Adventure’s Calling: This Small Beach Is Ideal for Watching Sea Lions in Southern California

There are many reasons to love Southern California, but there's nothing quite like its beaches. I personally love to visit beaches like Coronado Beach and Huntington Beach, but there's one that tends to stand out above the rest—La Jolla Cove. This small beach in San Diego is scenic, ideal for snorkeling and diving, and one of our favorite places to watch sea lions play in the waves.

La Jolla Cove is a small beach. However, it's also one of the most scenic beaches in San Diego. This stretch of sand is nestled between sandstone cliffs and features beautiful blue water that is clear and easy to look into.

La Jolla Cove has plenty to offer visitors. Due to its sheltered location, the water is generally quite calm, making it the ideal location for swimming. And due to its clear, beautiful waters, La Jolla Cove is also an ideal location for snorkeling and diving. If you don't want to spend time right on the beach or in the water, Ellen Browning Scripps Park, a beautiful grassy park, is adjacent to the cove. It's here that you can have a picnic and enjoy the ocean views with a little more space to spread out.

While there is plenty to do and see at this beautiful San Diego beach, it's also one of the best places to spot seals and sea lions. Point La Jolla sits next to La Jolla Cove and is quite rocky. This is a favorite spot for sea lions resting in the sun or even mothers caring for their pups.

Late morning and early afternoon are the best times to view the sea lions at La Jolla Cove, as they love to climb onto the rocks and sunbathe in the hot sun. And it's not just the rocks where you'll spot these creatures. They also like to play on the sand or splash in the water. However, it is crucial that you give these animals their space, especially during pupping season from May to October.

No matter the time of the year you visit La Jolla Cove, it's important that you follow all signs and do not approach the sea lions. Stay at a distance of at least 50 feet, and do not try to touch or take pictures with the animals. Remember that harassing these creatures is against the law, and dogs are not allowed here.

Because of the smaller size of La Jolla Cove and the popularity of this scenic destination, it can become quite busy, and parking can be challenging. We recommend arriving early in the day or parking farther away and walking to the beach. This is a San Diego destination where a little extra planning can make your visit much more enjoyable.

Southern California has many beautiful beaches and places to explore but for wildlife, incredible natural beauty, and calm water, La Jolla Cove must be at the top of the list. It is one of the best beaches in Southern California. Here, adventure calls.

Do you agree? What are your favorite beaches in California? Let me know by filling out this nomination form. And if you want to learn more about La Jolla Cove, visit the City of San Diego official website.

If you find yourself in Northern California and want to search for seals, Ano Nuevo State Park is one of the best places to spot elephant seals in California.