Coast & Sea · California

La Jolla Sea Caves

Sea caves, sea lions & a turquoise cove

TypeCoast & Sea
StateCalifornia
Best seasonSummer & early fall (calm, clear water)
How to visitFree coast; kayak tours + Sunny Jim Cave (small fee via the cave store)

Seven sandstone sea caves carved into the cliffs of La Jolla, best explored by kayak or snorkel through some of California’s clearest water — with sea lions, leopard sharks, and a protected cove ecosystem. One cave is reachable by a tunnel of 145 steps.

The shot

Paddling into a cliff cave above turquoise water.

Nearby & worth pairing

  • La Jolla Cove
  • San Diego
  • Torrey Pines
  • Birch Aquarium

Access, fees, permits, and tour availability change with the season and the managing agency (tribal park, state park, BLM, or NPS) — confirm current rules and reservations before you go, tread lightly on sacred and fragile sites, and pack out everything you bring.

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