Hotels in La Jolla

Embrace the Enchantment of La Jolla: A Coastal Haven of Innovation and Nature

Nestled along the stunning Southern California coastline, La Jolla is a captivating blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Famous for its picturesque beaches, including the serene La Jolla Shores and the enchanting La Jolla Cove, visitors can indulge in sun-soaked relaxation or explore the rich marine life through kayaking and snorkelling. The charming downtown area boasts boutique shops, gourmet dining, and a lively nightlife scene, making it perfect for romantic getaways or leisurely strolls. With the prestigious University of California, San Diego adding an intellectual vibe, La Jolla is a luxurious escape that beckons adventurers and dreamers alike.

Discover great hotels in La Jolla

La Jolla offers a delightful range of hotel accommodations, from charming beachfront properties to elegant boutique hotels. Visitors can enjoy stunning ocean views, friendly service, and easy access to local attractions, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers in La Jolla:

1. Pacific Shores Inn on Pacific BeachOpens in a new window: This charming 2.5-star hotel provides a delightful retreat for leisure travellers seeking a pet-friendly experience. With a warm atmosphere and thoughtful amenities, guests can enjoy the comfort of bringing their furry companions along. The property features convenient services tailored to enhance the stay, creating a welcoming environment for both pets and their owners. Many visitors appreciate the relaxed vibe and the accommodating nature of the staff, making it a favourite choice for those who value a home-like setting while away from home.
2. PB Surf Beachside InnOpens in a new window: PB Surf Beachside Inn is a 2.5-star hotel that stands out for its family-friendly amenities, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for leisure travellers. With complimentary cribs available and a focus on accommodating needs, the property fosters a comfortable atmosphere for all guests. The hotel is designed to provide a seamless stay, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding area with ease. Travellers often commend the attentive service and the thoughtful touches that make their time memorable, contributing to a relaxed and enjoyable getaway.
3. Beach Haven - Near Pacific Beach ParkOpens in a new window: Beach Haven - Near Pacific Beach Park is a 2.0-star hotel perfect for adventure-seekers looking for exhilarating experiences. With a range of adventure sports and recreational activities available nearby, this property invites guests to immerse themselves in the thrill of outdoor pursuits. From fishing to surfing, the hotel connects visitors with the vibrant local environment. Travellers appreciate the energetic atmosphere and the accessibility of exciting activities, making it an ideal base for those eager to explore and engage with the stunning coastal landscape.

Top locations to stay in La Jolla

When visiting La Jolla, California, consider staying in Del Mar, Mission Beach, or Pacific Beach. Del Mar offers scenic horse riding along the coast, Mission Beach is vibrant with entertainment and dining, while Pacific Beach boasts a lively atmosphere and beautiful beaches. For first-time visitors, Mission Beach is particularly suited, providing a mix of fun and relaxation.

1. Mission BeachOpens in a new window: If you're after a vibrant beach scene, Mission Beach is the ideal spot to stay. This lively area boasts a stunning stretch of sandy shore perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and beach volleyball. The iconic boardwalk is great for cycling or strolling, with plenty of shops and casual eateries lining the way. Plus, you can easily access the nearby Belmont Park, which offers amusement rides and classic seaside fun. With its laid-back atmosphere and strong sense of community, Mission Beach is perfect for those looking to soak up the sun while enjoying a variety of activities.
2. Pacific BeachOpens in a new window: Known for its youthful energy, Pacific Beach is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a bustling coastal vibe. The area is famous for its lively beachfront, where you can partake in various water sports or simply relax by the waves. It's also a hotspot for shopping, with numerous boutiques and surf shops to explore. In the evenings, the area comes alive with cultural attractions and events, making it a great place to experience local art and music. The beach bonfires at sunset are a must-see, offering a perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.
3. Del MarOpens in a new window: For a more upscale beach experience, Del Mar is the perfect retreat. With its stunning coastal views and charming village atmosphere, this area offers a serene escape. Del Mar is renowned for its beautiful beaches and scenic walking trails, ideal for leisurely strolls. The Del Mar Racetrack adds a touch of excitement during the racing season, while boutique shopping provides a unique local flavour. This area is perfect for those looking to enjoy a quieter, more refined atmosphere while still being close to all the attractions of the San Diego area.

Things to do in La Jolla

La Jolla is a coastal gem where stunning beaches meet rugged cliffs, offering a playground for nature lovers. Enjoy exhilarating activities like surfing, boating, or diving in crystal-clear waters, and unwind with picturesque sunsets. With lush parks and scenic trails, it's a haven for birdwatchers and hikers alike.

• La Jolla CoveOpens in a new window – Dive into the stunning bay of La Jolla Cove, where you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the sandy shores. This picturesque spot is perfect for observing marine life, including seals and sea lions basking in the sun. Don’t forget your camera; the coastal views are breathtaking!
• Children's Pool BeachOpens in a new window – Ideal for families, Children's Pool Beach offers a gentle shoreline where kids can play safely. While the beach is known for its calm waters, be sure to watch the playful seals that often visit, adding a touch of wildlife excitement to your beach day.
• Hotel CircleOpens in a new window – Wander along Hotel Circle, a vibrant street lined with a variety of accommodation options, dining spots, and entertainment venues. It's an excellent base for exploring the broader San Diego area, providing easy access to local attractions.
• Ocean Beach PierOpens in a new window – Stroll down the Ocean Beach Pier, one of the longest piers on the West Coast, where you can fish or just enjoy stunning ocean views. The lively atmosphere here makes it a great place for a leisurely walk at sunset.
• Crystal PierOpens in a new window – Visit Crystal Pier to experience the charm of this historic wooden pier. Enjoy the coastal breeze while taking in the beautiful ocean views. It’s a great spot for fishing or simply relaxing as you watch surfers ride the waves.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in La Jolla

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit La Jolla is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices may drop. For those on a budget, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the area's key landmarks and cultural attractions. Visitors can enjoy the stunning coastline, beautiful beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and opportunities for surfing. The local university and aquarium add to the cultural experience, while dining options featuring fresh seafood provide great value for money. Nature enthusiasts can also indulge in birdwatching amidst La Jolla's picturesque scenery.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals to La Jolla, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com can keep you informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, so you're more likely to see opportunities for savings. The Smart Shopping feature in the app acts as a comparison tool, allowing you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you’re the first to know if prices drop or rooms become available.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay in a hotel in La Jolla. For those seeking distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised experience and occasionally better value. When you make a booking through Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll suggest more economical dates, which could increase the likelihood of you saving on your trip.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but with La Jolla's excellent public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel located a bit further out that remains well connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to La Jolla

La Jolla experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 56.7°F (13.7°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.4°F (23.0°C). December tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit La Jolla are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.