La Jolla Kayaking: Complete Paddler's Guide (2025)

I'll never forget my first time paddling into Sunny Jim's Cave. The morning sun lit up the sandstone walls like they were made of gold, and a curious sea lion popped up right next to my kayak, close enough to spray me with his exhale. That was twelve years ago, and I've been hooked on La Jolla kayaking ever since.

After hundreds of trips through these waters – from glassy dawn patrols to sketchy afternoon wind battles – I've learned every secret this legendary paddle destination has to offer. La Jolla isn't just another pretty beach town; it's home to California's most accessible sea caves, one of the world's largest leopard shark gatherings, and an underwater ecological reserve that rivals any aquarium.

Whether you're planning your first La Jolla kayak adventure or you're a seasoned paddler looking for insider tips, this guide covers everything: where to launch without getting pounded by shore break, how to find parking (the real challenge), which caves you can actually enter, and when those famous leopard sharks show up. I'll also share the mistakes that left me swimming back to shore more than once.

Quick Info

• Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate (conditions vary)
• Best Season: June through October
• Water Type: Ocean with protected coves
• Key Hazards: Shore break, afternoon winds, sea caves

Getting There

Directions to La Jolla Shores (Main Launch)

From I-5, take the La Jolla Village Drive exit and head west. Turn left onto Torrey Pines Road, then right onto La Jolla Shores Drive. Follow it all the way to Avenida de la Playa. The main launch area is at the end of this street.

Parking Reality Check

Let me be straight with you – parking at La Jolla Shores is a competitive sport, especially on summer weekends. Here's what actually works:

Early Bird Strategy: Arrive before 7 AM on weekends, before 8 AM on weekdays. The Kellogg Park lot fills fast, but street parking along Camino del Oro and El Paseo Grande usually has spots if you're early.

Secret Spots: Check the residential streets east of La Jolla Shores Drive. Yes, you'll have to haul your kayak a few blocks, but a good kayak cart makes this painless.

Peak Season Backup: During summer, consider launching from La Jolla Cove instead. Park along Coast Boulevard (2-hour limit) and launch from the small beach. It's less crowded but requires intermediate skills due to the rocky entry.

Launch Sites

La Jolla Shores Beach Launch This is your best bet for easy launching. Drive down to the end of Avenida de la Playa where you'll see the boat launch area. During summer, kayak tour companies dominate this zone, but there's usually room for independent paddlers. The beach staff here are helpful – they'll even help push you through the shore break if needed.

Warning: The sand can be super soft. I've seen plenty of 2WD vehicles get stuck. Unless you have 4WD, park on the street and wheel your kayak down. Trust me on this – I spent an hour helping dig out a Toyota Camry last summer.

Marine Room Launch For a less chaotic launch, head south to the Marine Room restaurant. Launch from the beach just south of the seawall. This puts you closer to the caves and avoids the tour group circus. Just respect the private property and don't block driveways.

What to Expect?

Water Conditions

La Jolla's conditions change dramatically throughout the day. Mornings are typically glassy and perfect for beginners – I call it "lake mode." By noon, the wind picks up from the northwest, creating choppy conditions and making the paddle back challenging.

Seasonal Patterns:

• Summer (June-September): Warmest water (65-72°F), calmest conditions, biggest crowds
• Fall (October-November): Still warm, fewer crowds, occasional south swells
• Winter (December-March): Cooler water (57-62°F), bigger swells, clearest visibility
• Spring (April-May): Variable conditions, warming water, kelp growth

Wildlife Encounters

The La Jolla Ecological Reserve is absolutely loaded with marine life. On any given paddle, you'll likely see:

• Sea Lions: They're everywhere, especially around the caves. Give them space – they're protected and can be territorial during pupping season
• Leopard Sharks: June through October, hundreds gather in the shallows
• Garibaldi: California's state fish – bright orange and fearless
• Rays: Bat rays, round stingrays, and occasional butterfly rays
• Dolphins: Common dolphins often cruise through in the mornings

Last month, a gray whale passed within 50 yards of my kayak. Not typical, but it happens during migration season (December-April).

