AAA Magazines

Day Trip: 8 things to do in La Jolla

A good example of La Jolla’s public art graces the side of this building. Photo by David Ricks

With its natural beauty, energetic vibe thanks to the UC San Diego campus, and happening restaurant and arts scene, La Jolla is tailor-made for a day trip. Check out these must-visit spots and, along the way, the Murals of La Jolla, public art commissioned throughout the beach community (get a self-guided map at muralsoflajolla.com).

Photo by David Ricks

Photo by David Ricks

1. Start the day at Harry’s Coffee Shop

You can smell the bacon and syrup even before you enter Harry’s Coffee Shop, a 60-year-old family-owned institution. For the true Harry’s experience, order a B.W. Benny (eggs Benedict and bacon atop a bacon-studded waffle; pictured).

Photo by David Ricks

Photo by David Ricks

2. Shop for books

Hunt for new and used tomes at D.G. Wills Books (pictured), which also carries dollar bargains in the driveway. Head less than a half-mile up Girard Avenue to the venerable Warwick’s, a family-owned bookshop popular for its lectures and author talks (reservations are recommended).

Photo by David Ricks

Photo by David Ricks

3. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Home to artwork by the likes of Yayoi Kusama and Mark Rothko, the La Jolla branch of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego is like a big-city museum minus the crowds. Fresh from a major renovation, it hosts a retrospective of mixed-media collage artist Alexis Smith beginning September 17. Closed Mondays–Wednesdays. Adults, $25.

Photo by David Ricks

Photo by David Ricks

4. Grab something to eat at El Pescador 

Enjoy fish tacos, sashimi, or a bowl of clam chowder at the bustling El Pescador fish market and restaurant. Or choose something from the fish cases and they’ll cook it for you on the spot, charging according to the weight of the portion. 

Photo by David Ricks

Photo by David Ricks

5. Discover Sunny Jim's Sea Cave 

Souvenirs aren't the only thing you'll find at The Cave Store. Descend the gift store’s tunnel staircase that leads to Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave. Built in 1902, the passage is believed to have been used to transport alcohol and opium during Prohibition. Better still, kayak in and among the caves with La Jolla Kayak. Staircase entry, $10 for adults. Kayak tour prices vary.

Photo by David Ricks

Photo by David Ricks

6. Cool down at Bobboi Natural Gelato

You could order something familiar like strawberry and pistachio (pictured) at Bobboi Natural Gelato or, just as good, its signature combos: Think goat cheese and grapes, or pumpkin amaretto. Made in small batches, flavors vary by the week.

Photo courtesy Birch Aquarium

Photo courtesy Birch Aquarium

7. Watch penguins at Birch Aquarium 

Weighing just 2 to 3 pounds each and standing about a foot tall, little blue penguins have taken up residence at the Birch Aquarium at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Catch them cavorting at the new Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins habitat. Adults, $24.95; reservations required.

Photo by David Ricks

Photo by David Ricks

8. Dine at Semola 

Semola incorporates ingredients from small farms and local suppliers, which means its Italian-Asian-Argentine menu changes along with the seasons. The “Chef's Table” experience features an 8-course dinner served in the kitchen-cum-living-room.

You may also like:

Follow us on Instagram

Follow @AAAAutoClubEnterprises for the latest on what to see and do.

Read more articles

You'll find more of the articles you love to read at AAA Insider.

Travel offers & deals

" "

Hot travel deals

Get the latest offers from AAA Travel’s preferred partners.

" "

Travel with AAA

See how we can help you plan, book, and save on your next vacation.

" "

Entertainment savings

Save big with AAA discounts on tickets to your next adventure.

" "

Travel with confidence

Purchase travel insurance with Allianz Global Assistance.

back to top icon