Living a Beach Lifestyle in La Jolla, California

The coastline varies dramatically in La Jolla, California. At its northernmost limit, fortified by 300 foot sea cliffs, is Blacks. The Shores is a mile long crescent of prime sand beach favored by active beach-goers of all interests. The Cove, with its Mediterranean backdrop, is among San Diego's most sheltered swimming spots, while the reefs southward around Windansea and Birdrock are among its most exposed.

There's always something going on at La Jolla Shores Beach. The north end of the beach, better known as Scripps for the Scripps Institute of Oceanography and its landmark pier (not open to the public) is favored by intermediate surfers and bodyboarders. By day the main beach is a busy swimming area popular among families, who set up elaborate base camps on the grassy park, while the children make forays to the shallow water to boogie board. At night it's alive with the glow of beach fires and the nervous energy of young adults socializing. The south part of the coast here is largely shielded by La Jolla Bay, and is used as training grounds by scores of scuba diving students. Small boats can be launched directly into the sea from the end of Avenida De La Playa, and a block or two up the same road are shops that'll rent you a kayak, fill your scuba tank or sell you a bikini. 

Where to Retire in La Jolla and Home Prices

There are many communities within La Jolla, often with confusing names. For example The Village (of La Jolla) is the downtown, as opposed to the residential neighborhood of La Jolla Village. La Jolla (Farms), (Shores), and (Heights) are similarly named neighborhoods. A great range of active adult and 55+ communities are nearby, if not in La Jolla.
The main drawback to living in La Jolla is the expensive housing. Starter homes tend to be in the $1 million range. Fortunately there are apartments that can be had for less, either as condos or as rentals. Surrounding areas tend to be slightly less expensive, the more so as one goes away from the water.  In early 2022, the median listing price was $2.7 million, according to Realtor.com.

What Is Special about La Jolla

• Picture perfect town on the Pacific and adjacent to San Diego • Sunny Climate • Resort atmosphere • Views of the ocean • Beautiful homes and gardens • Proximity to San Diego •  Torrey Pines (Public) Golf Course • UC San Diego •  Scripps Institution of Oceanography,

What Is Not Special about La Jolla

• It is very expensive and exclusive • You have to like living in a popular tourist area.

Climate and Physical Environment

La Jolla has Mediterranean climate and atmosphere. The town is reminiscent of a southern european village with touches of Beverly Hills along the upscale retail shops on Prospect Street. Much of La Jolla's natural charm stems from the presence of the ocean and Mount Soledad. The average August high is 78 degrees and the January average low is 50.  The most rain comes in January (just over 2").

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

La Jolla culture centers on outdoor activities and shopping. UC San Diego is located in La Jolla and features many cultural events. Nearby San Diego has much to offer for those looking for serious cultural opportunities. There are many galleries and upscale restaurants. The world renowned Museum of Contemporary Art  San Diego has a branch in La Jolla.  The La Jolla Playhouse was founded in 1947 by Gregory Peck, Dorothy McGuire, and Mel Ferrer.It now incorporates three theaters: the Mandell Weiss Theatre (1983), the Mandell Weiss Forum (1991) and the Potiker Theater (2005).

Crime

Crime in La Jolla is under the national average.

Medical Facilities

San Diego has many hospitals.

Transportation

San Diego International Airport is about 5 miles; Rapid Transit has stations in La Jolla connecting to Los Angeles Amtrak; La Jolla is average in walkability when compared to other towns.

Valuable Links

La Jolla by the Sea

La Jolla on Wikipedia

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