San Diego Beach Bonfires: Everything You Need to Know
This guide will cover everything you need to know about having a beach bonfire in San Diego.
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La Jolla Shores Beach
La Jolla Shores Beach is about 1.5 miles long, centrally located in La Jolla just North of La Jolla Cove, South of Torrey Pines, and bordering the likes of UCSD with Scripps Pier as a staple in the scenery. It is an activity-haven and popular for adults and families alike.
Beach Review
Overall Score: 5.7/10
3.5
Summary
Overall, La Jolla Shores Beach gets a score of 5.7/10. It is a nice place to visit if you're looking to be near shops and restaurants, have access to multiple water activities, want to be in on the action, and enjoy a lively beach environment. The overall rating was brought down by the limited parking, high crowds, and a lack of beach cleanliness. However, the beach received above average scores in the amenities and activities available, making it desirable for families with young kids who might want the convenience of being able to access the multiple activities and amenities this beach has to offer.
Notable Mention
Please note that there are many different areas of the beach and different factors coming into play as some areas will be more crowded than others. Overall, La Jolla Shores is a pleasant area to enjoy a beach day, and is centrally located within La Jolla.
Scale
1 - Worst Case Scenario
10 - Best Case Scenario
Continue reading below for an in-depth analysis of Coronado Beach and an understanding of each score. If you have any questions or think something should be added, feel free to comment below or send us a message via chat!
Parking
There is a decent amount of parking available when visiting La Jolla Shores. However, there are often a lot of visitors, so the parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. There is a large parking lot that is free and centrally located right by the beach in La Jolla Shores. There are frequently surfers coming and going from this lot, but it does get filled and it can get busy very easily.
There is also street parking that is available close by in the residential neighborhoods, but that can often fill up quickly as well. Additionally, street cleanings are on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month from 7am-11am. So, if you're looking to hit the beach right at 11am on one of these days in the middle of summer, that could be a good time to go to the beach for a spot.
There are also two parking lots near Caroline's Seaside Café that are on UCSD's campus. These lots are free to park in on the weekends and on public holidays, but do require payment during the week. There are stairs leading directly down to the beach from lot P002, which is neighbored by lot P003.
Overall, the parking can be challenging as it's a busy, popular area and there is only so much space. All of the available parking lots and street parking within a 5 minute walk to the beach will be filled quickly during peak times. However, there are always a lot of people coming and going, and there is additional street parking further back from the beach in the neighborhoods on the east side of La Jolla Shores Drive, which would be about a 10+ minute walk.
Rating = 4/10 - The parking is very doable, but slightly less than average due to the difficulty during peak times and inability to find close parking consistently.
Crowds
La Jolla Shores Beach is one of the most popular beaches throughout San Diego County, so it is often quite crowded, especially in the areas near the main parking lot. The beach isn't particularly wide, so there is less space to spread out as well.
The area of beach towards Scripps pier, in addition to by the beachfront houses and Caroline's Seaside Café is often less crowded and has fewer visitors than the stretch of beach by the parking lot.
Additionally, the crowds do slightly thin out as you head towards La Jolla Shores Hotel and the La Jolla Shores Beach & Tennis Club.
If you're looking to enjoy a beach day here in solitude, I'd recommend walking as far as you can from the central beach area.
Rating = 4/10 - It can be difficult to find stretches of beach that aren't crowded, especially during high tides.
Amenities
There are a lot of amenities available from bathrooms, showers, benches, picnic tables, and waterfront restaurants, in addition to more cafes, shops, and dining within a 10 minute walk from the beach. There's also a paved boardwalk going alongside a good portion of the beach.
There are also several hotels nearby, the beachfront one being La Jolla Shores Hotel. You'll find the most amenities available near this area of the beach, as it's also a closer walking distance to the shops and restaurants on Avendia De La Playa. On the other end of the beach near Scripps Pier and beach houses, the only dining is Caroline's Seaside Café.
Rating = 7/10 -There are plenty of amenities available for use within walking distance of the beach, especially near La Jolla Shores Hotel.
Safety
The beach is considered relatively safe, with lifeguards patrolling the area to ensure visitors' well-being. However, as with any natural environment, there are inherent risks, and visitors should exercise caution, especially in highly trafficked areas like the beach and ocean, and a lot of people coming and going from the area.