Best Routes

Route 1: The Seven Caves Tour (Beginner-Intermediate)

Distance: 2-3 miles round trip
Time: 1.5-2 hours
Highlights: All seven sea caves, sea lion colonies

Launch from La Jolla Shores and paddle south along the cliffs. You'll pass the Marine Room, then enter the cave zone. The caves, from north to south:

1. Clam's Cave: Small and often skipable
2. Sunny Jim's Cave: The only one accessible by land (through the Cave Store)
3. Arch Cave: Beautiful natural arch
4. Sea Surprise Cave: Two entrances
5. Shopping Cart Cave: Named for... well, you'll see
6. Angled Cave: Narrow entrance
7. White Lady Cave: Southernmost cave

Only Clam's Cave is typically safe to enter, and only on calm days. The others require expert timing and flat conditions. I've seen too many paddlers get munched trying to enter caves in sketchy conditions.

Route 2: Leopard Shark Safari (Beginner)

Distance: 1-2 miles
Time: 1-1.5 hours
Best Months: July-September

Launch from Marine Room and paddle south toward La Jolla Shores. The sharks congregate in 4-10 feet of water over the sandy bottom. Early morning offers the best visibility – by 10 AM, snorkelers and swimmers stir up the sand.

Bring a waterproof phone case for underwater shots. These sharks are harmless but protected – don't touch or chase them.

Route 3: The Cove to Shores Traverse (Intermediate)

Distance: 4-5 miles round trip
Time: 2-3 hours
Highlights: Full coastline experience

This is my favorite route when conditions allow. Launch from La Jolla Cove, paddle north past the caves to La Jolla Shores, then return. You'll experience the dramatic cliffs, open ocean swells, and protected waters all in one trip.

Key Points:

• Check swell direction – south swells make the caves dangerous
• Start early to avoid afternoon winds
• Consider one-way with a car shuttle

Essential Gear for La Jolla

Kayak Selection

The protected waters make La Jolla perfect for almost any kayak, but some work better than others. Sit-on-tops dominate here for good reasons – easy to remount after swimming with sharks, self-draining, and stable for photography.

If you're renting, most shops offer basic recreational kayaks that work fine. For cave exploration, shorter kayaks (10-12 feet) maneuver better. For the longer coastal paddles, a touring kayak tracks better.

Safety Equipment

Required by Law:

• PFD (life jacket) – Yes, even in calm conditions
• Sound signal (whistle attached to PFD)
• Navigation light (if paddling near sunset)

Highly Recommended:

• Marine radio or waterproof phone
• Bilge pump
• Paddle leash – I learned this after watching my spare paddle float away
• Dive flag (if snorkeling from kayak)

Seasonal Gear

Summer:

• Rash guard or wetsuit top (the sun reflects off the water)
• Reef-safe sunscreen (required in the ecological reserve)
• Dry bag for electronics

Winter:

• Full wetsuit (3/2mm minimum)
• Neoprene gloves (your hands will freeze)
• Change of warm clothes in the car

Photography Gear

La Jolla is insanely photogenic. My setup:

• GoPro with floaty handle
• Waterproof phone case with lanyard
• Polarized sunglasses (essential for spotting sharks)

Local Tips

Best Launch Times

After twelve years of paddling here, I've learned timing is everything:

• Ideal: 6:30-8:00 AM (glassy water, parking available, wildlife active)
• Good: Before 10 AM or after 4 PM
• Avoid: 11 AM-3 PM (maximum crowds, wind, and tour groups)

Where Locals Go?

Skip the main caves on busy days. Instead, paddle north from La Jolla Shores toward Scripps Pier. The kelp beds here are pristine, and you'll often have them to yourself. Just don't interfere with the research equipment.

South of the caves, the stretch toward Windansea is spectacular but requires intermediate skills. The reefs create confused seas, but the solitude is worth it.

Hidden Spots

There's a small sea cave just north of the Marine Room that most tours miss. It's only accessible at high tide, but when conditions align, you can paddle completely through it. Local surfers call it the "Secret Spot" – respect their waves if they're out.

What to Avoid?

• Never enter caves when waves are over 2 feet
• Don't paddle too close to Scripps Pier (research zone)
• Avoid the shore break at La Jolla Shores during high tide
• Stay clear of seal pupping areas (marked with signs)

Where to Stay?

