The Quaint Beauty of La Jolla Cove
Beneath the barrage of upscale boutiques and hotels of downtown La Jolla lies a very small but cozy beachfront known as the La Jolla Cove. Known for its clear blue waters making it an ideal spot for snorkelers and scuba divers, the La Jolla Cove is part of the San Diego La Jolla Underwater Park and Ecological Reserve which is a renowned marine refuge area. This little area is ideal because it provides options for fun family activities whether you want to go on a picnic and lie on the grass, the Scripps Park is located just above the cove, or head over to the beach and take advantage of the fun recreational activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, or just laying down on the sand reading a good book.
La Jolla Cove Sea Caves
Among the many attractions in La Jolla Cove are the many sea caves. One of the most popular is Sunny Jim’s Cave which is one of the only sea caves accessible by land and the only accessible sea cave in La Jolla. The cave became accessible through a hand dug tunnel which leads from the historical landmark which is the Cave Store. The cave’s name was given by “The Wizard of Oz” author Frank Baum who thought that the shape of the opening resembled a cartoon mascot for the British Force Wheat Cereal back in the 1920′s. Sunny Jim’s is a historical cave which was once used to smuggle Chinese immigrants and contraband such as whiskey during the days of Prohibition. Other sea caves such as The Clam’s Cave, Arch Cave, Sea Surprise, Shopping Cart, Little Sister, and White Lady are accessible only through kayak because they faced the sea. The only sea cave visible from land is the Clam’s Cave which is the largest and westernmost sea cave.
La Jolla Cove Activities
The La Jolla Cove also provides a host of underwater activities. It is most popular for its snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. The clear water as well as the sheer abundance of undersea life makes it an ideal for snorkelers. The Garibaldi, which is the state fish of California, is a popular attraction with its abundance in this particular area. Other fishes include half moons, yellow tails, sardines, rock fishes and sometimes even some leopard sharks. The La Jolla Cove has a very strict “look but don’t touch policy” due to its ties with the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park and Ecological Reserve which maintains the steady population of marine life. Picking up specimens, including deceased ones, are protected by federal law.
La Jolla Cove Kayaking
Experienced paddlers are also free to rent kayaks and explore the area on their own. Paddling through the sandy flats at La Jolla Shores to view harmless leopard sharks is an experienced not be missed. La Jolla Cove also holds the distinction of being one of the most photographed beaches in Southern California. It’s hard not to see why with its clear waters and scenic sunsets and its easy access to other attractions located in La Jolla. So the next time you are in California head over to La Jolla Cove and experience big time fun in this small beach.
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