SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — A visit to or day around San Diego isn't complete without stopping in La Jolla.
The classic surf town is swelling with history and scenic views of the ocean, small mom and pop shops, and delicious eateries.
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If you're heading to La Jolla or bringing some guests along for the trip, make sure you stop in at these longtime eateries and, of course, enjoy some seal watching:
What to do...
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego: Explore works of art and enjoy ocean views with a variety of exhibitions at La Jolla's branch of the MCASD. The museum has offered the La Jolla community contemporary art experiences for more than 70 years, showcasing art dating back to 1950 and nearly 5,000 total works. (The gallery is currently undergoing renovation and plans to reopen in 2021.)
Seal watching: If La Jolla is famous for one thing, it's seals. Tourists and residents alike routinely make their way to the coastline to watch the seals rest and frolic on our coast. Head to the Children's Pool, Sea Cave, La Jolla Cove, Shell Beach, or Seal Rock for the best spots to watch our harbor neighbors.
The Cave Store: The historic Cave Store has offered a glimpse of our coast's caves with a special man-made tunnel from inside the store to Sunny Jim Cave. The cave was named by Frank Baum, the writer of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," who though the cave's opening resembled the cartoon character Sunny Jim. Shoppers can peruse an array of nautical-themed jewelry, t-shirts, and gifts before heading into the cave.
La Jolla Open Aire Farmers Market: There's plenty of fresh local produce and handmade goods at La Jolla's Open Aire Market every Sunday. The market was started to help fund the La Jolla Elementary School library and a new librarian and has grown to more than 100 vendors and vibrant community marketplace.
Where to eat...
Brockton Villa: Brockton Villa Restaurant is housed in one of La Jolla's first ocean-front cottages. The structure was build as a weekend retreat in 1894 by a San Diego physician for a mere $165 (imagine that today, right?) The cottage was once also owned at one point by La Jolla's Pannikin Coffee and Tea.
Goldfish Point Cafe: If you're taking a stroll along La Jolla Cove, chances are you'll need a hot drink to accompany the cool temps. Stop by Goldfish Point Cafe for coffee or tea as you take in the scenic ocean views just outside this cozy cafe.
Harry's Coffee Shop: For a bite of fame, Harry's Coffee Shop was featured on Food Network Top 5 Restaurants for best diners and has routinely won over foodies for its delicious breakfast and lunch menu and classic diner vibes dating back to its opening in 1960.
Living Room Coffeehouse: Residents looking for a cup o' joe and pastry have visited The Living Room to either refuel or kickback. The coffeehouse was introduced in 1991 as a place for students to study, business people on the run, and residents seeking a relaxing atmosphere — and has continued providing all of the above since.
Pannikin La Jolla: Coffee fans has long enjoyed Pannikin coffees and teas since 1968, after it began out of a home in La Jolla's Green Dragon Artist Colony. Soak in the ocean breeze over coffee, breakfast, or pastries at the 1894 cottage.