Kayak-Friendly Hotels

La Jolla Shores Hotel: Right on the beach with kayak storage. Expensive but worth it for the convenience. I've stayed here during winter storms when I wanted dawn patrol access.

La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club: Private beach access and kayak rentals on-site. The breakfast buffet alone makes it worthwhile after a morning paddle.

Budget Option: The Redwood Hollow Cottages allow kayak storage and are a 10-minute drive to the water.

Camping Nearby

Silver Strand State Beach: 30 minutes south, beachfront camping with kayak launching. Book months ahead for summer weekends.

San Elijo State Beach: 20 minutes north, cliff-top camping with beach access. The sunset views are unreal.

Where to Eat?

Post-Paddle Food

The Marine Room: Splurge for high-tide dining. Waves literally hit the windows while you eat. Their Sunday brunch after a morning paddle is my favorite treat.

Shorehouse Kitchen: Casual spot on Avenida de la Playa. Their acai bowls and fish tacos fuel most local paddlers.

Jeff's Burgers: Hidden gem for cheap, filling food. The California burrito will restore all those burned calories.

Coffee Spots

Better Buzz Coffee: Opens at 6 AM, perfect for pre-paddle caffeine. Their Mexican Mocha is legendary among the dawn patrol crew.

Bird Rock Coffee Roasters: If you're launching from the south, stop here first. Serious coffee and they support ocean conservation.

Gear Shops Nearby

Everyday California: Full rentals, tours, and retail on Avenida de la Playa. Helpful staff who actually paddle.

La Jolla Kayak: Family-run shop with good local knowledge. They'll match you with the right kayak for conditions.

OEX La Jolla: For forgotten gear – they stock quality dry bags, PFDs, and safety equipment.

FAQ Section

When are the leopard sharks in La Jolla?

The leopard sharks arrive in June and peak in August-September. On calm mornings, I've counted over 50 in a single area. They're harmless to humans – mostly pregnant females using the warm shallows as a nursery. Early morning (before 9 AM) offers the best visibility before snorkelers stir up the sand.

Can beginners kayak in La Jolla?

Absolutely, but timing matters. La Jolla Shores offers protected waters perfect for beginners, especially before 10 AM. The afternoon wind and waves can challenge new paddlers. If you're nervous, consider a guided tour first – they know which conditions work for beginners. I always recommend new paddlers check our beginner's guide for basic techniques before hitting the ocean.

Do I need a wetsuit for kayaking La Jolla?

Depends on the season and your cold tolerance. Summer water temps (65-72°F) are comfortable in just a swimsuit or rash guard. Winter (57-62°F) definitely requires at least a 3/2mm wetsuit. I wear a spring suit year-round because the water's always cooler than it looks. Pro tip: You'll get wet from paddle drip even on calm days.

Which La Jolla caves can you kayak into?

Only Clam's Cave is regularly accessible by kayak, and only during very calm conditions (less than 1-foot swells). The other six caves are too dangerous for entry due to surge, low ceilings, or narrow entrances. I've seen experienced paddlers get seriously hurt trying to enter caves in marginal conditions. Admire them from outside – it's still spectacular.

Where exactly do I launch my kayak in La Jolla?

The main launch is at La Jolla Shores beach, at the end of Avenida de la Playa. Look for the boat launch area near the lifeguard tower. For a less crowded option, launch from the beach just south of the Marine Room restaurant. Both spots have sandy entries, but watch for shore break during high tide or swells.

Is kayak fishing allowed in La Jolla?

Yes, but with restrictions. The La Jolla Ecological Reserve has no-take zones marked by buoys. Outside the reserve, you're good to fish with a valid California fishing license. The kelp beds north of Scripps Pier hold calico bass, and the deeper waters offshore have yellowtail in summer. Check current regulations and consider a kayak fish finder for better success.

What's the best kayak for La Jolla waters?

Sit-on-top kayaks dominate here for good reason – stable, self-draining, and easy to remount. For cave exploration, a 10-12 foot recreational kayak works best. For longer coastal paddles or fishing, consider a 12-14 foot touring or fishing kayak. Most rental shops offer Ocean Kayak or Hobie models which are perfect for these waters. If buying, check our guide to choosing the right kayak.

How much does it cost to rent a kayak in La Jolla?

