolla.com · Reservations: No
Caroline’s Seaside Cafe
Sometimes all you want is simple, tasty food. Caroline’s serves “California-style” food for when you’re looking for something lighter. Try the Seasonal Chopped Salad, or treat yourself to one of their fresh-baked bagels.
Whatever you decide on, you’ll get to enjoy it with a fantastic view from their (seaside) patio. Caroline’s is a daytime spot, so plan it for breakfast or lunch.
Address: 8610 Charles F. Kennel Way, La Jolla, CA 92037 · Website: carolinesseasidecafe.com · Reservations: No
Aries Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge
Aries sits on the 11th floor of Hotel La Jolla, which gives diners one of the best panoramic views in San Diego. It replaced Sea & Sky in the same space and serves Pan-Pacific coastal cuisine.
Address: 7955 La Jolla Shores Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037 (at Hotel La Jolla) · Website: arieslajolla.com · Reservations: Book on its website
Scoops La Jolla
If you have a sweet tooth, head over to Scoops for delicious ice cream. It’s Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream, made in Brooklyn, NY, with only wholesome ingredients. They even have vegan flavors made with cashew milk.
Address: 2179 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037 · Website: scoopslajolla.com · Reservations: No
La Jolla Shores Hotels
In my opinion, these hotels offer a quintessential San Diego experience and are often overlooked. La Jolla Shores has a central location with easier freeway access than many other popular tourist spots in San Diego. And two provide an opportunity to stay right on the beach.
La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club
The La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club is a private club that also runs a hotel, so anyone can book one of its 90 rooms. It’s a casual, unique beachfront experience.
Speaking of the beach, it’s private. They set up chairs and umbrellas and serve food and drinks (including adult beverages) on the sand. Guests can also reserve a beach barbecue and, from September through June, rent a fire pit and add a s’mores kit.
Hotel guests can use the club’s facilities:
- Pool
- Tennis and pickleball courts
- Nine-hole par-3 golf course
- Club Dining
- Walnut Lounge (21 and over)
It opened in 1927 as the La Jolla Beach & Yacht Club, and it’s the type of place that generations of families return to every year. They also have accommodations for larger families. It’s not fancy, but it does appeal to luxury travelers because of the unique experience.
Every guest room is being renovated in stages, with completion expected by Memorial Day 2027, and the resort stays open throughout. My review covers the rooms.
Booking: We have access to a lower rate
La Jolla Shores Hotel
La Jolla Shores Hotel and La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club are owned by the same family. They’re located right next to each other on the beach.
The main difference is that the La Jolla Shores Hotel has more rooms and feels more like a hotel. It also sets up beach chairs, towels, and umbrellas for guests on La Jolla Shores Beach, and guests can use its patio fire pits and grills, with s’mores kits for the fire pits.
There’s also a shuttle that takes guests to nearby spots, including Birch Aquarium. I suggest booking beachfront rooms with balconies or terraces for the ocean breezes.
Sunset Tip · La Jolla Shores Hotel
Whether or not you’re staying here, the grassy area between the hotel and the sand has lawn games set out, and with happy hour at The Shores Restaurant right there, it’s a pretty cool place to watch the sunset.
Hotel La Jolla, Curio Collection by Hilton
Hotel La Jolla is about a 10-minute walk from La Jolla Shores Beach. While the other two hotels are in a beachfront location, Hotel La Jolla is a good choice for Hilton Honors members, those who like a newer feel to their hotel, or peak season when beachfront San Diego hotel rates rise.
The ocean-view rooms have private balconies, and the high-floor ones have panoramic views of the La Jolla coastline. The hotel also has a small outdoor swimming pool and lounge area, and a small fitness center. Aries Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge, mentioned above, is on the 11th floor.
Usually, the best place to book is directly through Hilton for the Hilton Honors discount and other package options.
What do you like to do in La Jolla Shores?
Hi Katie,
Just a note to say a big thanks for providing information and guidance about our trip to San Diego. My mom (79 yrs old) and I stayed at the La Jolla Shores hotel and we highly recommend it. The restaurant was excellent, location perfect and pool warm enough for us cold Canadians looking for warmth. We also took your advice and drove up Hwy 101 to Torrey Pines park, Del Mar (shopping!), and Oceanview (fun people-watching spot). On Sundays in Balboa Park there is a concert – perfect for music fans.
Thanks for your help with our trip. It is now an annual Mom/Daughter trip.
Niki! I’m so glad to hear it and that you enjoyed your stay at La Jolla Shores Hotel. What a perfect spot for a mother/daughter getaway. Thanks for letting me know!