La Jolla Shores Beach
Rating
Price
Free
Duration
3-5 hours
Best Ages
Best for all ages
About
La Jolla Shores is consistently ranked as the best family beach in San Diego. The bay-like geography creates surf that is consistently gentler than the open-ocean beaches. Toddlers can wade safely while older kids bodyboard. The sandy bottom slopes gradually with no sudden drop-offs.
The Kellogg Park area at the north end is the family headquarters. Grass, shade trees, picnic tables, barbecue grills, restrooms, outdoor showers, changing facilities, and a small playground. The park connects directly to the beach.
Kayaking and snorkeling from La Jolla Shores are world-class. Outfitters on Avenida de la Playa rent tandem kayaks ($30-50 for 2 hours). The kayak trip to the sea caves is one of San Diego's signature outdoor experiences.
Parking is the single biggest challenge on summer weekends. The Kellogg Park lot fills by 9-10 AM. Free street parking on Camino Del Oro also fills early. Arrive before 9 AM. Weekdays are manageable through mid-morning.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Limited
Nursing / Changing
Limited
Kid Meals
Not Available
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Morning for calmest water and easiest parking. Summer weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Water temperature peaks in August-September (68-72 degrees).
Wait Times
None for the beach. Parking lot fills by 10-11 AM on summer weekends.
Nearby Food
The Shores Restaurant has ocean-view dining ($18-30). El Pescador Fish Market has casual seafood ($10-16). The Taco Stand in La Jolla Village (10 min drive) has the best tacos in the area ($4-6 each).
Why Kids Love It
La Jolla Shores is widely considered the best family beach in San Diego. The bay-like geography creates waves consistently gentle enough for toddlers to wade while still providing enough push for older kids to bodyboard. The sandy bottom slopes gradually, creating a long, shallow wading zone. The water is clean, the sand is wide, and lifeguards are on duty year-round.
Beyond swimming, La Jolla Shores is a launching point for kayaking and snorkeling. Kayaking from the shore to the La Jolla sea caves is one of San Diego's iconic outdoor experiences for families with kids ages 8+.
The Kellogg Park grass area at the north end provides shade, picnic tables, restrooms, outdoor showers, and a small playground. The view from the park encompasses the beach, Scripps Pier, and the La Jolla cliffs -- one of the most scenic beach settings anywhere.
Pro Tips from Parents
- The north end near Kellogg Park has the most family amenities -- restrooms, showers, grass, shade, and a playground
- Arrive before 9 AM on summer weekends for free street parking
- The waves are the gentlest on the San Diego coast, making this the safest beach for young kids
- Rent kayaks on Avenida de la Playa and paddle to the La Jolla sea caves -- one of the best family adventures in San Diego for ages 8+
- Scripps Pier is a great fishing spot (no license needed from public piers in California)
What to Bring
- Sunscreen (reapply every 2 hours)
- Beach umbrella or shade tent
- Sand toys
- Boogie boards
- Towels
- Cooler with food and water
Cost Info
Free Admission
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
$0-$30 (beach is free; parking can be free on street or $5-15 in lots; add $30-60 for kayak or boogie board rentals)
Tips to Save
- The beach is completely free.
- Free street parking on Camino Del Oro -- arrive before 9 AM on summer weekends.
- Bring your own beach gear and food.
- Free restrooms, showers, and changing facilities at the north end.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- Open 24 hours
- Monday
- Open 24 hours
- Sunday
- Open 24 hours
- Tuesday
- Open 24 hours
- Saturday
- Open 24 hours
- Thursday
- Open 24 hours
- Wednesday
- Open 24 hours