***Please note that the ocean is unpredictable and there can be strong currents anywhere on the beach at any time. Be sure to take necessary precautions before getting in the water and always ask a lifeguard if it is safe if you are unsure.
Rating = 6/10 - This beach is typically patrolled and has a solid lifeguard presence throughout.
Beach Cleanliness
The quality of the sand at La Jolla Shores beach is definitely different than other popular beaches in the San Diego area. Most of the sand is harder and darker in color (black in some places), instead of what you usually might expect with your typical white, plush, soft sand.
There is also quite a bit of litter that you might see throughout. With the beach heavily trafficked and most visited by families with young kids or teenagers and college kids, trash can mistakenly get left behind. You might notice more trash on this beach compared to other beaches in the San Diego area as well. Especially near the boardwalk wall or in the seaweed, there's often noticeable litter.
Despite the increase in litter and the beach not being as clean as others in the area, it is still somewhat minimal and you'll still be able to enjoy a beautiful beach day here.
Overall, there aren't typically any concerns about the cleanliness or quality of sand here.
Rating = 3.5/10 - The beach is below average in cleanliness, largely due to the central part of the beach where it is common to see pieces of trash sticking out of the sand or tangled in seaweed.
Water Quality
The Water Quality at La Jolla Shores Beach is generally the same throughout. It is generally safe to swim in the water, meaning the levels of bacteria in the water do not exceed the recommended amount. The water is tested by the City of San Diego every six days and posted on this website: County of San Diego Beach Water Quality (sdbeachinfo.com). It never hurts to check the status before going to the beach to make sure it's safe.
It is important to note that after rain, it is recommended to wait at least 72 hours before getting back in the water due to increased contaminants and sewage going in the ocean, especially near storm drains, rivers, and lagoon outlets.
Rating = 7/10 - Typically clean, unless there is a storm.
Activities
There are a lot of activities available to be enjoyed at La Jolla Shores Beach. The most popular being surfing, swimming, boogie boarding, kayaking, and SUPing. There's also volleyball nets, a playground, a park, and space for other beach games to be enjoyed. In season, people also opt to swim and snorkel with leopard sharks.
The waves are often gentler at La Jolla Shores, making it a good spot for beginner surfers. You'll typically see a lot of surfers throughout the shoreline here. Additionally, you'll often see kayaks going out from La Jolla Shores hotel, as that is a popular activity in La Jolla as well.
Rating = 8/10 - Overall, there are tons of activities available to be had, and this beach is quite the haven for water activities.
La Jolla Shores
Sleep, Eat, Play, & Relax In the Water, On The Water, or Near the Water!
This site only includes information and experiences relating to everything in, on, or near the water. When in San Diego, why not experience the beach and beautiful waterfront as much as possible!? From dining experiences to accommodation options, we have everything you need to start planning your waterfront vacation in La Jolla Shores.
Check out the best beachfront accommodation and ocean views by La Jolla Shores Beach!
See all the waterfront dining options available to you and pick where in Carlsbad you want to eat, grab drinks, and see the blue water!
Look at all the activities available in Carlsbad and enjoy the ocean by trying something new or doing your favorite activity!
Accommodation
La Jolla Shores
Between both vacation rentals and hotels, La Jolla Shores has quite a few options to stay in on the water! See below for the different waterfront options available when staying in La Jolla Shores.
Disclosure: This section features several affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. However, not all links posted are affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
Vacation Rentals
Staying in vacation rentals from sites like VRBO, Airbnb, Homestay, etc. can be a great choice in La Jolla Shores, and there are typically options available. There might be more limited choices for rentals directly on the beach or with views of the water though. If you are traveling with a big family or group of people, it could be beneficial to have the extra space of a house; a lot of them do have patios, balconies, or rooftop decks with unobstructed views of the ocean.
Hotels
La Jolla Shores Hotel - Located steps away from the soft sands of La Jolla Shores Beach, La Jolla Shores Hotel offers guests a prime oceanfront experience. Amenities include direct beach access, a pool and Jacuzzi, and on-site dining with ocean views.
La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club - Situated on a serene stretch of La Jolla Shores Beach, La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club provides exclusive access to a private beach and championship tennis facilities. Guests can enjoy oceanfront dining, a pool and Jacuzzi, and family-friendly activities such as beach bonfires and children's programs.
