Nestled between Del Mar and San Diego, La Jolla is known for its miles of coastline, breathtaking hilltop views, and affluent lifestyle. It’s home to some of Southern California’s most stunning beaches, fine-dining restaurants, luxury shopping, and exciting, year-round outdoor activities. It’s a short drive to Downtown San Diego, so it’s convenient for commuters. It’s no wonder La Jolla real estate remains in high demand. Read below to see why living in La Jolla is so popular.
Beachside living at its finest
La Jolla is comprised of exclusive neighborhoods boasting multi-million dollar estates. La Jolla luxury homes perched on the hills overlook the ocean and downtown, while oceanfront designer homes are just steps away from the water. They offer privacy, a beautiful landscape, and the convenience of being very close to the city of San Diego.
La Jolla also boasts some of Southern California’s most stunning beaches. La Jolla Shores has a one-mile stretch of sandy beach, a grassy area perfect for picnics, and a boat launch. Eight minutes south, La Jolla Cove is a small beach tucked between sandstone cliffs. It’s the main launch point for snorkelers and scuba divers exploring the San Diego — La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve. The La Jolla Tide Pools are great for exploring, especially between December and March when the tide pools are more visible. Other noteworthy beaches are Marine Street Beach and Windansea Beach.
Warm, sunny weather year-round
La Jolla has mild, temperate weather year-round. It’s warm, sunny, and basically beach season full-time. The dry season lasts over seven months, from April to November. In the winter, there are few rainy days, with five days of light rain in February at the most. Residents can enjoy all the outdoor activities La Jolla has to offer, no matter the month or season. The warm and sunny weather makes it easier to live an active, outdoor lifestyle.
Breathtaking natural scenery
The coastline of La Jolla is a postcard-perfect scene. The crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches against bright blue skies are breathtaking. Rugged cliffs surround the landscape.
Because it’s on the west coast, the sunsets are just spectacular. Bird Rock Lookout at Hermosa Park is one of our favorites. There are bike paths and picnic areas perfect for leisure afternoons waiting for the evening to set in. One of the most dramatic viewpoints is from Sunset Cliffs. The coastal bluffs offer panoramic views. During whale migrating season, you can spot California gray whales making their way to Baja Sur. If you come during low tide, you can walk along the shore. The surrounding park features caves, an intertidal area, and a coastal wildlife habitat.
Upscale shopping and dining
Photo courtesy of Puesto
La Jolla offers the most upscale shopping in San Diego. Downtown La Jolla is often referred to as “The Village,” and here you’ll find luxury brands and chic boutiques lining Prospect Street, Ivanhoe Avenue, Herschel Street, and Gerard Avenue. Kate Spade, Lululemon, and Ralph Lauren are among the most well-known brands.
There are also countless luxury boutiques, such as CJ Charles, which sells fine jewelry and watches from Montblanc and Cartier, and Alexia Maria, which sells 1950s-style clothing. Fine dining options include George’s at the Cove, Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, Manhattan of La Jolla, and Bistro du Marché by Tapenade.
Other shopping and dining destinations are The Shops of La Jolla Village and Westfield UTC, an expansive open-air shopping center with world-renowned designer brands, including Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Tiffany’s. A diverse array of restaurants include Himitsu, a Japanese restaurant serving sushi and small plates, Puesto, which serves elevated Mexican fare in a colorful setting, and Catania, an Italian restaurant with ocean views.
High-tech companies provide jobs
La Jolla and San Diego are home to booming industries such as robotics, telecommunications, health care, technology, and finance. A high percentage of La Jolla residents work in high-power professional jobs. In La Jolla alone, software companies Altium and Miro Technologies are big draws. Many residents also make the commute to San Diego for high-powered jobs at HP, PlayStation, Qualcomm, Intuit, Seismic, and numerous other enterprises.
Plenty of fun outdoor recreational activities
There’s never a dull moment in La Jolla. Kayaking the La Jolla Sea Caves is one of the most popular activities among residents and tourists. Snorkelers and scuba divers also flock to the coast to explore the sea caves and underwater ecological reserves.
For land activities, La Jolla has networks of nature trails for runners, hikers, and bikers. The Coast Walk Trail between La Jolla Cove and La Jolla Shores is a beautiful easy walk. Of course, the best time to hike is toward sunset. The Bird Rock Bike Path is a hidden gem. Local residents use this trail to get between La Jolla and Pacific Beach.
Golfing in La Jolla is another favorite pastime of residents. Torrey Pines Golf Course is a 36-hole municipal golf facility. It offers majestic views of the Pacific Ocean and hosts the annual Farmers Insurance Open. The members-only La Jolla Country Club offers an 18-hole course, a driving range, and a putting green.
Proximity to San Diego and to Temecula wineries
La Jolla is a short 20-minute drive to San Diego, so it’s a quick commute, whether for work or pleasure. Nightlife at Gaslamp Quarter or catching a Padres baseball game are big draws for leisure activities. One hour north of La Jolla, Temecula offers world-class wine tasting. There are over 40 wineries and superb restaurants surrounded by beautiful vineyard views. You can grab a quick bite, have a leisurely lunch with a bottle of wine, or enjoy a five-star dinner. Temecula is perfect for day trips or weekend getaways.
See La Jolla for yourself
If you are interested in moving or investing in La Jolla, contact Sonja Huter. She specializes in luxury property sales in the San Diego coastal area, including Rancho Santa Fe and Del Mar real estate. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, a local insider’s mind, and incredible attention to detail, she can help you find your next dream home.