La Jolla Is An Inexpensive Road Trip Destination In Southern California That's Affordable

La Jolla is about a 20-minute drive north from San Diego and home to some of the best beaches in the world. For a taste of what La Jolla has to offer, first stop at La Jolla Shores Beach. This beach is over a mile long in length and perfect for walking along the shores or trying out one of the many adventurous activities on the water like surfing and paddleboarding. La Jolla Shores Beach is located at Camino De Oro and Calle Frescota, La Jolla, CA 92037.

The next stop is Scripps Pier, just north of La Jolla Shores Beach. Scripps Pier is located at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Not only does the pier help scientists conduct research on ocean life, but it also doubles as an iconic spot for photo opportunities. A visit to Scripps Pier makes for a great ending to a day at La Jolla Shores Beach. Scripps Pier is located at 8650 Kennel Way, La Jolla, CA 92037.

A stop to Downtown La Jolla also calls for a trip to La Jolla Cove. It is smaller compared to La Jolla Shores Beach, but the small cove carries an abundance of life. Here, you can see sea lions, seals, birds, and tide pools. La Jolla Cove is also a great place for swimming and laying out to catch some sun. La Jolla Cove is located at 1100 Coast Blvd., La Jolla, CA 92037.

If you haven’t had your fill of marine life yet, make a stop at Birch Aquarium. Located a short distance away from the Scripps Pier, the Birch Aquarium has numerous exhibits to explore. Guests can walk through the Hall of Fishes, go to a kelp tank show and get up close with eels and leopard sharks, and even get a hands-on tour of the tide pools at Tide Pool Plaza. Be sure to visit the aquarium’s new seadragon exhibit, one of the largest and most unique in the world. Tickets to the aquarium are less than $20 per person, and children under two are free. The Birch Aquarium is located at 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037.

The La Jolla Historical Society is a destination unlike any other on this list. The La Jolla Historical Society was originally created to preserve the history and local landmarks of the La Jolla area. Today, the nonprofit boasts architecture tours, annual events, and exhibits. The Wisteria Cottage Gallery is a fun and educational visit to learn more about La Jolla and its culture. The Historical Society also offers walking tours of La Jolla homes and landmarks. The La Jolla Historical Society is located at 780 Prospect Street, La Jolla, CA 92037.

A visit to the Torrey Pines State Reserve is a must when traveling to La Jolla. Torrey Pines is great for early morning hikes up to the bluffs, or for walking to the beach. Visitors can tour the park from 7:15 am until sunset every day. A hike to the top of the bluffs might even include a glimpse of whales or dolphins in the Pacific Ocean. This preserved park is family-friendly and perfect for nature lovers of all ages. Best of all, this vast landscape of scenic views is free and open to the public. Torrey Pines State Reserve is located at 12600 Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037.