la jolla sea caves tour san diego

Original La Jolla Kayak Cave Tour

• Sunset Original Kayak Tour
• La Jolla Coastal E-Bike Tour
• Kayak and Snorkel Tour
• Whale Watching Kayak Tour
• La Jolla Shores Snorkel Tour
• Corporate Team Building Tours
• Travel Guide

FULLY GUIDED ADVENTURE

Join us for a thrilling kayak tour of the la jolla sea caves.

Our fully guided kayak tour takes you through the Ecological Reserve and along the La Jolla Sea Caves—some of San Diego’s most famous attractions. The La Jolla Ecological Reserve and Underwater Park is a marine protected area that’s a famous destination for snorkelers, divers, and kayakers to respectfully explore. The Reserve is home to our friends— leopard sharks, Garibaldi (California’s state marine fish!), lush kelp beds, sea lions, and even the occasional pod of dolphins !

Our experienced tour guides will share fun facts and history about La Jolla, safely guide you along the sea caves, and lead you through one (ocean conditions permitting). This adventure is suitable for kayakers ages 6+, no experience necessary !

• Single kayak starting at $44 *
• Double kayak starting at $69 *

*Prices may vary based on date and time.

Departs throughout the day starting at 9 AM (weather permitting)

Ages 6+ for tandem kayak (with adult), 15+ for single kayak

Weight restrictions 450 lbs. maximum for tandem kayaks and 275 lbs. maximum for single kayaks

Total duration 90–120 minutes give or take for the whole experience

Your La Jolla kayak tour will start off at our La Jolla Kayak storefront where you will check-in with our front desk staff and get fitted with your helmet and a personal floatation device (PFD). You’ll then be introduced to your tour guide and walk to the boat launch area together (1-2 blocks). Our beach staff will greet you and match you with your paddle. Your tour guide will do a 10-15-minute paddle instruction to prepare you for maneuvering in the ocean.

• Entrance into the sea cave is dependent on weather and ocean conditions.
• You will get wet—please wear comfortable kayak gear, like, t-shirt and shorts or a bathing suit.
• Shoes are not required for the tour but please wear sandals or water shoes to walk to the beach.
• We rent wetsuits for an additional charge.
• We rent lockers to safely store your personal belongings for an additional charge.
• Don’t forget your sunscreen!

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La Jolla Kayak Tour of The 7 Caves

Kayak the la jolla sea caves.

Explore Sea Cliffs & Caves

Observe Unique Marine Life

Learn How to Kayak

Join us on our La Jolla Kayak Tour of the 7 caves, a favorite of both local San Diegans and visitors alike. Glide through the La Jolla Ecological Reserve filled with marine life , and explore the astounding sea caves and cliffs . Paddle to all seven caves, including Sunny Jim’s Cave, the Arch Cave, the Clam’s Cave, and others, for amazing close-ups of sandstone formations. On this popular La Jolla cove kayaking tour, you’ll observe sea lions, garibaldi, leopard sharks, shovelnose guitarfish and even the occasional dolphin.

Why Kayak The Seven Caves in La Jolla?

No Kayaking Experience Required! Our certified guides will start the tour with a safety orientation and paddle instructions, so you can master our “sit-on-top” kayaks on the calm waters of La Jolla.

Access To The La Jolla Sea Caves: You’ll experience a kayaking adventure you’ll never forget as you explore the otherwise inaccessible La Jolla sea caves, which only our certified tour guides are permitted to access.

Observe Marine Life You’ll see plenty of unique marine life as you paddle along the La Jolla Ecological Reserve, filled with sea lions, harbor seals, the California garibaldi, leopard sharks, and even the occasional dolphin.

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Tour details.

• What To Expect

Good To Know

What you need to know.

From $59 per kayak (depending on kayak type; single, double or triple)

Departure time

9am until 2 hours prior to sunset (latest tour leaves at approx. 5pm depending on time of year)

Availability

Monday – Sunday, all year round (weather permitting)

2 hours (90 minutes on the water)

For more information, click here to see our group tours and team building activities .

Participation requirements

All participants must be able to swim without the assistance of a personal floatation device.

– Kayak – Paddle – Life vest (with emergency whistle) – Helmet – Backrest – Waterproof map

Weight restrictions

– 275 lbs. for a single kayak – 450 lbs. for a double kayak

About your guide

– Certified guide – 1:5 ratio guide per person

What You’ll See And Do

Our certified La Jolla guides will commence the kayak tour with a safety orientation and paddle introduction, no previous kayaking experience required!

Our Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves takes place in the La Jolla Ecological Reserve, where you will explore three unique marine habitats. During your paddle over to the La Jolla sea caves, your guide will share fun and interesting facts about the marine life, sea cliffs, and caves you’ll be exploring. You will also be keeping a lookout to spot marine creatures such as sea lions, leopard sharks, and the occasional dolphin and fish species like the California garibaldi.

Kayaking in the La Jolla Ecological Reserve is the best way to explore the underwater world of marine life. The harmless leopard shark can be seen from atop the kayaks. The best time to spot them is from May to October, which is when they appear in the shallow, warm waters of La Jolla shores. Interested in a close underwater encounter? Check out our Kayak and Snorkel tour!

Our beach staff will assist with launching and retrieving the kayaks at the beginning and end of the tour.

This tour is fun for the whole family , including children 6 years and up, with swimming capabilities.

The La Jolla sea caves are only accessible when permitted by a certified tour guide on one of our La Jolla Kayak tours.

The tour is fun and educational , as our certified guides will give you interesting facts and information on the area and the La Jolla Ecological Reserve.

Our “sit-on-top” kayaks make it easy to jump in and out of the water , allowing you to enjoy closer encounters with local fish. Click here to view our snorkel gear rental , or choose our Kayak and Snorkel tour to optimize your kayak tour experience.

Our guides undergo safety training and are 100% certified . Local to the area, they are expert watermen and women with experience specific to our destination. Click here to meet our tour guides!

Sunset Kayak Tour Of The 7 Caves

Explore Sea Cliffs & Caves at Sunset

Discover the magic of a sunset tour on our La Jolla Kayak Tour of the 7 caves—a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Glide through the vibrant La Jolla Ecological Reserve, exploring stunning sea cliffs and enchanting caves. Witness sea lions, garibaldi, leopard sharks, and occasional dolphins up close, creating unforgettable memories of this renowned kayak adventure. Don’t miss the captivating sunset ambiance, making it a truly magical experience on this La Jolla cave tour.

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See what our customers say about our kayak, snorkel and bike tours.

Check Out Our Other Tours

Kayak & snorkel tour, half day bike and kayak tour, la jolla snorkeling tour, ...or choose from our rental options, board & beach.

La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks

Guided tours & rentals (858) 454-0111.

You have a choice among companies for your business. If you’re shopping for the best deal, make sure you’ve read the fine print.

We don’t charge hidden 'service fees' or charge extra for locker rental to keep your belongings safe.

Most companies limit availability at peak times for discounts like Groupon so you may find yourself unable to take advantage of the advertised discounts.

Open 7 Days a Week March 1 - September 30, 2023

9:00am-6:00pm

Winter hours vary due to weather and holidays.

Check the online calendar for your specific dates.

Please call (858)454-0111 if in doubt!