Single kayak rentals run $40-60 for 2 hours, $60-80 for half-day. Tandem kayaks cost about 50% more. Guided tours (recommended for first-timers) range from $60-100 per person including gear. Most shops offer online booking discounts. During peak summer weekends, reserve ahead or risk disappointment.

Can I launch my own kayak for free?

Yes! La Jolla Shores is a public beach with free launching. No permits required for hand-launched kayaks. Just pay for parking (or find free street parking) and you're good to go. The boat launch area at the end of Avenida de la Playa is specifically designated for kayak launching.

Are there sharks in La Jolla besides leopard sharks?

Yes, but nothing to worry about. Besides the harmless leopard sharks, you might spot horn sharks, angel sharks, or small smoothhound sharks. Great whites do transit the area (it's the ocean, after all) but attacks on kayakers in La Jolla are virtually unheard of. I've paddled here for 12 years without a single scary encounter. The sea lions are honestly more aggressive than any shark.

What time do the kayak tours leave?

Most tour companies run trips at 9 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM during summer. Sunset tours (around 5:30 PM) are magical but book fast. If you want to avoid tour groups while paddling independently, launch before 8:30 AM or between tour times. The 90-minute tours typically stay between the shores and caves.

Is La Jolla Cove or La Jolla Shores better for kayaking?

Different experiences entirely. La Jolla Shores offers easy launching, calmer waters, and access to caves going south. Perfect for beginners. La Jolla Cove has rocky entries and more exposure but puts you right at the caves. I prefer launching from the Shores for flexibility, but experienced paddlers can handle the Cove launch for shorter cave tours.

Planning Your Trip

Sample Itineraries

Half-Day Adventure

• 7:00 AM: Grab coffee at Better Buzz
• 7:30 AM: Launch from La Jolla Shores
• 8:00-9:30 AM: Paddle caves and look for sharks
• 10:00 AM: Return before winds pick up
• 10:30 AM: Brunch at Shorehouse Kitchen

Full-Day Explorer

• 6:30 AM: Dawn patrol launch
• 7:00-9:00 AM: Morning paddle to caves
• 9:00-10:00 AM: Snorkel with leopard sharks
• 10:00 AM-12:00 PM: Break for early lunch
• 3:00-5:30 PM: Afternoon/sunset paddle north

Photography Focus

• 5:30 AM: Pre-dawn arrival for parking
• 6:00 AM: Launch for sunrise shots
• 6:30-8:30 AM: Golden hour cave photography
• 8:30-9:30 AM: Underwater shark photography
• 10:00 AM: Edit photos at Bird Rock Coffee

Group Considerations

Large groups should book tours – trying to coordinate multiple rentals and launches gets chaotic. For private groups, consider hiring a guide through local shops. They'll customize the route and handle logistics.

If organizing your own group:

• Maximum 6 kayaks to keep together
• Designate a sweep paddler
• Bring marine radios for communication
• Brief everyone on hand signals

Solo Paddling Notes

I solo paddle La Jolla often, but take extra precautions:

• Always file a float plan (tell someone your route)
• Stick to familiar areas
• Carry a marine radio or PLB
• Avoid caves when alone
• Stay within swimming distance of shore

The lifeguards at La Jolla Shores are excellent and monitor the area, but don't rely on them exclusively.

Bottom Line

La Jolla offers world-class kayaking in an incredibly accessible package. Where else can you paddle through sea caves, swim with sharks, and grab fish tacos all before lunch? After hundreds of paddles here, I'm still discovering new corners and experiences.

The key to enjoying La Jolla kayaking is respecting the ocean and timing your visit right. Come early, check conditions, and don't push beyond your abilities. The caves and sharks will be there tomorrow if conditions aren't right today.

Whether you're working on your eskimo roll in the protected waters or just floating above leopard sharks with a GoPro, La Jolla delivers experiences that keep us coming back. The morning glass-off, the curious sea lions, the way sunlight illuminates the caves – it never gets old.

See you on the water! And remember – if you see someone in a blue Wilderness Systems kayak getting sprayed by a sea lion, that's probably me. Paddle over and say hi!

Affiliate Disclosure: I may earn a commission from Amazon purchases through links in this article, which helps support free guides like this. I only recommend gear I actually use on the water.