Discover the Tranquility of Shell Beach
Explore the hidden gem of Shell Beach in La Jolla, California, where stunning ocean views, tide pools, and tranquility await.
Nestled in the picturesque Village of La Jolla, Shell Beach is a hidden gem that offers visitors stunning ocean views, serene tide pools, and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re looking to sunbathe, picnic, or explore the fascinating marine life, this beach has something for everyone.
A brief summary to Shell Beach
- San Diego, Village of La Jolla, California, US
Local tips
- Visit during low tide for the best experience exploring the tide pools.
- Bring water shoes if you plan to explore the rocky areas.
- Arrive early to secure a good spot, as parking can fill up quickly.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, as there are limited food options nearby.
- Check the tide schedule before you visit to plan your day effectively.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from central San Diego, head north on I-5. Take exit 26 for La Jolla Village Drive and turn left onto La Jolla Village Drive. Continue straight until you reach Torrey Pines Road, where you'll turn right. Follow Torrey Pines Road until you reach the coast. Turn left onto Coast Boulevard and follow it until you reach the parking area for Shell Beach. Note that parking may require a fee, typically $1-2 per hour.
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Public Transportation
To reach Shell Beach via public transit, take the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) bus. From downtown San Diego, board the bus number 30 at the Broadway & 1st Avenue stop. Ride the bus until you reach the La Jolla Village Drive & Torrey Pines Road stop. From there, transfer to bus number 101 towards La Jolla. Get off at the Coast Boulevard stop, and it’s a short walk to Shell Beach. Make sure to check the MTS website for the latest schedules and fares, which are generally around $2.50 for a one-way ticket.
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Bicycle
For those who prefer cycling, La Jolla offers bike-friendly routes. You can rent a bike from various rental shops in the area. Start from La Jolla Cove and head north along Coast Boulevard, which takes you directly to Shell Beach. This route is scenic and safe, but be cautious of pedestrian traffic along the beachfront. Ensure you have a bike lock to secure your bike while you enjoy the beach.
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Walking
If you're staying nearby in the La Jolla area, Shell Beach is accessible by foot. From La Jolla Cove, simply walk west along the coastal path. The walk is approximately 0.5 miles and offers stunning ocean views. Follow the signs to Shell Beach, and be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the path can be uneven in certain areas.
Discover more about Shell Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Boomer Beach
0.3 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Boomer Beach in La Jolla, San Diego, where golden sands, stunning sunsets, and a vibrant community await you.
South Casa Beach
0.4 km
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Tombstones memorials
0.4 km
Explore the Tombstones Memorials in La Jolla, a serene tribute to legendary watermen, beautifully set against California's stunning coastline.
La Jolla Woman's Club
0.5 km
Experience the elegance and community spirit of La Jolla Woman's Club - a historic venue that embodies the charm of California's coastal culture.
Sunny Jim's Sea Cave
0.6 km
Explore Sunny Jim's Sea Cave in La Jolla, a unique natural wonder showcasing stunning coastal views and diverse marine life.
The Cave Store
0.6 km
Discover The Cave Store in La Jolla, California – a unique blend of adventure, shopping, and breathtaking coastal views.
Orli La Jolla
0.6 km
Discover unparalleled luxury and comfort at Orli La Jolla, your perfect coastal retreat in sunny California, where vibrant culture meets stunning natural beauty.
The Wedding Bowl
0.6 km
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Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church
0.6 km
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La Jolla Recreation Center
0.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse recreational offerings at La Jolla Recreation Center, nestled in the beautiful coastal community of La Jolla, San Diego.
Cuvier Park
0.7 km
Explore Cuvier Park in La Jolla, California—a stunning coastal retreat for nature lovers and tourists alike, featuring breathtaking ocean views and serene landscapes.
Redwood Hollow Cottages
1.0 km
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San Diego - La Jolla Underwater Park
1.4 km
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La Jolla Gravity Hill
1.8 km
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La Jolla Shores Beach
2.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
La Jolla cove
0.2 km
Experience sun, sea lions, and stunning views at La Jolla Cove—a paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Ellen Browning Scripps Park
0.2 km
Ellen Browning Scripps Park in La Jolla, CA, offers breathtaking ocean views and stunning landscapes perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Children's Pool La Jolla
0.3 km
Experience the tranquility of Children's Pool La Jolla, where sun, surf, and seals create unforgettable coastal memories.
Athenaeum Music & Arts Library
0.3 km
Explore art and music at the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library, La Jolla's cultural haven for creativity and learning.
Lifeguard Tower Children's Pool
0.3 km
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L&G Projects
0.3 km
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La Jolla Cove Bridge Club
0.3 km
Experience the thrill of bridge in a stunning coastal setting at La Jolla Cove Bridge Club, where ocean views meet a vibrant card-playing community.
Seal Rock
0.3 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Seal Rock in La Jolla, a tranquil island paradise perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Lifeguard La Jolla Cove
0.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of La Jolla Cove, a coastal paradise in California, perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Legends Gallery
0.4 km
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La Jolla Historical Society
0.4 km
Explore the fascinating history of La Jolla at the La Jolla Historical Society, where the past meets the present in a captivating coastal setting.
Warwick's
0.4 km
Explore Warwick's in La Jolla: A haven for book lovers and artists, offering a diverse selection of books, art supplies, and unique gifts.
La Jolla Historical Society Wisteria Cottage Museum
0.4 km
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St. James by-the-Sea Episcopal Church
0.5 km
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Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
0.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Cove House
0.2 km
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NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar
0.2 km
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Birdseye Rooftop Restaurant and Bar
0.2 km
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The Spot La Jolla
0.2 km
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Mediterranean Room
0.2 km
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Cody's La Jolla
0.2 km
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Beeside Balcony
0.2 km
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Richard Walker's Pancake House
0.3 km
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Puesto La Jolla
0.3 km
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Marisi La Jolla
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Marisi La Jolla with stunning views and warm hospitality in the heart of California's beautiful coastline.
Queenstown Village
0.3 km
Experience exquisite New Zealand-inspired cuisine at Queenstown Village, where every meal is crafted with fresh ingredients and served in a vibrant atmosphere.
Catania
0.3 km
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Duke's La Jolla
0.4 km
Experience authentic Hawaiian cuisine at Duke's La Jolla with breathtaking ocean views and vibrant island-inspired decor.
Bistro Pazzo
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George's at the Cove
0.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La Jolla Outpost: Gifts Apparel and Snorkels
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Shirt and Goodies In La Jolla
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La Jolla Gifts & Tobacco
0.2 km
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Sigi's Boutique
0.3 km
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GracieJames Co.
0.3 km
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Whiskey and Leather
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francesca's
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La Jolla's Best
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LF Stores
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2bella Boutique
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Bouluci Boutique
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Julyette - Paris -
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Geppetto's - La Jolla
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Be Boutique
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SHADE boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
La Sala Lounge
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The Whaling Bar
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The Hive La Jolla
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We Olive & Wine Bar
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Hennessey's Tavern
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KnB Bistro
0.8 km
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Nautilus Tavern
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Hiatus Pool Lounge
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West Bar
4.2 km
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West End PB
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Shooters
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Drift La Jolla
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The Duck Dive
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Thrusters Lounge
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Cass Street Bar & Grill
6.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Cass Street Bar & Grill in San Diego's Pacific Beach, where every meal is a celebration.