There are other hotels located in or near La Jolla Shores that are near shops and restaurants, but don't provide views of the ocean or beach. Check out Expedia or Hotels.com to see what else might be available.
Waterfront Dining
La Jolla Shores
La Jolla Shores has a a few waterfront dining options to choose from overlooking the ocean. See below for a list of restaurants, cafes, and more right on the water.
Disclosure: This section features several affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. However, not all links posted are affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
Oceanfront Dining
The Shores Restaurant - Situated at the La Jolla Shores Hotel, The Shores Restaurant offers ocean-view dining throughout the day. Guests can enjoy a delightful breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a romantic dinner while taking in panoramic views of the Pacific coastline.
The Marine Room - Located just south of La Jolla Shores Beach, the Marine Room offers an unparalleled dining experience with its renowned cuisine and stunning oceanfront setting. Guests can indulge in an unforgettable dinner, complete with the mesmerizing sight of waves crashing against the restaurant's windows.
Caroline's Seaside Café - Overlooking the Scripps Pier and La Jolla Shores Beach, Caroline's Seaside Café offers casual dining with a view. Open for breakfast and lunch, guests can enjoy a variety of delicious dishes while soaking in the coastal ambiance and watching the waves roll in.
There are several other restaurants and cafes located in La Jolla Shores, but I only included the ones offering views of the water. There are many places off of Avenida De La Playa in La Jolla that offer dining, but not with ocean views.
Activities & Tours
La Jolla Shores
La Jolla Shores has several activities available to do on the water or with views of the water. See below for a list of activities available near the ocean.
Disclosure: This section features several affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. However, not all links posted are affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
Ocean-Related Activities/Tours
Water Sports - Surfboards, boogie boards, SUPs, Kayaks, and more are available to rent to enjoy in the ocean. Additionally, many companies offer private and group surf lessons, so you don't have to brave the water alone if interested in catching some waves!
La Jolla Sea Cave and Kayak Tour - Explore the Seven Sea Caves on kayak, and a giant kelp forest inhabited by wildlife like otters, harbor seals, and sea lions. Use of all kayaking equipment is included; no kayaking experience is necessary. There are tours for two and single tours as well.
La Jolla Kayak and Snorkel Tour - On this two-activity tour—all gear provided—you and your crew will take turns between floating above water and snorkeling in it, hanging out with garibaldi, leopard sharks, rays, sea lions, and tons of other fascinating marine life.
Beach Yoga Session - Enjoy a relaxing yoga session on the beach where you can take in views of the Pacific and hear the sound of waves crashing throughout.
A Seaside Stroll: La Jolla's Hidden Treasures Self-Guided Tour - Join a self-guided tour through La Jolla's hidden treasures, where every step reveals a new story in this iconic coastal paradise. From secret sea caves to famous residents, this adventure offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and excitement.
Professional Beachfront Picnics - Want to have a romantic lunch or dinner? How about a group picnic with friends at sunset where everything is taken care of for you? Enjoy a luxurious picnic on the beach from one of the many companies offering this service.
Bonfires - Nothing better than enjoying a bonfire on the beach after the sun goes down to end the day! There are firepits on the beach, and there are several companies that will set everything up for you and all you'll have to do is show up.
Don't forget you can always enjoy beach games such as volleyball, spike ball, and more when at the beach!
Transportation
La Jolla Shores
The best way to get around La Jolla Shores is by car, foot, or bike. See below for more information.
Disclosure: This section features several affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. However, not all links posted are affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
The best way to get around depends on what you plan to do, where you're staying, and the time of year. During busy times such as 4th of July, there is limited parking so using your car is probably the worst way to get around, especially at peak times.
If you are flying into the San Diego airport, I recommend renting a car so that you can explore other areas too. There are many rental car companies to choose from at the airport.
Walking or biking between your vacation rental or hotel to the beach and to restaurants is a great option if you can handle it. Especially if you're staying in La Jolla Shores, everything you'd need is within easy walking distance, and that's definitely the easiest way to explore that area!
Overall, I believe it's best to have a car, as that gives you freedom to explore other areas without having to worry about public transport or lyfts/ubers. As long as you keep in mind where you are going and the parking situation, you should be fine. If exploring other areas nearby such as other parts of La Jolla, downtown, etc., you might have to pay to park if it is crowded.
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