(858) 454-0111

La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks 2164 Avenida de la Playa La Jolla, CA 92037

In a single 90 minute tour you will experience southern California's surf culture, observe dozens of species of marine animals, and visit 5 different marine environments: sandy beach, rocky reefs, sea cliffs, kelp forest, and deep water canyons - each hosting it's own unique flora and fauna. Because these habitats all collide within 2 square miles, the abundance and diversity of wildlife is unparalleled anywhere on the California coast except Monterey.

Come see the Sea Lions, Leopard Sharks, Pelicans, Cormorants... and of course, the Caves!

Best of all, you don't need any experience, so join us today!

TOUR SPECIALS

Complimentary lockers - ALWAYS

Booking fees and taxes included - ALWAYS

Our prices are inclusive of fees, permits, taxes and there are never surprises like surcharges for locker rentals (all tour and rental guests are welcome to use our large (12" x 36") complimentary lockers. Optional add-ons include wetsuit rental ($10), tour accessories (eyeglass retainers, waterproof phone cases,) and tips for your guides.

CURRENT TOUR SPECIALS: (Online reservations only. Discount is applied automatically.)

Save 20% this Spring! Enter promo code "SPRINGFLING" when checking out (valid until May 31, 2024)

*If you're price shopping, please keep in mind that our competitors all add 15% or more in additional fees and charge $6 or more for locker rental. Read the fine print and you'll probably find us to be the best deal available!

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

There is a 24-hour cancellation policy for all tours.

Check-in is 1 HOUR prior to tour time.

• Team Building & Group Activities
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La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour

Kayak to the La Jolla Sea Caves – White Lady, Little Sister, Shopping Cart, Sea Surprize, Arch Cave, Sunny Jim Cave, and kayak through Clam’s Cave (entrance is dependent on tide conditions). Your tour guides are well versed in La Jolla’s wildlife and place a heavy emphasis on educating you about the ecology and conservation of our many species that you will see throughout your tour. The La Jolla Ecological Reserve is home to our California Sea Lion, Harbor Seal, Garibaldi fish, Brandt’s Cormorant, Brown Pelican, Leopard Shark, dolphin, and many, many more ! The La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour is available year-round (weather permitting) and the price includes your kayak, paddle, Personal Floatation Device (PFD), helmet, and tour guide.

Duration: 2 hours

Ages: 6+ for tandem kayaks (with Adult), 15+ for single kayak. No experience necessary!

Weight restrictions: 450 lbs max. for tandem kayaks and 250 lbs max. for single kayaks

Same day reservations can be made 858-551-9510

Kayak and Snorkel Tour

Experience the La Jolla Sea Caves above and below water!

Starting at $54

La jolla shores snorkel tour.

Dive in and swim with harmless leopard sharks!

Starting at $50

La jolla cove snorkel tour.

Experience the beautiful La Jolla Cove, one of Southern California’s favorite places to snorkel!

Starting at $55

10% off adventures with code SPRING24

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La Jolla Kayaking Tours

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Related Adventures

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Never been kayaking? No problem!

One of our experienced Everyday California tour guides will take you on an unforgettable tour of La Jolla Ecological Reserve, a Marine Protected Area that’s home to a thriving underwater ecosystem that boasts one of the highest concentrations of sea-life in all of California! Kayak through the underwater park to experience the La Jolla Sea Caves, one of San Diego’s coolest attractions. Seasons change, but we’re always running: throughout the summer months you’ll have a chance to see one of the biggest Leopard Shark gatherings in the world, and in the winter witness Gray Whales on their annual migration from Alaska to Baja California. 

Everyday California tours are suitable for almost everyone 5 years and older. No experience is needed to enjoy a La Jolla kayak tour; our guides will have you paddling around in no time. Kayak tours that involve snorkeling require a beginner level of competency in swimming. No matter which way you choose to join us, you’ll create an unforgettable lifetime experience kayaking La Jolla Shores!

Here are some additional details about our La Jolla kayaking tours:

• Our tour guides are not only experienced kayakers but also knowledgeable about the local ecosystem. They will provide fun facts and information throughout the tour, making it both fun and educational for adults and children.
• We offer both single and tandem kayak options, so you can choose to paddle solo or with a partner.
• Safety is our top priority. Our kayaks are regularly inspected and our guides are trained in water safety, first aid, and CPR.
• We provide all the necessary gear for your tour, including life jackets, paddles, and wetsuits are available to rent if needed.
• Our tours last approximately 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the sea caves and spot various marine animals.
• Tours and rentals run year-round and are dependent on weather and sea conditions.
• Private tours and group rates are available for those looking to customize their kayaking experience or plan a special event.

La Jolla Cove Sea Cave Kayak Tour

Explore the Seven Sea Caves and paddle through the La Jolla Ecological Reserve on a kayaking adventure. You’ll have the chance to see the beauty of La Jolla and the seven sea caves, watch sea lions sunbathing on the rocks, leopard sharks skimming above the sandy surface, and see our California State fish, the bright orange Garibaldi, swimming under your kayak in La Jolla Cove. On the way back you’ll have the opportunity to surf your kayak back to shore. Throughout the tour, your guides will be making sure you’re safe and having fun. No experience is required, and safety is our primary concern. Entry into the cave depends upon the ocean and weather conditions, but it is just one small part of this amazing tour. Either way, you'll feel safe have the ability to enjoy and learn about the natural beauty of La Jolla Cove! If conditions are safe we will help guide your kayak into Emerald Cave. If it's not safe to enter Emerald Cave we will still paddle out & explore La Jolla's World Famous Marine Reserve. Note: If conditions are unsafe, we will not enter Emerald Cave for your safety and the safety of our staff.

When: Everyday

Duration: 90 Minutes

Start Times: Throughout the Day

Meeting Place: Everyday California Shop. 2261 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037

Price: Starting at $64

Group Size: 20 Person Max

La Jolla Cove Kayak & Snorkel Tour

The La Jolla Ecological Reserve is one of California’s premier snorkeling locations, and our Kayak & Snorkel Tour is an awesome way to see the marine life living in La Jolla. This tour is one of our favorites, so expect an experienced guide to give you a chance to swim with La Jolla’s best: sea lions, Garibaldi, bat rays, shovel nose guitar fish, even dolphins and sea turtles if you’re lucky! You’ll kayak out into the reserve with your guides, who will lead the group to the best snorkeling spot on that day. One of your guides will drop anchor, secure your kayaks, and lead you snorkeling in the La Jolla Ecological Reserve, pointing out the marine life as you go. Guests must have a basic swimming ability, but no previous snorkeling experience is required. This tour does not enter into any of the sea caves on the Kayak and Snorkel Tour. If interested in going into the sea caves, please book our La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour.

Duration: 2 Hours

La Jolla Cove Whale Watching Kayak Tour

ONLY AVAILABLE – from December 4th to March 6th. Experience the grey whale migration from the seat of a kayak! Leaving the waters of the Arctic and heading south to the lagoons of Mexico, gray whales naturally migrate past La Jolla during the winter. This is a non-polluting, non-threatening, and intimate way to experience one of the most majestic mammals on the planet. Your guides will lead the group about two miles out from shore, where you’ll stop at the best spots to view gray whales. Along the way you’ll learn interesting facts and history about the whales, other marine life, and the La Jolla Ecological Reserve. Keep in mind gray whales are wild animals. We see a large number of them during the season but cannot guarantee a sighting, although we often see dolphins, sea lions, harbor seals, and other marine life as well!

