The Original La Jolla Walking Tour

5.0 (133 reviews) 2 hours – 2 h 15 min Free cancellation

out of 5

133 reviews

5.0

La Jolla Ground Zero — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

The majestic La Valencia Hotel. AKA “The Pink Lady”” — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

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.

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At a glance

Duration: 2 hours – 2 h 15 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 15 people
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: Historic La Jolla Walking Tours

Ages: Children (10–15 years) · Youth (16–20 years) · Adults (21–64 years) · Seniors (65–99 years)

What is included

Included

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

Itinerary

La Jolla Recreation Center

10 min

One of Ellen Scripps’ many gifts to La Jolla. We learn what makes it unique.
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

5 min

We will not tour the museum, but it is the site of Ellen Scripps’ home in La Jolla, which is incorporated into the museum.
Museum of History and Culture La Jolla

5 min

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.
St. James by-The-Sea Episcopal Church

5 min

St. James by the Sea is a beautiful church. But what stands there now is not the original structure. Where did it go?
Girard Avenue and Prospect Street

10 min

Ground Zero La Jolla. There is a lot of history at and near this intersection, and we have the photos to prove it!
The Cave Store

5 min

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?
La Jolla Cove

15 min

La Jolla Cove is the site of caves, sea lions, cormorant rookeries, and unparalleled beauty.
Ellen Browning Scripps Park

20 min

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.
Children's Pool

5 min

The last thing Ellen Scripps gave to La Jolla while she was still alive. Beautiful break wall and lots of seals.
Coast Boulevard Park

Passing by

We’ll see The Wedding Bowl and the La Jolla Tide Pools

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

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.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

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

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.