La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour San Diego

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Duration2 hours
Daily
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Overview

This two-hour guided kayak tour takes you along the La Jolla coastline to the sea caves, paddling through the ecological reserve with an English-speaking guide. Kayak, paddle, life jacket and helmet are included, and the guide gives a short briefing before you set off. You may see sea lions, harbor seals, bright orange garibaldi fish and sometimes dolphins. Pairs share a two-seater kayak. It is an active outing best suited to swimmers and children aged 5 and over, and there is no hotel pickup.

Highlights

Two-hour guided kayak tour with an English-speaking guide
Paddle along the La Jolla coast to the sea caves
Kayak, paddle, life jacket and helmet included
See sea lions, harbor seals, garibaldi and, sometimes, dolphins
Sandstone cliffs and clear water inside the ecological reserve
Pairs share a stable two-seater kayak
Suitable for beginners; recommended for swimmers and ages 5 and up

Full Description

The La Jolla sea caves

The La Jolla sea caves are a group of sandstone caves cut into the cliffs by centuries of waves, and the seven caves on this route are among the most photographed places on the San Diego coast. Paddling to them is the classic way to see them, because most are reachable only from the water. The largest cave on the tour is Clam's Cave.

The exact route depends on the swell and the tide, and the guide decides how close you can go safely. If you are searching for a La Jolla sea caves kayak tour, this two-hour trip is the standard, with a briefing on land and around ninety minutes on the water.

The La Jolla Ecological Reserve and its marine life

The tour takes place in a protected marine reserve, where fishing is restricted, and that is why the wildlife here is so easy to see. Three habitats meet in the reserve: rocky reefs, sandy flats and kelp beds. You often see California sea lions resting on the rocks and harbor seals, and the water is clear enough to spot bright orange garibaldi below your kayak.

Leopard sharks, which are harmless, guitarfish and the occasional dolphin also appear in these waters. Bring a camera in a waterproof case or ask the guide about safe storage, since the kayaks can get splashed.

La Jolla Cove and the coastline

La Jolla is one of the most scenic seaside neighborhoods in San Diego, with cliffs, tide pools, a small cove beach and a lively village above. The kayaks paddle beneath these cliffs, so you see the coast from the same angle as the wildlife, with the town and its palm trees above you.

When the tour ends, spend a while walking the cliff path or visiting the village. The best time to visit La Jolla for kayaking is a calm morning, when the sea is flatter and the light on the cliffs is at its best.

Your kayak experience and what to expect

The guide gives a short lesson on how to paddle and how to stay safe before you enter the water. All equipment is provided, and a two-seater kayak is used for pairs, which makes the trip suitable for beginners. Wetsuits and lockers can be rented at check-in for an extra fee, which is worth considering in cooler months.

The tour is recommended for swimmers and for children aged 5 and over. Wear a swimsuit or quick-dry clothes, bring sun protection and expect to get a little wet. Sea conditions are checked on the day, and the guide adapts the route so that everyone paddles comfortably and safely.

Itinerary

Check-in in La JollaArrive at the meeting point on your voucher a little before your start time; rent a wetsuit or locker if you wish.
Equipment and safety briefingReceive your kayak, paddle, life jacket and helmet, and a short lesson from the guide.
Paddle along the coastHead out into the ecological reserve under the sandstone cliffs.
The seven sea cavesPaddle to the caves, including Clam's Cave, as sea conditions allow.
Wildlife watchingLook out for sea lions, harbor seals, garibaldi and dolphins.
Return to the beachCome back to the check-in point after about two hours in total.

What's included

Guided kayak tour with an English-speaking guide
Kayak, paddle, life jacket and helmet
Route along the La Jolla coast and its sea caves

Not included

Wetsuit and locker rental (available at check-in)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Tips

Is this right for you?

Great for

Families with children
A short visit — about 2 hours

Think twice if

You want a private tour — this one is shared with other travellers

Not suitable for

Children under 5 years
Non-swimmers
Anyone who is unwell, pregnant or has back or shoulder problems that make paddling difficult
Visitors who are not comfortable in open water

Meeting point

Meet at the check-in point in La Jolla; the exact location is shown on your voucher. The tour starts at set times in the morning and early afternoon. Please arrive a little early to sign in and choose your equipment. Hotel pickup is not included.

Important information

Recommended for swimmers and for children aged 5 and over
Pairs share a two-seater kayak
Wear a swimsuit or quick-dry clothes and bring a towel and a change of clothes
Bring sun protection, water and secure footwear that can get wet
Wetsuits and lockers can be rented at check-in for an extra fee
Tours depend on the sea and surf conditions and can be adjusted for safety
Hotel pickup and tips are not included
Follow your guide's instructions at all times and do not touch the wildlife

Good to know

Frequently Asked Questions

Straight answers to what travellers ask us most, before they book.

How much does the La Jolla sea caves kayak tour cost?

The price depends on the date and the group. The booking panel on this page shows the current price for the option.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. The tour starts at a check-in point in La Jolla, and the exact location is on your voucher.

How long is the kayak tour?

The tour lasts about two hours in total, including the briefing and around ninety minutes on the water.

Is the kayak tour suitable for children?

Yes, for children aged 5 and over who can swim. Children under 5 are not suitable for this tour.

Do I need kayaking experience?

No. The guide gives a short lesson, and pairs share a stable two-seater kayak. Basic fitness and the ability to swim are recommended.

What is included?

A guided kayak tour with an English-speaking guide, plus the kayak, paddle, life jacket and helmet. Wetsuit and locker rental, hotel pickup and tips are not included.

Can I book for today or tomorrow?

Yes, subject to availability. Choose your start time in the booking panel.

What should I wear and bring?

A swimsuit or quick-dry clothes, water shoes or sandals with a strap, sunscreen and a towel. Wetsuits can be rented at check-in.

Will I see sea lions?

Often, yes. Sea lions and harbor seals are common in the reserve, and garibaldi are easy to see in the clear water. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.

Can I enter the caves?

Depending on the swell and tide, the guide takes you to the caves and into some of them, including Clam's Cave, the largest on the tour. Safety comes first, so the route may change.