When: December 4th to March 6th depending on sightings

Lot's of fun, even for someone who has never been in a Kayak before!

Wonderful sea cave kayak tour, a great experience, great time on the pacific, worth every penny, a must-see when you visit san diego.

Monkeycity1

La Jolla Kayak & Snorkel Tour

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La Jolla Caves Beach

La Jolla Caves Beach is tucked between La Jolla Shores beach and La Jolla Cove . This rocky sliver of beach, hidden at the bottom of the craggy ridges, attracts visitors from around the world. Unlike the nearby sand beaches that appeal to sunbathers, the draw here is the sea caves.

The caves were used by pirates for human smuggling in the 1800s, and whiskey smuggling during prohibition. The series of seven massive caves are the result of 75 million years of surf relentlessly pounding the sandstone at the base of the 200-foot high cliffs. Each cave is uniquely named.

Save on Paddle Boarding!

There’s a variety of activities included with the Go City San Diego pass such as: The San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, LEGOLAND, SeaWorld, Hiking Tours, Whale Watching, Museum Tours, Speed Boat Adventures & more!

For the most popular attractions and water-sport rentals as well as the biggest discounts, consider the All-Inclusive Pass.

Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to save an extra 5%!

Things to Do

Adventure Beyond the Beach

Named for its unusual double-sided entrance, it is the only one of the seven visible from land. You can see it from Coast Blvd and the Coast Walk Trail.

In addition, kayakers and snorkelers often see a variety of sea creatures while traveling from La Jolla Shores beach toward the caves and La Jolla Cove . Sea lions sun themselves on the nearby rocks while bright orange garibaldi fish and spotted leopard sharks dash through the clear water.

Sunny Jim Cave

The largest of the seven caves, it is accessible from land thanks to Professor Gustav Shulz. He and two workers began tunneling up through the roof, using only pickaxes and shovels in 1902. After two years of backbreaking work, they emerged above the cliffs. Once complete, he began charging admission.

There are several rumors about how the cave got its name. Some suggest the cavern was named after “Sunny Jim” Rolf, a California Governor. Another claims Frank Baum, the Wizard of Oz creator, named the cave as its outline looked like a character of the same name on a box of British cereal at the time.

Today you can access the cave via the Cave Store for a small fee. The small wood-shingled building along the coastline houses a gift shop. Descend into the cave by a set of 145 wooden steps. A viewing platform at the base allows visitors to take advantage of unique ocean views, watching the water ebb and flow, echoing throughout the cave.

At 680 feet deep, this is the second deepest sea cave along the California coast. At one time, it was two of the original seven caves. However, as the result of constant battering from tidal waters, only an arch remains between the two. It’s narrow passages and corridors attract those looking for adventure. Due to the active erosion, the area can be hazardous, and caution is needed.

Sea Surprise Cave

What looks like a small, unobtrusive little hollow in the rocks opens up into a cavern with about 80 feet of walking passages. What makes this cave unite are its orange walls. They are the result of the calcite-coated sea anemones that live in pools of water deep in the cave.

Shopping Cart Cave

If you want to see Spiny Lobsters and other bottom-hugging creatures, the west-facing Shopping Cart Cave is the best place to be from October to March. Although trapping is no longer allowed within the Protected Marine area, you may find some nearby during lobster season.

The local currents also bring lost items to this vicinity. Divers typically find a variety of items, from cameras to sunglasses strewn along the seabed.

Little Sister & White Lady Caves

A tragic event gave the White Lady Cave its name. A young lady, newlywed and on her honeymoon, was collecting seashells. She wandered into the cave and was swept out to sea when the incoming tide caught her unaware.

The shape of the opening has changed over the years. When it was named, the entrance to the cave looked very much like a woman in a gown. Little Sister, the smallest of the seven caves, is situated next to its big sister, White Lady. It’s often hard to find and best viewed on the water.

Popular Activities

How to Get There & Parking

Driving There

From I-5, you can take La Jolla Parkway to Torrey Pines Rd. Turn onto Prospect Place to access Prospect St and The Cave Store. Alternately, if you are following the coast, La Jolla Blvd runs parallel to the shoreline and takes you to Coast Blvd and Prospect Place.

Swimming, Kayaking & SUP

While you can access the beach on foot at low tide from La Jolla Shores Beach, most people get there by stand up paddle boarding, kayaking or using other water-based transportation from La Jolla Cove to get here.

Limited Free Street Parking

There is limited free street parking in the area, timed at two to three hours, depending on the street. The hotel lot across the street has pay-for parking, and kayak tours typically take about two hours. Arriving early can help ensure you can get parking and avoid the lines.

Featured Activity

Know Before You Go & Tips

What to Know

Kayaks & sup are the best way to explore the la jolla caves.

While you can walk to the La Caves at low tide from La Jolla Shores and you can access the Sunny Jim Cave from a set of stairs. The best way to explore the caves is via Kayak or SUP. So, if you want to really explore the caves make sure you can get your hands on a kayak or a SUP.

The San Diego Go Card is a great way to get a Kayak in La Jolla while saving money on other popular activities, like going to the San Diego Zoo . This pass offers a discount while coupling many activities into one price.

Gets Cold & Damp at Sunny Jim Cave

You probably won’t get soaked in Sunny Jim Cave if you go down the tunnel through the store, but it’s going to be damp and the stairs slick. Bring a sweater or light jacket and make sure you wear shoes that have a good tread and can withstand the water, as there may be puddles. There are also opportunities for geocaching.

While you can snorkel into the cave from the outside, getting into the water from the platform below the cave store is prohibited. The admission fee depends on the cave, so you’ll want to check the current rates to ensure you are not surprised when you get there.

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La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks

Review Highlights

“ My three nieces wanted to give them a lower review because they says Cyril and Dylan lies to them. ” in 15 reviews

“ Our tour guides were very helpful, took us out to a spot where all the leopard sharks congregate. ” in 21 reviews

“ Wanted to go kayaking but try something new, my sister and I came across this sea cave tour right on the ocean. ” in 25 reviews

Show more review highlights

Location & Hours

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2164 Avenida De La Playa

La Jolla, CA 92037

El Paseo Grande & Calle De La Plata

La Jolla, La Jolla Shores

Serving La Jolla Area

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About the Business

Business owner information

We pride ourselves at being the best kayak tour operator in La Jolla. We keep groups small to offer you the maximum of attention and safety you won't get anywhere else. Our guides are professional, fun-loving, and highly trained by Jennifer Kleck, the first American Level 5 Sea Kayak Coach. …

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What is the probability of the kayaks capsizing? If someone has zero upper body strength and is heavy how do they get back in?

We had no issues going out but did capsize coming back in.

Do they rent snorkeling gear? Fins too?

Yes, we do! Snorkel sets include fins and mask. We also rent wetsuits.

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Overall rating

374 reviews

Excellent customer service. Honest and friendly, nice lockers/changing areas, great guides. Very nice ratio of guests to guides- full experience and a company who knows how to do it right. Will book here again!

