The Original La Jolla Walking Tour

5.0 (133 reviews) La Jolla, USA
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Duration2h - 2h 15m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 15 travelers

Overview

Discover La Jolla through the eyes of a local who is deeply involved in the community. This leisurely three-mile tour takes you from the charming Village to the breathtaking coastline, uncovering hidden gems and iconic landmarks along the way.

With more than 100 five-star reviews, this is by FAR La Jolla's highest-rated walking tour. Guests consistently praise the engaging storytelling, insider knowledge, and personalized recommendations.

As someone who holds elected leadership positions, I offer a perspective beyond guidebooks. You'll hear fascinating stories about the people and events that shaped La Jolla -— from visionary philanthropists to infamous criminals, —while also gaining insight into the issues and, concerns shaping La Jolla today.

Whether you're a local or visiting for the first time you'll gain a rich understanding of this extraordinary seaside community, along with personalized recommendations for restaurants, beaches, and activities tailored to your interests.

What's included

  • Numerous gems unknown even to locals
  • Overview of Ellen Scripps’ many contributions
  • Many fun facts
  • Background on architecture

What to expect

  1. La Jolla Recreation Center
    10m
    One of Ellen Scripps’ many gifts to La Jolla. We learn what makes it unique.
  2. Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
    5m
    We will not tour the museum, but it is the site of Ellen Scripps’ home in La Jolla, which is incorporated into the museum.
  3. Museum of History and Culture La Jolla
    5m
    The La Jolla Historical Society is housed in Wisteria Cottage, which was the residence of Ellen Scripps’ half-sister Virginia (Jenny). We won’t go in the museum, but you will learn how Wisteria Cottage has been used over the years, as well as fun facts about Jenny.
  4. St. James by-The-Sea Episcopal Church
    5m
    St. James by the Sea is a beautiful church. But what stands there now is not the original structure. Where did it go?
  5. Girard Avenue and Prospect Street
    10m
    Ground Zero La Jolla. There is a lot of history at and near this intersection, and we have the photos to prove it!
  6. The Cave Store
    5m
    The Cave Store is the second longest continuously operating enterprise in La Jolla (we’ll see the oldest too). You’ll learn why the original owner decided to build a tunnel to Sunny Jim’s cave, and who was Sunny Jim anyway?
  7. La Jolla Cove
    15m
    La Jolla Cove is the site of caves, sea lions, cormorant rookeries, and unparalleled beauty.
  8. Ellen Browning Scripps Park
    20m
    South of La Jolla Cove, this park stretches between La Jolla Cove and Children’s Pool and is one of the most beautiful parts of La Jolla.
  9. Children's Pool
    5m
    The last thing Ellen Scripps gave to La Jolla while she was still alive. Beautiful break wall and lots of seals.
  10. Coast Boulevard Park
    Pass by
    We’ll see The Wedding Bowl and the La Jolla Tide Pools

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

We meet at the curved concrete bench near the corner of Prospect and Draper. There is untimed parking on the west side of Draper about 500 feet away by the tennis courts.

End point

We meet at the curved concrete bench near the corner of Prospect and Draper. There is untimed parking on the west side of Draper about 500 feet away by the tennis courts.

Additional information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Not recommended for travelers with walking problems.
  • Not recommended for children under 10

Cancellation policy

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

Reviews

5.0 (133)
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$100.00 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
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Operated by Historic La Jolla Walking Tours · Booked through Viator
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