La Jolla Shores

Calle Frescota, La Jolla, California (map)

Beach Highlights

La Jolla Shores is a sandy beach about two miles north of La Jolla Cove. Also known as The Shores, this beach extends from The Marine Room, a world-class restaurant, north to Scripps Pier. The beach is at the south end of a long, almost continuous stretch of sandy beach that extends to Oceanside's Harbor Beach.

Gentle Surf Along Shore

Waves at La Jolla Shore are typically gentle, especially during the summer months. However, beware of rip currents, which can be powerful. Because of the mild surf, this shoreline is a popular spot for ocean entry scuba diving and scuba classes. The beach lies within the La Jolla Underwater Ecological Reserve, which protects prohibits fishing and removal of objects.

Beyond the shore break, the ocean floor tapers to about 80 feet where it then plunges abruptly to 2,000 feet in La Jolla Underwater Canyon.

Next to Kellogg Park and Boardwalk

Behind La Jolla Shores is a long, concrete boardwalk, lined with tall palm trees, which extends along a good portion of the beach. On the other side of the boardwalk is Kellogg Park, a large grassy area, laidened with trees, picnic tables, and a playground. A permanent life guard station is located at near south end of the park and beach.

Boat Launch and Restaurant

Also at the south end of La Jolla Shores is The Marine Room, a great place to dine while watching the surf, since the restaurant is built near the water's edge. Also, at the south end is a section of the beach where people can launch small boats. Vehicles can drive on the sand and enter their boats.

Pier and Tide Pools

At the north end of La Jolla Shores is Scripps Pier and Scripps Institute of Oceanography. Dike Rock Tide Pool is located on the north side of the pier.

Scripps Pier is a private research pier and closed to the public. with the exception of occasional public tours conducted by Scripps Institute of Oceanography. Near to and operated by Scripps Institute is Stephen Birch Aquarium, a popular attraction for families and ocean enthusiasts.

Amenities

Public restroom and showers are 100 yards north and south of the main lifeguard tower.

Regulations

Standard San Diego beach regulations apply, with the following modifications:

Beach fires

Containers for beach fires are generally provided during summer months and available on a first come, first served basis. The burning of rubbish is prohibited. Only wood, charcoal, or paper products may be used as fuel. Fuel for the fire may not exceed a height of more than twelve inches above the upper edge of the fire container. The fire must be extinguished before leaving the beach. Open beach fires outside containers are prohibited at all San Diego beaches.

Alcohol

No alcohol allowed on beach or in park.

Water Activity Zones

There are surfing and swimming zones. Check with life guard for details.

Othe:

No taking of fish or other marine animals, or artifacts.

More Details

Parking

A large parking lot is located next to the beach and park. During summer, the lot can fill up by afternoon. Parking on the street is limited.

Lifeguards

A permanent lifeguard station is located near the south end of La Jolla Shores at the end of Calle Frescota. Life guards are on duty every day from 9am until near dusk. Tide, visibility and surf conditions are posted outdoors.

Contact San Diego Lifeguard Service
2581 Quivira Court, San Diego CA 92109
Urgent Business (619) 221-8800
Business (619) 221-8899
Fax office (619) 221-8858
Fax dispatch (619) 221-8881
Weather (619) 221-8824