Fun time with a friend. The bonus is that the two (wo)man kayak saved $$ because you pay for the kayak and not the person. We had a guide paddle along side us and share historical and biological information to make it interesting and educational. When we returned, there was a crew wading in the shoreline to catch us and help us out. We saw seals, sea lions, Garibaldi, Tiger Sharks, and some other little fish. Highly recommend.

Yesterday we booked and attended our first Kayak Tour and my for kayak experience. I tried once before at a resort with a self guided experience and it didn't go so well so I thought a tour would be better....and it was soooo much better. Our tour began in La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks storefront where they have lockers to store your valuables but they lock them with zip ties. You are welcome to bring your own lock with you. After being checked in, we were issued and fitted with a helmet and life jacket. I am a big and tall guy and they were able to accommodate me with right fitting gear. Once we were outfitted we were sent down to the beach with instructions to meet by the yellow kayaks where our Guide George greeted us and had us leave our shoes in a box at their beach station. George then went over the mechanics of maneuvering a kayak and explained the different environments that we may experience. He then introduced us to our second guide Cat. George shared that one guide would always be in front and one would always be in the rear of the group. Our second guide was always a good distance ahead of us which wasn't helpful nor comfortable. Being my first time and being so tall, I felt that the back support was lower than it should be making me feel like my body was starting to lay down....not a great feeling at all. About halfway through our paddle to the furthest point out, my husband got beside me and helped me adjust the back support....very thankful for him being able to troubleshoot this for me resolving my discomfort. The second guide really should have been closer to us to help with this task. After launching, I saw one tiger shark in the shallow water. We paddled out to the caves and the ocean was calm enough that we were able to go in two kayaks at a time with a guide. This was really cool. Inside we saw two sea lions up on a ledge just chilling out. After leaving the cave, we saw bright orange fish called Garibaldi that are native to this area and indicators of a healthy eco-system according to George. We also saw and heard several other sea lions that were in the water and up on the cliff rocks. We also saw one dolphin a short distance away. We were guided to go to shore one at a time where other staff members and one of our guides was waiting to assist us in disembarking the kayak. We were escorted to a beach shower to wash off and put our shoes on then escorted back to the shop where we ended the tour and returned our helmets and life jackets. Staff members in the store were also nice and helpful. George was personable, funny and informative. Cat was informative and looked after our safety when we were near her. We recommend this company and recommend doing this tour regardless of your experience or I experience. They offer individual and tandem kayaks and can accommodate big and tall people. The experience was 90 minutes and was $69 per person.,

See all photos from Mickey B. for La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks

Been wanting to do this for the longest time and the experience was amazing and more than lived up to the expectation. The views were spectacular and we got to see dolphins swim next to us to make it extra special. Our guides Ruben and Luke were super informative, funny, attentive to everyone in the group, kept us all safe and zero casualties for five days in a row..... that was their joke lol. We had tons of fun going inside the caves with some waves was intense and super great experience. There were sea lions inside the cave swimming around us. This is a must if you come to San Diego area.

Reaching the caves.

Savanah sold me with a great deal and Victoria was an amazing guide. We learned about the 5 habitats and the marine protected areas (MPAs) and saw seals and birds and even kayaked into a cave. I'm a total lizard but even on a cool January day the water is about 62 and the intermittent paddling keeps you warm. They have lockers for your stuff, safety flotation and helmets, bathroom and changing rooms too. You will get wet, so plan and enjoy the fun! The surf back to shore was also a thrilling highlight. Thanks again to the whole team!

Had a great time all thanks to our guide Victoria and the helpful guy at the front desk. The tour was fun, safe, and exciting! Got to go into the caves, but I can see why they explain that if safety is at risk you may not be able to go in. Luckily conditions were good. Coming back the waves were strong enough to make everyone fall over and get wet, to be expected with tandem kayaks unless you're pretty skilled. Staff was right there to point us to safety and take care of the kayak. I recommend arriving 30-45 minutes before checkin to hunt for free parking, otherwise there are paid lots/parking structures nearby. I also recommend just paddling as fast as possible when coming back into shore, try and beat the waves!

Don't be afraid to ask other kayakers to take your picture

Nick and Cambria we're awesome‼ We enjoyed the professional service experience and fun day in the water. We all felt safe.

Wanted to go kayaking but try something new, my sister and I came across this sea cave tour right on the ocean. We had never kayaked on the ocean before, but we were excited to try something spontaneous and new. I called the company about 2pm, to see what time slots were available. Alex, who answered the phone was super kind and informative about what slots were open and answered all of my questions. He said their company was rated the best in terms of safety so we opted for their 420pm time slot and didn't want to look into any other company that did cave tours since we had never been kayaking on the ocean before. We made the reservations online, and signed our waivers there too. It prompted us to be at the place an hour before to assemble life jackets, helmets, and further safety instructions. We grabbed a bit before and headed to the spot. Parking was a bit of an issue since there was a lot of people going to the beach, but we found a spot on one of the side streets. We brought water bottles in case we were thirsty and had our phone, keys and wallet upon arriving. Alex and his team said it was likely that our phones and belongings would get wet and/or sink to the bottom of the ocean so most of us kept our belongings in the complimentary lockers there and they were locked with zip ties. They did have waterproof phone cases on a lanyard and lanyards for sunglasses for purchase for 16-17 bucks. I opted for one so I could take some photos out there on our adventure. We got fitted for helmets and life jackets and headed over to the designated area with folks that were part of the company. There we met our guide, Reuben, who was both comedic and chill. His personality was an 11/10 and helped ease our anxiety before going in the water. We did some stretches in the sand to help loosen our arms and legs. As more people joined the group, he went over how to paddle forward, turn, go backward,s and all the safety tips. His demo of it all in the sand was very informative and light-hearted making everyone watching have smiles on their faces. Then we were all ready to get going. Each party of 2 went in their kayak and we got a push going in. We were scared but ready! The waves weren't too bad and we paddled for our lives heading in to meet at the buoy. At this point, we made it in and we were amazed that we had gotten so far already. Reuben had packed snacks, water, a camera, and all just in case one of us felt hungry, thirsty and whatnot. He was our guide but also our friend and protector. We made frequent stops to learn about the ocean and what sea life would be in which areas. We also learned about some of the properties that were built on the cliffs and legendary stories of sea lions catapulting up to the mainland museum. We were delighted to see sea lions so close up and learn about the peregrine falcons that dive 40 ft deep into the water to hunt for fish. We also so a ton of pelicans, they were HUGE. We learned about tiger sharks but we didn't see any. To know that there were about 40 caves underwater was amazing and about 11-15 caves above water were so cool. The tide was pretty low so we couldn't explore the caves themselves because it was pretty dangerous to do so, however, our time on the sea was exciting, relaxing, and all-around enjoyable with Reuben by our side. We could really feel the workout in our arms, back, legs and core. Some of the waves were big, but with Reuben's help we made it through. We didn't even capsize once! The tour was about 90 minutes long and we would honestly do it again because of how fun it was, hoping to get Reuben once more. Every time there was a bigger wave, we were instructed to lean back so the kayak wouldn't turn over. Heading back to shore, the person in the back had to say when there was a big wave and kind of look but also tell the front person to lean back and lean into the wave in which it was rolling. We also had Reuben tell us when to lean back as well which was nice and so we rode the waves to shore without tipping over it was such a wild ride, we want to go back already!! Reuben took us to the showers to wash off and then we headed back up to the shop to get our things from the lockers and leave our life jackets/helmets. I highly recommend this spot for a kayak adventure out to sea with Reuben and to see the wonders of what the ocean beholds. A huge thank you to everyone who made our experience fun and insightful!

