Children's Pool: A Beach Shared by Humans and Harbor Seals
Observe playful harbor seals at La Jolla's Children's Pool, a unique coastal experience with stunning views and controversial history.
Originally built as a safe swimming area for children, Children's Pool in La Jolla is now a popular spot to observe harbor seals in their natural habitat. A seawall constructed in 1931 created a protected cove, but over time, the beach has become a haul-out spot for seals, leading to ongoing debate about its use.
A brief summary to Children's Pool La Jolla
- 834 Coast S Blvd, La Jolla, La Jolla, California, 92037, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and during peak season, to find parking.
- Bring a camera to capture the seals frolicking on the beach, but remember to keep a respectful distance.
- Walk along Coast Boulevard to La Jolla Cove to see sea lions and explore tide pools at Shell Beach.
- Check the tide charts for low tide to explore the tide pools near South Casa Beach, located behind the lifeguard tower.
Getting There
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Walking
From the heart of La Jolla Village, walk south along Girard Avenue, then turn left onto Coast Boulevard. Continue along Coast Boulevard for approximately half a mile to reach Children's Pool. The walk offers scenic coastal views and takes about 10-15 minutes.
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Public Transport
From San Diego, take the Route 30 bus towards La Jolla. Get off at the Silverado St & Herschel Av stop in La Jolla. From there, walk south on Herschel Avenue, turn left onto Coast Boulevard, and continue for a few minutes to reach Children's Pool. The bus fare is typically $2-$5.
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Driving
From I-5, take the La Jolla Village Drive exit and head west. Turn left onto Torrey Pines Road, then right onto Prospect Street. Continue on Prospect Street until you reach Coast Boulevard, then turn left. Children's Pool will be on your right. Parking can be challenging, especially during peak season. Street parking is available but limited to 2-3 hours. Paid parking lots are located on Prospect Street and adjacent streets, with rates around $5 for all-day parking at Ace Parking (875 Prospect Street).
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
South Casa Beach
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La Jolla Woman's Club
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Orli La Jolla
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Boomer Beach
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Mary, Star of the Sea Catholic Church
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Tombstones memorials
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The Cave Store
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Redwood Hollow Cottages
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San Diego - La Jolla Underwater Park
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La Jolla Gravity Hill
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Windansea Park
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Windansea Beach
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La Jolla Shores Beach
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lifeguard Tower Children's Pool
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Shell Beach
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La Jolla Historical Society
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La Jolla Historical Society Wisteria Cottage Museum
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Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
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St. James by-the-Sea Episcopal Church
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La Jolla cove
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Athenaeum Music & Arts Library
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Warwick's
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Ellen Browning Scripps Park
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La Jolla Recreation Center
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Legends Gallery
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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francesca's
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LF Stores
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Geppetto's - La Jolla
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GracieJames Co.
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SHADE boutique
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La Jolla's Best
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La Sala Lounge
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Hiatus Pool Lounge
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West Bar
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Shooters
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