The La Jolla Sea Caves are a stunning natural attraction located along the coastline between La Jolla Shores and La Jolla Cove in San Diego, California. They are part of the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park and Ecological Reserve. Visitors can access the La Jolla caves by kayak or boat, except for Sunny Jim Cave, which requires climbing a stairway and passing through a tunnel.
There are seven caves in total: White Lady, Little Sister, Shopping Cart, Sea Surprise, Arch, Sunny Jim, and Clam’s Cave. These caves were formed over thousands of years through wave erosion. Kayak tours are the most popular way to experience the caves, as they provide close-up views of these natural wonders.
Kayak Tours of the Caves
Experienced kayakers can rent a kayak to go on their own, but the tours are a better choice for the average person. No kayak experience is required; however, all participants must swim and have ample water experience. All equipment is provided, including life jackets, helmets, and a quick water safety course. Go ahead, try it; it’s an experience you will not forget.
Kayak Tour Details and Logistics
Duration and Cost: Most tours last 90 minutes to 2 hours, with prices ranging from $74–$119 for tandem kayaks and $84 for single kayaks, depending on the operator and season. Some companies offer discounts for afternoon or evening tours or with promo codes like “summerfun” or “eveningfun”.
Starting Point: Tours typically begin at La Jolla Shores, the only launch point for kayaks, as La Jolla Cove is part of the protected reserve where launching is prohibited. Participants check in at outfitters’ storefronts (e.g., 2261 Avenida de la Playa), get fitted with helmets and life vests, and walk 1–3 blocks to the beach for a 10–15-minute paddle and safety briefing.
Equipment and Attire: Kayaks, paddles, life vests, and helmets are provided. Wetsuits and lockers are available for rent. Participants should wear swimwear or quick-drying clothes and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a waterproof bag or camera.
Cave Access: Entry into caves, particularly Clam’s Cave or Emerald Cave, depends on ocean conditions (tides, waves, and swell). Clam’s Cave is the most frequently entered due to its multiple openings, while others, like Arch Cave, may only be viewed from outside unless conditions are exceptionally calm. Guides prioritize safety and may not disclose in advance if cave entry is unlikely.
Popular Tour Operators
La Jolla Kayak (2261 Avenida de la Playa): Offers guided tours of the seven caves, kayak rentals, and snorkel combos. Known for small groups and experienced guides sharing local history. Tours start at 9 AM, with sunset options for a magical experience. Website.
Everyday California (2261 Avenida de la Playa): The largest outfitter since 2010, offering small-group tours (6:1 guest-to-guide ratio), snorkel tours, and whale-watching kayaks in winter. Guides are praised for humor and expertise. Website.
La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks (2164 Avenida de la Playa): Specializes in cave tours and rentals, emphasizing the reserve’s five marine habitats (sandy beach, rocky reefs, cliffs, kelp forests, canyons). Wetsuit rentals and lockers are included or discounted. Website.
Hike Bike Kayak San Diego: Offers kayak and snorkel tours, focusing on safety with certified guides. Known for informative tours and seamless rental processes. Website.
Overview of The Seven La Jolla Sea Caves
The seven sculpted caves are open to the north and sit between the beach of La Jolla Shores and La Jolla Cove.
1. Sunny Jim Cave: This Cave is the only La Jolla cave accessible by land via a hand-dug tunnel leading down from the historical landmark, the Cave Store. The Cave was named “Sunny Jim” by Frank Baum, the author of The Wizard of Oz. Mr. Baum gave the Cave this unique name due to the shape of the Cave’s opening.
2. Clam’s Cave: This Cave is the only sea cave visible from land. Clam’s Cave is double-sided, and the backside can be seen from Goldfish Point on Coast Blvd. The rest of the La Jolla caves are only visible via the ocean. These other caves are usually awash in waves and seldom seen by anyone except kayakers.
3. White Lady, named for her long, bustled-dress silhouette, is located on the eastern corner of the sea cliff. In front of the Cave, many larger rocks in the ocean promote crashing waves and whitewash, lending significance to the description “white.”
4. Little Sister Cave: The smallest of the seven, named for its resemblance to White Lady Cave. It’s easily overlooked, tucked among larger caves, and best seen on guided kayak tours because of its hidden location.
5. Shopping Cart Cave: Notable for its west-facing entrance, unusual among the caves, it was historically significant for trapping spiny lobsters. Its quirky name reflects its shape and past use by local fishermen.
6. Sea Surprise Cave: Deceptively small from the outside, it hides an 80-foot tunnel with orange flowstone walls and a pool of calcite-coated sea anemones, offering a striking interior for kayakers.
7. Arch Cave: The deepest cave, stretching over 600 feet with six radiating tunnels connected by a natural archway. Its complex structure makes it a highlight, though it’s challenging to access, especially at high tide.
Tips for Visitors
Best Time: Low tide improves cave visibility and access. Summer (May–October) is ideal for leopard sharks, while winter (December–March) offers whale-watching opportunities. Keep an eye out for the diverse marine life that inhabits the caves, including sea lions, garibaldi fish, and even the occasional dolphin. Afternoon tours (e.g., 4 PM) may have calmer winds and warmer temperatures.
Booking: Reserve in advance via platforms like Viator or directly with outfitters for better availability. Cancellations are refundable up to 24 hours before arrival.
Safety: Follow guide instructions, respect marine life, and avoid touching rock formations. By being mindful of the environment, you can contribute to the preservation of this natural wonder. Be prepared for wet conditions and potential wave challenges during launch.
Alternatives: For a DIY experience, rent kayaks, but note that some caves require a certified guide for entry. Snorkeling or walking Coast Blvd. offers partial views of the caves.
About the La Jolla sea cave trip:
Where is the facility for tge trip & equipment rental?
How long is the trip & cost?
What’s the link to make reservations?
Any other details are appreciated.
Summer is the busy season and they have no problem filling up the tours.
I would recommend this trip to any inexperienced kayaker. They provided all the equipment, a short training session, and guide to get us to the caves and back safely. We saw a lot of fish and even a couple of seals inside the caves.
There are several tour groups offering sea cave trips. We used the deal listed in this page through San Diego Bike & Kayak Tours. I think they are the biggest tour operator.
Fun time well worth the drive down from Los Angeles. We went on a weekday and is was not too crowded.
Good to hear you enjoyed visiting the sea caves.
Hello!
I am going to be visiting San Diego in a week and am really excited that you recommend this trip for any inexperienced kayakers! I was wondering what the conditions were like? Did you have to get out of the kayak at all, or did you just stay in it the whole time? Just wondering because I struggle with getting back in after! hahaha. I can swim and whatnot, but I hate tipping and having to get back in!
I would appreciate any feedback! Thanks!
Amanda
Hello Amanda
You do not have to get out of the kayak. You will get wet especially when launching from the beach. A guide will be with your group for the whole trip and there is a training session before you start.
Life jackets are provided, just in case.
Have fun and thanks for visiting DayTrippen.com