See all photos from Danielle G. for La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks

This review is for the paddle board rentals. I had just been to La Jolla the day before and decided to come again for some water activities only this time without any reservations. This is the last place I ended up at after some window shopping at nearby rental shops, and they had the best deal. Other stores had service charges, locker charges, 2 hour minimums etc. La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks offered a no hidden fees $20/hour paddle board rental that came with a paddle board, paddle, locker, and life vest. As someone on a time crunch, the hour worked out perfectly. If we had more time we would have loved to stay an additional hour. Upon confirming the rental, we were told to fill out a digital waiver and told to put away our things in the locker. A card was also taken to put on hold for payment. Once we had our life vests we went over the map and were given instructions on how to stay safe in the water (avoiding swimmers, sting rays, coves etc). We then carried our equipment downhill to the shore on a 5 mins walk. There was a place that everyone had left their shoes and we were also told we could hand over some things to the official equipment manager. It definitely takes a while for beginners to get out deeper since it requires constant paddling. Sitting in the paddle board and paddling is pretty easy, standing requires some more balance and practice. During our experience, one member in our group sustained a minor injury due to an unexpected wave that washed them away and resulted in them landing on their knees on the shallow rocky part of the shore. We reached out to the equipment manager for first aid and they were really helpful, they also radioed back to the shop to let them know we were dealing with this and to not charge us for the additional time. The only way this place would get better is if they had the equipment ready to go at the shore. The boards are unwieldy and require some strength to bring to and from the water. Overall, I had a great experience here and this will be my go to place for equipment rental at La Jolla.

Best tour guide by Nathan and I forgot the girls name sorry but she was amazing. Definitely learned new things and had us laughing

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Mission Bay Aquatic Center

5.0 miles away from La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks

Most affordable rentals. Paddleboards $28 for 2.5 hours. Tandem kayaks $28 for 2.5 hours. Single kayaks $21 for 2.5 hours. read more

in Paddleboarding, Surfing, Rafting/kayaking

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The Seven Caves of La Jolla

The La Jolla Caves are a magnificent set of seven caves nestled between La Jolla Cove and La Jolla Shores. Of the seven dynamic caves, only one of them is accessible by land; the other six can only be viewed by kayaking with a guide. The caves are set within a seventy-five million year old sea cliff and are all uniquely named. White Lady, Little Sister, Shopping Cart, Sea Surprize, Arch Cave, Sunny Jim’s Cave, and Clam’s Cave make up the seven caves of La Jolla. Sunny Jim’s Cave is unique in that it is the only known land accessed cave along the California shoreline.You are not allowed to enter any of the caves without an experienced tour guide, because of the possible dangers from changing tides.

The Storied Past of La Jolla Caves

Sunny Jim’s Cave got its name from the shape of its mouth; it closely resembles a cartoon character used for a brand of cereal that was common at the turn of the century. Within this exquisite cave is a set of 145 steps that go up a tunnel to a shop named the Cave Store that sells and rents snorkeling gear. The cave tunnel, carved out by Chinese immigrant laborers, is an important aspect of the cave’s history. In fact, all the caves were frequently used for smuggling Chinese and other immigrants into the United States. This was the original purpose of the tunnel leading from Sunny Jim’s Cave to La Jolla’s Coast Boulevard. These intriguing caves were also once used to smuggle illegal whisky during prohibition.

What to Expect on Your Tour

Of the seven caves, only Clam’s Cave is visible from land; it gets its name from the unusual double-sided mouth entrance. The tours through the caves are offered by a number of vendors and visitors should expect to pay around $25 per person. Before you begin the tour, your guide will go over simple kayaking dos and don’ts, and you will be provided with a helmet and a life vest. Starting from La Jolla Shores beach you will head across tranquil waters toward the La Jolla Cove and the caves. You will be delighted to see various different sea creatures along the way, such as spotted leopard sharks and bright orange garibaldi fish, as well as sea lions that rest on the surrounding rocks.

Sunny Jim’s and the Cave Store

La Jolla, CA 92037

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La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour (Single Kayak)

• 1 Single Kayak (For Avid Kayakers)
• Entry/Admission - La Jolla Cove
• Entry/Admission - La Jolla Underwater Park
• Wetsuits and Lockers
• 2222 Avenida De La Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• All guests will be getting wet so plan accordingly
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 9 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll start at 2222 Avenida De La Playa 2222 Avenida De La Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA See address & details
• 1 La Jolla Cove Stop: 5 minutes - Admission included See details
• 2 La Jolla Underwater Park Stop: 90 minutes - Admission included See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• 589jenniem 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun for all Our guide Dax was super friendly and patient. Loved the dad jokes and his fun personality. Thanks for showing us all a good time. Got to get close to sea lions and spend a little extra time in the water. Read more Written April 30, 2024
• emariev2014 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Family time fun Franky was a great guide. He was patient when my daughter and I fell off of our boat. He helped us get back on. We were able to see sea lions 🦭 Read more Written April 18, 2024
• Tourist636596 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Kayak Trip Super great tour!!! Ian was a great guide!! A little choppy water but still enjoyable! Wonderful picture opportunities with the shoreline, caves and wildlife. Read more Written April 15, 2024
• jordynj296 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles 10/10 time on the kayaks! This experience was awesome! We came on a bachelorette trip and the kayak tour was definitely a big highlight! Brody and Chance were a fantastic team and made the tour even more enjoyable! Great vibes. 10/10 would recommend. Thanks for a great time! Read more Written April 14, 2024
• 439breannak 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Cool - Unless you get sea sick easily Skip this tour if you get sea sick!!!!!!!!! I went with 3 friends and we all have sea kayaking experience but all got horribly sea sick and had to turn around to go back to shore about halfway through. Although we had a pretty bad experience on the water, everyone else in our group seemed to be fine and our experience before we got sick was pretty positive, and I can’t fault the tour company or guides for our nausea. Check-in is easy and the tour guides were really friendly and knowledgeable. I recommend renting the locker for your belongings. I pictured starting at a boat launch but you start on the beach and have to get over the waves which was kinda tough. Before we turned around we got to see baby leopard sharks! On the water, there was a lot of staying still and floating and listening to the guides talk about the ecosystem, which was interesting but the sitting still is what caused my friends and I to start getting nauseous. I’d say we’re generally prone to motion sickness, however, none of us have never had a problem getting sick kayaking before, so if you ever get motion sickness, proceed with caution. Read more Written April 10, 2024
• 715marniel 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles You have to do this ! Best day on the water Amazing day! The staff here are the best! So much fun and we even learned so much from Alex and Claire. La Jolla Sea and Cave Kayaks offer an incredible experience on the water, allowing you to have an amazing day filled with adventure and exploration. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, La Jolla Sea and Cave Kayaks offer a range of options to suit all levels of experience. So why wait? Grab a paddle, hop in a kayak, and get ready for an amazing day on the water with La Jolla Sea and Cave Kayaks! Read more Written April 6, 2024
• judybR1057XQ 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic Experience Chance and Frankie were excellent tour guides. They were knowledgeable about the natural habitat, funny and even though the waters were choppy, they found a way to allow us to see the caves, even if for just a minute. Highly recommend. Read more Written March 30, 2024
• mindysemi 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Awesome!!! A MUST DO in La Jolla! Dax and Maya were great! We had a blast. We saw sharks, seals and since the tide was low they even took us to see the tide pools! They answered all of our questions and even told jokes along the way. They amazing at helping us navigate the waves as well. Highly recommend doing this!! Read more Written March 21, 2024
• copec777 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great fun in La Jolla! Dax and Maya gave us a great tour of La Jolla. They made sure we learned as much as we could about the area and some great background anecdotes! Kayaking was very fun and they really go into all the safety details. Great fun! Would recommend!! Read more Written March 18, 2024
• ivyb795 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing! If you enjoy outdoors, marine life and water, this is a place your can't missed I you're in the area. Sublime scenery and very very fun, you'll fell in love! Read more Written March 16, 2024
• alyssac5656 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A Must Do in La Jolla My friends and I truly had a memorable time kayaking in La Jolla. During our excursion, we saw sea lions, seals, and dolphins, and learned some fun facts about the local area. Our tour guides, Nick, Ian, and Ryan, were extremely knowledgable, friendly, and helpful. The water on the day we went was a little choppy, but the guides made sure that we were all comfortable and safe. I would recommend this experience to anyone traveling to the San Diego area. Read more Written March 16, 2024
• stephmoriartey 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Dolphins and an amazing guide! Wow! Noah was an amazing guide. So knowledgeable, funny, and kind! The bottlenose dolphins put on a show and swam right under our kayaks. A truly memorable experience. Highly recommend. Read more Written March 5, 2024
• lh357 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The guides made all the difference!! Hike/Bike/Kayak was great! Getting the equipment was easy, the guides were knowledgeable, fun, and put safety first. The sea was a bit rough so we didn’t get to go into the caves, but the guides made the experience educational and fun. Read more Written February 23, 2024
• jasminc574 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Whale in The water It was our first time in California and a dream of mine to be in the Pacific Ocean. The view was stunning! Our guide Dylan was fantastic and knowledgeable! Unfortunately we couldn't go in to the caves due to wave conditions, but a WHALE came up near us and blew out which completely made up for it. 10 out 10 experience. Definitely will visit again! Read more Written February 16, 2024
• BeardedPRTraveler 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Do it again! Awesome tour! Incredible experience. The guide was attentive, kind, funny and had a wealth of knowledge about the area we were touring. Would definitely do it again. Read more Written January 15, 2024

