From the Birch Aquarium to La Jolla restaurants: La Jolla is the jewel of Southern California
Sometimes called the Jewel of Southern California, La Jolla is an exquisite combination of soft sand beaches, jagged cliffs, sunshine, cultural activities, boutique streets, hotels, art galleries and more.
Just 15 minutes from downtown San Diego, La Jolla, one of the most affluent communities in the United States, combines the atmosphere of a southern European resort community with the fun of Southern California.
With its seven miles of coastline, La Jolla attracts tourists from around the world and blends trends with traditional class. From the waves crashing along the shoreline to the high-rise in the business district, expect everything in this seaside town to be top-notch.
The Birch Aquarium
Stop at the Birch Aquarium, which has inspired visitors with the wonders of the ocean for more than a century. You will enter the world of sharks, living coral reefs, seahorses and more at the Birch Aquarium, where you will interact with the exhibits through hands-on exhibits and multimedia presentations.
La Jolla Restaurants
Combine a glorious view of the Pacific Ocean and world-renowned chefs and you will find restaurants made in heaven.
And there are many wonderful La Jolla restaurants to choose from. Here are some of them:
For a nice dinner, you may want to eat at Trattoria Acqua or Georges on the cove. If you are in the mood for sushi, try Sushi on the Rock. For steaks, you can’t go wrong at Donovan’s of La Jolla. And for French cuisine Tapenade is the ideal spot on Fay Avenue.
The coast
La Jolla’s most memorable region is the area along the Pacific coast, which offers some of Southern California’s most stunning coastline for your viewing pleasure.
Take the scenic drive along North Torrey Pines Road and you’ll be in awe of views of the extraordinary caves, cliffs, beaches, and sunsets. Stop along the route and browse or shop at any of the art galleries, souvenir shops, jewelry stores, or fashion boutiques along the route.
After shopping, complete this memorable experience by dining on the Pacific Ocean at one of La Jolla’s fine restaurants along the way.
For an even more spectacular view, head to the Torrey Pines Gliderport and learn to fly, and soar above this beautiful spot.
The village
The downtown district, while small, is packed with trendy establishments that attract well-heeled visitors from around the world. Although Prospect Drive is known as “Rodeo Drive in San Diego”, Girard Avenue is the main street.
Here you will find boutiques, art galleries, salons, cafes, restaurants, shops and hotels, built in 1916.
And for a unique reading experience, stop by the Athanaeum Music and Art Library, a 100-year-old library that has an incredible selection of volumes of music and art.
The business district
Although La Jolla is primarily known for its incredible coastline, the city’s business district is not modest, to say the least. You’ll find modern shopping malls, career centers, and residences along with the world-famous Scripps Memorial Hospital & Medical Research Center. La Jolla professionals tend to be in finance, law, or technology.
Whichever way you choose, from its Mediterranean-style homes to the Birch Aquarium, to La Jolla’s trendy shops and many tempting restaurants, you’ll want to make this gem part of your vacation itinerary when in Southern California.