The Global Paddling Community

Ocean Surf Spot: La Jolla, California

What's it like

• Breaking waves situated in an inlet between high cliffs and sea caves and public beach.
• Waves average 3-4 feet in summer / 4-5 feet in winter.
• Speed is moderate.
• Minimal shorebreak; sandy beach; residential beach access in front with limited shoreline.
• Initial launch is fairly easy with no obstacles; popular kayak launch site.
• Early the better to avoid increasing crowds at initial lauch area; few isolated spots good for surfing south of the launch towards residential area.
• Water levels at launch easy; temperatures in the mid to high 60s F.
• At lauch site, surfing great for beginners; south of the launch past the pink hotel/resort is good for advanced.

photo courtesy of pdphoto.org

The area is also famous for kayak fishing. One of the wolrd's largest kayak fishing web sites and tour operators, Jim's La Jolla Kayak Fishing Adventures, is based here.

How to get there

La Jolla is a community of San Diego. It is about 2 hours south of Los Angeles. From the North, take I-5 South; Exit La Jolla Village Drive; Go west and make a left on Torrey Pines Road; make a right on La Jolla Shores Drive; make a left on Avenieda de Playa - this road dead ends to the entrance of the boat launch on La Jolla Shores Beach. Unload kayaks on beach or entrance/boardwalk and park in surrounding neighborhood (be aware of parking restriction times).

Beginners to intermediate can surf between the pink hotel (LaJolla Beach and Tennis Club) to the south and the first life guard tower to the north. Advanced surfers should paddle beyond the breakers, heading south about 200-250 yards past the pink hotel where you will be in front of residential homes on the cliffs.

More info

The area is a protected ecological reserve.

Locals

Many kayakers, ocean distance swimmers, surfers, recreational fisherman.

Info sources

Hermogenes Torres

Nearest weather station (°C):