More to explore in La Jolla

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour (Single Kayak) provided by Hike Bike Kayak San Diego

La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour (Single Kayak)

TICKET PRICES STARTING FROM

Taxes and fees will be calculated at checkout

Embark on a renowned kayak tour that offers the unique experience of navigating the La Jolla sea caves and ecological reserve. This excursion showcases a remarkable array of scenery and wildlife exclusive to San Diego. Accompanied by a proficient naturalist/biologist guide, participants have the opportunity to observe sea lions, dolphins, and the majestic Grey Whale while paddling through this captivating marine environment. Minimum age is 15 years old

Ticket Options

1 Option Available

La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour (Single Kayak) : $64

Ticket Information

• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• One per booking

What's Included

• 1 Single Kayak (For Avid Kayakers)

What's not Included

• Wetsuits and Lockers

Cancellation Policy

• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Info

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• All guests will be getting wet so plan accordingly

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7 Fantastic Spots To Go Snorkeling In San Diego

S an Diego gets plenty of recognition for its idyllic beaches and rugged coastline, but many don’t give credit for its fantastic snorkeling. 

It may come as a surprise to you that snorkeling in San Diego is one of the best ways to enjoy a beach visit. Colorful marine life, huge kelp beds, and sea caves are all waiting to be explored. And did you know that you can even snorkel with sharks in San Diego? Each summer, leopard sharks come to La Jolla to hatch their young and snorkeling is the best way to see them. Don’t worry, they are totally harmless. You should still keep your distance and never touch or disturb them in other ways.

We’ve created a comprehensive guide for eager snorkelers heading to San Diego. Most of the snorkeling spots are located in the neighborhood of La Jolla , but there are some San Diego snorkeling spots closer to downtown as well. This article is complete with the top snorkeling spots, must-do tours, and the best-rated equipment and everything else you might want to know about snorkeling in San Diego. 

Best Spots To Go Snorkeling In San Diego

La jolla cove.

La Jolla Cove is, without a doubt, San Diego’s most famed spot for snorkeling. A title it most definitely deserves.

Part of the La Jolla Underwater Park , during summer, enhanced visibility in this underwater park allows snorkelers to swim with leopard sharks and vibrant garibaldi fish. The sea lions which lounge by the rocks may even join you!

You can rest easy knowing that lifeguards are permanently stationed here, making it a safe spot to explore for confident swimmers.

You can find paid parking at the nearby La Jolla Financial Building. For those who arrive early enough, you should be able to snag free street parking for up to 2 – 3 hours. Don’t stay underwater too long or risk a hefty fine for overstaying your parking limits.

La Jolla Shores Beach

Staying in La Jolla but heading a bit further north is La Jolla Shores.

La Jolla Shores is a family-friendly beach where kids can get in on the snorkeling action thanks to calm conditions and shallow waters. 

You have the option to bring your own gear or rent some from one of the many snorkel rental spots in the neighborhood.

Easily accessed behind the Marine Room restaurant, swimmers can dive by the kelp beds and spot the sting rays that frequent the waters.

Similar to La Jolla Cove, this area tends to get busy later in the day. Start your day early and find a space at the free parking lot right on the beachfront. 

Turtle Town

There are no prizes for guessing why this spot in La Jolla’s marine sanctuary got its name. Turtle Town is home to adorable young and old sea turtles swimming alongside schools of brightly colored fish.

Known as one of San Diego’s closely guarded secrets, it’s easy to see why it’s gotten this reputation, it can be notoriously tricky to find.

Between The Marine Room restaurant and La Jolla Cove, look out for red and green kelp plants, where the turtles tend to congregate.

Due to its hard-to-reach location, this spot is best for avid snorkelers and strong swimmers. This spot isn’t recommended for little ones. 

Seven Sea Caves

Yet another La Jolla snorkeling hot spot is the Seven Sea Caves. These are located just east of La Jolla Cove and consist of seven uniquely named caves that line the coast.

Join the halibut, mackerel, and rays which spend their days swimming beside caves named Clam, Shopping Cart, and Jim.

Accessed from the same entry points as Turtle Town, this is also a popular spot for swimmers and kayakers . This spot is best explored through group tours which can guide you to the safest sites. Additionally, it’s advisable to leave the younger snorkelers at home for this one.

Devil’s Slide

Close to the Seven Sea Caves is Devil’s Slide, which is a relatively challenging place for a San Diego snorkeling experience.

Though the waters are shallow, this area sits at the base of the sea cliffs, making it difficult to reach.

Small fish, like zebra perch and anchovies, can be found along the cliffside, while sea lions and rays are also commonly spotted. With a bit of luck, snorkelers can cast their eyes on horn sharks and octopuses.

If you’re not the strongest of swimmers, Devil’s Slide may not be the safest choice. Especially as it’s not the most accessible area for lifeguards.

