La Jolla is one of the most beautiful stretches of the California coast, and there's plenty to fill a weekend (or a few extra days). Here are some of our favorite spots — most are clustered right around the Cove and the Village, so you can walk between a lot of them.

Right by the Cove

La Jolla Cove & Ellen Browning Scripps Park — The heart of it all, and completely free. Grassy bluffs overlooking the water, sea lions lounging on the rocks below, and one of the best coastal walks in San Diego. Perfect for a morning stroll before the celebration.

The Children's Pool — A short walk down the coastal path, this is where the harbor seals haul out and nap on the sand. A local favorite and a great photo stop.

Sunny Jim's Sea Cave — Climb down through a shop into a genuine sea cave carved into the cliffs. Quirky, historic, and fun.

Prospect Street & Girard Avenue — The Village's main drag: galleries, boutiques, coffee, and oceanfront restaurants. Easy afternoon wandering.

La Jolla Open Aire Farmers Market — If you're around on a Sunday, this farmers market is one of the biggest in San Diego, with local food and artisans.

La Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art

Out on the water

Kayak or snorkel the Seven Sea Caves — La Jolla's Ecological Reserve is packed with marine life. Guided tours take you through the sea caves and out to snorkel with garibaldi and (sometimes) sea lions. One of the most memorable things you can do here.

A little further out (short drive)

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve — Dramatic clifftop hiking trails with sweeping ocean views. Bring water and good shoes.

Birch Aquarium at Scripps — A gorgeous little aquarium on the bluffs, great for all ages.

Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial — A short drive up for a 360-degree panorama of the coast and county.

Windansea Beach — A scenic, iconic surf beach with its famous surf shack. Great for watching the surfers and catching a sunset.