La Jolla Shores

La Jolla Shores (8200 Camino del Oro) is a sandy beach approximately one mile long, adjacent to a residential area. In summer, waves at this beach are usually the most gentle of all San Diego beaches, although rip currents may still be strong at times. For this reason, many novice scuba classes are held at La Jolla Shores. Kellogg Park, a grassy area, is located behind the main lifeguard station and is ideal for picnicking. A wide cement boardwalk parallels a portion of the beach between the park and the sand.

La Jolla Shores lies adjacent to the San Diego La Jolla Underwater Ecological Reserve. Fishing and removal of objects from this area is prohibited. At the north end of this beach lies the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and Scripps Pier. The pier is not open to the public, but the Steven Birch Aquarium is within 1/2 mile of La Jolla Shores and is open daily.

La Jolla Shores has the only beachfront boat launch within City limits. Small vessels can be launched directly into the surf at the foot of Avenida de la Playa, approximately 300 yards south of the lifeguard station. This is an unimproved boat launch and vehicles are allowed to drive on the sand in a very limited area at five miles per hour or less. Four wheel drive is highly recommended.