Mission Point Beach

We’re moving away from snorkeling in La Jolla this time and heading further south towards downtown. Cue chilled-out Mission Point Park. 

Located on Mission Bay, the beach here has some of the most pleasant waters for snorkeling in San Diego.

Its warm and calm conditions make it the perfect place to take the kids.

Often an underrated spot for a glimpse of marine life, you won’t have to worry about getting here early. There are plenty of free parking lots nearby.

Park up and take to the sea, where you’ll find kelp fish, senoritas, eels, and octopus.

Shell Beach And Boomer Beach

It’s clear by now that La Jolla is home to the majority of San Diego’s most desirable snorkeling spots. For this reason, it can be difficult to avoid the crowds which flock to the most well-known locations. 

Just north of Children’s Pool Beach are the quieter Shell and Boomer beaches. These spots have no stairs down to the shore, requiring a little climbing. But the result is a much more peaceful beach when you get to the end.

Swim out until you reach the kelp beds, where you can swim amongst friendly sea lions and countless sardines.

If luck is on your side, you may cross paths with a migrating grey whale or even see harbor seals chilling out.

Due to the challenging climb down and the rougher seas, snorkeling here is only recommended for experienced swimmers.

Snorkeling Tours In San Diego

La jolla kayak & snorkel tour.

Follow your trusted guide and kayak to La Jolla’s ecological reserve. Visit the rocky reef between Emerald Cove and Goldfish Point before hitting the sandy seas near the Marine Room.

You’ll stop off for swimming amongst sea creatures like garibaldi fish, leopard sharks, bat rays, and blue moon fish. 

All kayaking and snorkeling equipment, including masks and fins, are provided. You can even use the wetsuit after the tour finishes up and return it the following day.

This tour is suitable for children over the age of eight.

Book Your La Jolla: 2.5 Hour Kayak & Snorkel Tour Here

La Jolla Cove & Cave Snorkel Tour

If exploring underwater caves in addition to witnessing magical marine life appeals to you, this tour is right up your alley.

Starting from La Jolla Cove, your experienced leader will guide you to the best spots to see sea stars, sea cucumbers, and sea lions in the clear waters.

They’ll then direct you to the incredible rock formations and caves lying beneath the surface.

All the necessary snorkel gear is included, and you can pay an extra fee to rent a wetsuit if you’re feeling chilly.

Book Your La Jolla Cove & Cave Snorkel Tour Here

La Jolla Underwater Park

Combining kayaking and snorkeling, this excursion will take you out to the Seven Sea Caves.

Here you can enjoy a leisurely kayak through the majestic caves, most of which are only accessible by kayak or swimming. Along the way, dive in and catch a glimpse of shovel-nose guitarfish, sea turtles, and leopard sharks.

Kayaks, snorkels, and fins are all provided, and you can opt to rent a wetsuit and a storage locker for extra.

This tour is open for anyone over the age of five. 

Book Your La Jolla Underwater Park: Kayak & Snorkel Tour Here

Must-Have Snorkel Gear And Accessories

Perfect for recreational snorkelers, this durable snorkel set has a soft silicon skirt that’s comfortable and won’t irritate your skin, while still remaining fitted.

Features like splash-resistant top and anti-fog mask make this a great all-around product. It’s also available in a range of colors. 

Click Here For Speedo Unisex-Adult Adventure Swim Mask & Snorkel Set

With all the essentials in one set, this snorkel pack is ideal for avid snorkelers seeking affordable, high-quality equipment.

This set includes an anti-fog, tempered glass mask with adjustable buckles, and a snorkel designed to fit your mouth comfortably. In addition to soft fins with vented blades, and handy, quick-drying gear bag.

This is a fantastic set for beginner and advanced snorkelers.

Click Here For U.S. Divers Cozumel Mask, Snorkel, Fins & Gearbag

A brilliant find for snorkelers who enjoy hitting the water wherever they go, these travel fins are compact and easy to carry. But still with the efficient features of larger alternatives, giving a solid kick. These fins are practical and comfortable, with adjustable straps to keep your heel in place.

Suitable for both men and women, these travel-friendly flippers are a worthwhile purchase if you travel regularly.

Click Here For U.S. Divers Adult Trek Travel Fins

There you have it!

Your fool-proof guide to snorkeling in San Diego, down to the spots which require patience to reach, and the calm waters which make for a fun-filled family outing. 

Adventure-seekers can take to the sea themselves in search of rainbow-colored fish and sea lions, while knowledgeable tour guides can bring the less experienced to the perfect spot.

Grab your fins and snorkel, lets see what lies beneath the San Diego seas!

Looking for more ideas? These are the Best Beaches In San Diego or check out these popular La Jolla Kayaking Tours .

The post 7 Fantastic Spots To Go Snorkeling In San Diego appeared first on San Diego Explorer .

San Diego Travel Blog

Local insight to help you plan your next San Diego vacation.

April 25, 2024 By Chelsea Bear

San Diego’s accessibility shines in a tour by mobility scooter

Planning a trip to a new location is always exciting — especially to somewhere like San Diego, which is known for its beautiful weather, vibrant neighborhoods and countless things to do that cater to all kinds of interests.

That being said, if you’re traveling with any kind of disability there are a lot of things to consider when planning a trip, whether for work or play. I can say that from experience: I was born with a physical disability called cerebral palsy, which affects the way I walk, and I use a mobility scooter when traveling.

I absolutely love to travel and have never felt that my disability should hold me back from visiting new places or experiencing new things — and it shouldn’t hold you back, either! I’ve been to more than 10 countries outside the United States, and have visited dozens of cities domestically. Having had my fair share of positive and negative travel experiences with my mobility scooter, I’ve learned some things over the years that help each trip go a little more smoothly than the last. I also document my accessible-travel experiences on social media to help share resources with my followers or fellow disabled travelers, at @RealChelseaBear on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok. 

I had the privilege of visiting San Diego for the very first time in October 2023, and again in March 2024, and both trips were absolutely incredible! I can genuinely say that no matter what part of San Diego I was in, I was very impressed with its accessibility. Here are highlights of all the things I did while in San Diego, as well as recommendations and tips for planning a visit here while keeping accessibility in mind.

Discovering Balboa Park on a Mobility Scooter

My initial impression driving into Balboa Park for the first time was: WOW.  The buildings and monuments scattered throughout the park have extremely beautiful and intricate architecture which is so aesthetically pleasing to the eye. I was surprised to learn that the park is home to 18 museums, adding even more culture and character to the entire area. Plus, the gardens, large fountains, duck pond and overall landscaping were breathtaking. 

While at Balboa Park I went to the Mingei International Museum, which celebrates folk art from around the world. I learned a lot about folk art and viewed a lot of incredible exhibits. Right across the courtyard was The San Diego Museum of Art, which boasts an internationally renowned collection of more than 32,000 works, dating from 3000 B.C. to the present day.

Accessibility at each museum was seamless, with ramps and elevators available to help me get to each floor with my mobility scooter and enough space between the pieces of art where I never had issues with navigating around the showrooms. Beyond these two museums, there are many more throughout Balboa Park, all within a short walk or roll — including the San Diego Air & Space Museum , the San Diego Automotive Museum , the San Diego Model Railroad Museum , the Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum, and the Comic-Con Museum , to name a few. Most offer accessible tours, too!  If museums aren’t your interest, I still recommend stopping by Balboa Park at some point during your visit to San Diego. I went on three separate days and each day there were exciting things going on throughout the park, so I recommend visiting even if it’s just to walk or roll around the beautiful scenery. There are various food options, vendors selling jewelry and art, and street performers doing magic tricks or playing musical instruments. Plus, there’s a free concert every Sunday at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion.

