In the village of La Jolla, north of central San Diego, visit the Ellen Browning Scripps Park. Its location on the shoreline of the Pacific Ocean offers outstanding views. The park is one of the most photographed areas in San Diego.
Walk along the paved path that parallels the winding coast and look down on the shoreline and the park’s long string of beaches. Harbor seals often add themselves to the scenery.
Windswept trees on the large lawn confirm that this is a coastal setting. Access to the shoreline is provided by staircases and ramps along the pathway.
At one end is La Jolla Cove. This beach has a cave, which is always popular for exploring. Because it is sheltered from ocean waves by its rocky point, the beach is a desirable place for family visits.
Walk a short distance to Boomer Beach, which is exposed to the ocean. Here, body surfers find the wave action perfect, but the area does not have a staircase. Find easier access at Shell Beach at the other end of the sandy stretch.
Continue farther along Coast Boulevard and discover an extension into the ocean that serves as a breakwater and provides an area to view seals and sea lions. Beaches extend south along the coastline. Follow La Jolla Coast Walk Trail to find them.
Sandy shores are more limited during the area’s high tide, but the view is always incredible. Parking lots can fill up quickly, while numerous street parking spots along Coast Boulevard are free.
Spend some time at Ellen Browning Scripps Park in La Jolla. When you’re not on a beach, plan to have a meal using the park’s picnic tables and barbecues. The village’s restaurants are also nearby.
Previously known as La Jolla Park, the 5.6-acre (2.3-hectare) scenic park was named after the founder of Scripps Memorial Hospital in 1927. Drive to the site 13 miles (21 kilometers) northwest of downtown San Diego. Make sure to include watching a sunset before you leave the site.
