Swim With Leopard Sharks In Southern California For A Thrilling Summer Adventure

When summer comes upon Southern California, locals (and visitors, for that matter) take to the sea - whether to swim, surf, or wade in the waves, or to walk, play, or sunbathe on the warm sands of our stunning beaches. In San Diego, one beach is particularly popular, and not just among humans. Each summer, beachgoers are joined by scores of leopard sharks in La Jolla, California, and they are awesome to see.

La Jolla Cove is known for its gorgeous crystal blue water, pristine sandy beaches, sea caves, and abundant marine life.

The waters are calm, warm, and shallow, making it a favorite destination for families, swimmers, and kayakers… oh, and leopard sharks.

The sandy reefs in the cove are full of colorful life and not only make for incredible tide pools to explore when the tide goes out but also provide an abundant food source that attracts the sharks who feed on smaller creatures like clams, shrimp, squid, fish eggs, etc.

Thousands of leopard sharks sward to this area in the summer and stay for a couple of months, generally September. Most of them are female, making their way here not only to feed but to have their pups and allow them to grow in the warm water.

These harmless (unless provoked) sharks are recognizable - and easily spotted in the water - by their cool saddle-shaped markings that cover the length of their bodies.

One of the best ways to get out and interact with marine life in La Jolla Cove is to take a Kayak and Snorkel Tour.

An expert guide takes you kayaking to find Leopard Sharks, sea turtles, sea lions, colorful fish, and more, then anchors the kayaks so you can get right in the water for an up-close-and-personal experience!

With such shallow and clear water in the cove, locals may be able to see leopard sharks by simply wading or swimming out into the water off the shore.

If you don’t already have snorkeling gear, events like this might have you wishing you did, in which case we recommend a snorkeling set like this one, perfect for exploring our spectacular coast.

Swimming with leopard sharks in La Jolla, CA would definitely make the summer unforgettable! Have you seen these striking marine animals off the shore in SoCal? We would love to hear about your experiences. If you are looking for more ways to make the most of the summer season, be sure to take a peek at our favorite seasonal activities in Southern California.