Parking is free and there are plenty of accessible parking spaces. 

If you love waterfront views …

… then San Diego is the place to be! One of my favorite areas by far was the Embarcadero , including Seaport Village. The waterfront area extends along San Diego Bay, is easily scootable, and has so many different things to do, see and eat. There are a lot of shops and restaurants, as well as local vendors and entertainment scattered throughout. 

Beyond the incredible views of the sailboats and yachts in the bay, I was extremely impressed with the area’s dedication to accessibility. 

Whenever I came across a couple of steps to get into an establishment, there was a sign with a disability icon and arrow pointing to the nearest ramp. Figuring out an accessible entrance is sometimes the biggest battle when traveling, so I was really grateful to see how San Diego prioritized signage and accessibility in this way. Bonus points, the waterfront is only a few blocks away from San Diego’s lively downtown and Gaslamp Quarter areas, making it really easy to get from one area to another without needing to figure out transportation. 

Something I really enjoyed doing along the Embarcadero was a Harbor Tour with Flagship Cruises & Events. They had a ramp so I could easily get on the boat with my mobility scooter, and there was a tour guide who shared history and interesting facts about the area – and we got to see a lot of seals! Full disclaimer, the ship did not have an elevator so I had to walk up a flight of stairs to get to the top platform. But there’s plenty of room and seating for you and your party to fully enjoy the tour on the first floor of the boat if you’re unable to do steps. 

You can also enjoy public art and sculptures, visit the USS Midway Museum or the Maritime Museum of San Diego , or catch a concert at the new outdoor bayfront concert venue, the Rady Shell at Jacobs Park along the Embarcadero. 

Accessible beaches await

You can’t visit San Diego without seeing the Pacific Ocean , right? Well, that was at least my mindset as an East Coast native. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint. I stayed in the Mission Beach area for a few nights and saw one of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen. The sky was spewing neon pink, yellow and orange, and although I took dozens of photos, none did it justice. It’s just one of those sights you absolutely need to see in person! Not to be demanding but, add it to your bucket list. 

All jokes aside, it was really easy for me to roll along the boardwalks on my mobility scooter at Mission Beach and La Jolla Shores . There were plenty of shops, bars and restaurants that were level to the ground, so it was extremely easy for me to scoot inside, and the options for where I could go were not limited, which is something I usually run into in other cities. Both areas gave beach-town vibes but still had impressive accessibility features.

If you’d like to get onto the sand, San Diego offers free manual or power beach wheelchairs at nine popular beaches. Most of the wheelchairs are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so I recommend calling in advance or getting to the beach early to ensure availability. Three beaches in San Diego also have sand access mats, which allow you to wheel out onto the beach to really soak in the views. You can find more information about Access Trax and other accessible options here .

I was also pleasantly surprised to learn about the adaptive activities offered in San Diego. I love a little adventure when I travel, and I had the amazing experience of going on a kayak tour of the Seven Caves with Bike and Kayak Tours Inc. in La Jolla . I’ve kayaked plenty of times before, being a Floridian, but to be fully transparent I was a little intimidated to be kayaking on the Pacific Ocean, since the waves are a little more rough than the ones I’m used to. I expressed my concerns to my tour guide and they quickly adapted, allowing me to switch from a single kayak to a double kayak, with one of the other tour guides joining me on the kayak. She made the entire experience comfortable for me, helping paddle to move us along through the tour and adjusting my seat to ensure I was supported. It was a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. We saw leopard sharks through the crystal-clear waters, as well as different fish, sea turtles and harbor seals. The tour guide shared some unique facts about La Jolla Shores and the beautiful caves, and we even got to kayak inside one of the caves! The tour guides were extremely accommodating and assisted my sister in helping me navigate walking in the sand and getting in and out of the kayak as well. If you plan to go on this adventure, I recommend calling in advance to share your specific needs so they can plan accordingly before your arrival.

Living it up in the Gaslamp Quarter

I also stayed in the Gaslamp Quarter for a few nights, and it was a great central location with a lot of options only blocks apart. Accessibility-wise, the curb cuts on each corner were really smooth and easy to navigate on my mobility scooter. I was really impressed with how clean and clear the sidewalks were, too. It was really easy to get to different restaurants or entertainment options. I’m always a huge fan of walkable areas because they reduce the need to worry about transportation with a mobility scooter, so I definitely recommend this area.

With rows of restaurants and bars throughout Gaslamp Quarter, I was also delighted to see a strip of comedy clubs. I went to a comedy show at American Comedy Co. and it was a great venue. The main entrance to the theater had stairs, but they had an elevator available for me to get to the show easily. 

Something unique that I loved about this particular area was how the local MLB stadium, Petco Park , is located within the downtown area. Whether you’re catching a concert or cheering on the San Diego Padres , it’s an easily accessible venue to get to. 

Fantastic food options

Overall I was pleasantly surprised with the diverse and high-quality food scene in San Diego. One restaurant in particular, Callie , was one of the best meals I’ve had in years. The Mediterranean menu offered a variety of mouthwatering options, and the hummus was some of the best I’ve ever had.

Another great venue to check out is Liberty Public Market . Located right next to the Stone Brewing World Bistro and Gardens , which is an extensive brewery and restaurant with a delicious flight of IPAs, the public market had a lot of diverse and authentic food options to enjoy. I splurged a bit while there because there were too many good choices to choose from! I had handcrafted lobster ravioli from Pasta Design, a delicious bowl of ramen from Slurp Taiyaki & Ramen, and authentic Argentinian empanadas from Parana Empanadas. My only regret is that I didn’t get to try something from every vendor!

Try an Old Town Trolley Tour

If you’re looking for one activity that can give you a full overview of all that San Diego has to offer, the hop-on/hop-off Old Town Trolley Tours of San Diego is the way to go. Each trolley vehicle has an accessible lift for wheelchairs and mobility scooters, and you can leisurely explore the 11 stops during the tour. It brings you through Old Town , the Embarcadero, the Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy , and Balboa Park. It’s an easy way to get around and sample many different areas of San Diego.

If you’ve been needing a sign to book a trip to San Diego, let this be it! As someone with a physical disability, it’s hard to come by destinations that are so accommodating and with so much to offer. The views, the food, the people, the activities, it all speaks for itself. Thank you for coming along on my journey as I explored San Diego. I can’t wait to go back, and hope you get to visit soon!

You can find additional recommendations and things to do in San Diego at https://www.sandiego.org/explore/things-to-do.aspx .

Chelsea Bear is a content creator based in Florida who shares her experiences of living with cerebral palsy on social media with the handle @RealChelseaBear . CP impacts the way she walks, and she uses a mobility scooter part-time for long distances. She is passionate about accessible travel and documents her experiences of living with a disability by sharing educational, uplifting, and lighthearted posts that strive to share resources, celebrate inclusion, and create acceptance for people with disabilities.

Funded in part with City of San Diego Tourism Marketing District Assessment Funds