A play off the Spanish word for “jewel,” La Jolla is a Southern California gem. Home to barking seals and a bevy of beautiful beaches, San Diego’s chicest neighborhood is the perfect place for our latest Saatva Viewing Room.
Known for its sunny and stunning coastline, once you’re all beached out, head to some of our favorite places to shop, eat, and explore in this world-famous seaside escape.
Where to shop
Saatva Viewing Room
Located inside the upscale Westfield UTC shopping center, our state-of-the-art Viewing Room will help you stay California dreamin’. Handcrafted in the US, our luxurious mattresses foster deep sleep and restful nights. Stop into our latest pressure-free space and try them for yourself. Once you find the perfect fit, we’ll hand deliver it to your home—for free.
Saatva San Diego: 4545 LaJolla Village Dr, Suite C6
Warwick’s
Celebrated as the country’s oldest family-owned and operated bookstore, Warwick’s has history—and we don’t just mean historical fiction. It has an incredible array of new and autographed books from its 150+ author events throughout the year. So, stop in for a reading or a classic beach book before hitting the sand.
Warwick’s: 7812 Girard Ave
Simple La Jolla
Steps from the coast, this small boutique specializes in Southern California clothing. Selling European cashmere and outfits handmade in the US, quality and comfort is the key to this store’s success.
Simple La Jolla: 1298 Prospect St
Blue Apparel
Blue Apparel is the place to snag a wearable souvenir. Stylish branded La Jolla hats, comfy sweatshirts, and fun kid’s shirts make for great beach attire, a gift, or a cozy way to remember your vacation.
Blue Apparel: 1237 Prospect St, Suite M
Balboa Candy
A La Jolla institution, Balboa Candy has been serving up sweets for more than 20 years. Boasting one of the largest selections of saltwater taffy in the world, they also have a variety of old-school candies and handmade fudge.
Balboa Candy: 7864 Girard Ave
Where to eat and drink
The Cottage La Jolla
This local institution has been serving La Jolla’s best breakfast and lunch from inside a cozy California cottage for more than 30 years. Stuffed French toast, chilaquiles, and Eggs Benedict are always a must-order from the massive menu.
The Cottage La Jolla: 7702 Fay Ave
Jeune et Jolie
Opened in 2018, this French eatery quickly made a name for itself, earning accolades and a Michelin star. Crafting a four-course French menu made with California produce, it’s ideal for an elegant evening out.
Jeune et Jolie: 2659 State St Suite 102
Duke’s La Jolla
Named after the Hawaiian surfing legend, this oceanside restaurant is a feast for the eyes and stomach. Choose between coconut shrimp and fish tacos as well as a killer drinks menu. Book a table for one of their themed nights, including Taco Tuesdays and Surf & Turf Thursdays.
Duke’s La Jolla: 1216 Prospect St
Hanna’s Creamery & Cafe
Inside the Westfield UTC shopping center, this sweet-tooth shop creates everything in-house, from its tiramisu to its caramel apples. After an afternoon of shopping, stop in for an iced coffee and a cookie—fresh from the oven.
Hanna’s Creamery & Cafe: 4485 La Jolla Village Dr, Suite F-13
El Pescador Fish Market
It wouldn’t be a visit to Southern California without snacking on some seafood. Opened by a local surfer in 1974, it’s been a La Jolla favorite ever since. Come here for fresh oysters, poke, ceviche, and fish burritos.
El Pescador Fish Market: 634 Pearl St
Where else to spend time
La Jolla Cove
Arguably the most iconic spot in all of La Jolla, this is the best place to see its famous sea lions and seals in their natural habitat. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a kayak or snorkel gear for an even closer look.
La Jolla Coast Walk Trail
Located just off Torrey Pines Road, this 0.6 mile has a history dating back to the 1860s. Today, it’s a stunning coastal walk with views over the Pacific Ocean and several places to stop for a swim or a picnic by its craggy cliffs.
FAQs
What is La Jolla, San Diego, known for?
Sun, fun, and sand. La Jolla has some of Southern California’s most beautiful beaches and notable wildlife.
Is it worth visiting La Jolla?
Absolutely—especially if you’re a beach bum. But on those rare cloudy days, there’s plenty of fantastic shopping and restaurants to keep you busy.
Check out our additional travel guides for advice on how to spend the day near our other Viewing Rooms:
- Washington, DC’s Logan Circle
- San Francisco’s Union Square
- West Hollywood, Los Angeles
- New York City’s Upper East Side
- Boston’s Back Bay
- Chicago’s Lincoln Park
- Dallas’s Uptown
- Charlotte’s South Park
- Portland’s Pearl District
- Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse Square
- Seattle’s University Village
