Kayaking La Jolla Sea Cliffs, Caves and Cove

San Diego is known for its temperate weather, but even here, the summer and fall temperatures can become uncomfortably warm.
During a recent heatwave, my son Kai and I decided to rent a kayak and paddle from La Jolla Shores to the sea cliffs and caves along the coastline of La Jolla, one of San Diego’s most popular outdoor attractions.
Here, I will share information on how to rent a kayak or take a kayak tour from La Jolla Shores to the sea cliffs near La Jolla Cove. Here is a video from our adventure that includes some helpful information:
La Jolla Cove and Sea Cliffs Details
La Jolla Cove Coordinates | 32.850301, -117.272616 |
Activities | Kayaking, snorkeling, SCUBA diving, swimming, wildlife viewing |
Management | City of San Diego |
Information | 619-221-8899 or email SDLG@sandiego.gov |
Getting Oriented

The Cove and surrounding coastline is one of Southern California’s most scenic coastal spots. Known for its crystal-clear waters and rugged cliffs, it’s a haven for sea life and a favorite destination for swimmers, snorkelers, and kayakers.



Whether you’re walking along the coastal walk and shore, kayaking out to explore the caves, or diving into the protected marine reserve, the Cove and nearby sea cliffs offer stunning ocean views and a close-up look at seals, sea lions, and sea birds.
Our kayak trip started from La Jolla Shores, which is located just up the coast from downtown La Jolla and is a popular destination for tourists visiting San Diego, especially in the summer.

A couple of companies rent kayaks and run tours right of the beach. We rented our boat from La Jolla Kayak, which is located on the main street in downtown La Jolla shores.
Here are the two the companies that I know of that rent kayaks and offer tours from La Jolla Shores:
La Jolla Kayak
La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks
Both companies offer single and tandem kayaks for rent and guides tours of the cliffs and sea caves. If you take a tour, you can paddle into the caves, but you’re not supposed to go in if you rent a boat and aren’t with a guide.
When the surf is particularly rough in the areas, rentals and tours aren’t available as the rough seas and surf break can be dangerous.
La Jolla Wildlife

The areas surrounding La Jolla Cove is part of the state-managed Matlahuayl State Marine Reserve, and the rocky shore and surrounding cliffs create a unique habitat teeming with wildlife. Sea lions and harbor seals are among the Cove’s most iconic residents.
These charismatic animals can often be seen lounging on rocks or playfully swimming in the water just offshore. Sea lion pups, especially during their birth season in late spring, are a common sight, drawing visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of their playful antics.
The protected waters also serve as a vibrant underwater ecosystem, supporting an array of marine life. Bright orange garibaldi fish, California’s state fish, are common in the kelp forests below, along with bat rays, sea stars, and occasionally even leopard sharks, which are drawn to the warmer, shallow waters during summer.

Along the nearby sea cliffs, seabirds thrive in the rugged terrain. Brown pelicans glide majestically along the bluffs, often plunging into the ocean to catch fish, while cormorants and seagulls make their nests among the rocky ledges.
Ospreys and peregrine falcons are occasional visitors, taking advantage of the coastal winds to hunt for smaller birds and fish. The cliffs also shelter an array of smaller wildlife, including crabs and tide pool creatures like anemones and small fish, which can be observed when the tide recedes.
Exploring on Foot
A couple of weeks after our kayak trip, Kai and I returned to visit the cove on foot. The cove is located near Coast Boulevard, near Point La Jolla, and parking is available along the street, though it can be challenging to find a spot on busy weekends or during peak tourist season in the summer.
If you are looking for other places to hike in the area, check out our guides to the trails at Torrey Pines and Blacks Beach.