I’m so excited to share another Insta-Worthy neighborhood in San Diego with you guys! This roundup will be my top 5 places to visit in La Jolla, CA. With each location I’ll share my insider tips for visiting to ensure you capture the perfect Insta-Worthy photo.
Two of these places have been on my list for years, so putting this post together really gave me the motivation to do some touristy things in the city I call home. It doesn’t matter if you’re a local or a visitor there is something for everyone on this list.
And if you’re looking for more places to visit be sure to check out my full list of Insta-Worthy spots in San Diego here and my South Park roundup here.
Get ready to scroll & pin. Without further ado… here is my La Jolla roundup.
Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier
Address: 8560 Kennel Way La Jolla, CA 92037
Us locals refer to it as Scripps Pier for short. This pier is number one on my list and a MUST see if you’ve never visted before. I’ve visited nearby places many times but never really took my time to visit the pier itself. Boy what a mistake, because it’s absolutely stunning! If you don’t believe me check out some of my pictures.
Believe me now?!
TIPS for visiting, go during fall or winter months. Most tourists have left San Diego and beaches are less crowded. I’d also recommend visiting on a weekday versus a weekend. If you can go midday that would be your best option, but I was still able to get stunning pictures just before sunset without passerbyers in my shot.
You can find paid parking in the Southeast lot located on the corner of La Jolla Shores Drive and El Paseo Grande. Type Scripps Seaside Forum into Google maps to get you closest to this parking lot. Or you can try your luck with free parking along El Paseo Grande.
BONUS you can also capture some amazing lifeguard tower shots on your way to the pier. I’d also suggest packing a picnic and staying to watch the sunset to really get the full San Diego experience.
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La Valencia Hotel
Address: 1132 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
TIPS for visiting, I’d highly recommend visiting midweek. I went with a fellow blogger on a random Tuesday. We popped in for drinks and we basically had the entire place to ourselves. The outdoor patio has the most stunning views; palm trees surrounding the pool overlooking the ocean. Yes, please! You could say we were in blogger heaven! Also, I’d dress to impress. This hotel is so elegant and let’s be honest we could all use an excuse to get dolled up.
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Favorite Color Wall
Address: 7596 Eads Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
Ok, you’ll see this location on many blogs but that’s because it’s so darn cute. I just had to include it on my list of Insta-Worthy places. It’s located in residential area and tucked away behind a wall of planters. So if you are one of those people who is shy or embarrassed to take photos in public, don’t fret you’ll have some privacy while you snap that the perfect IG pic that’s sure brighten up your feed.
TIPS for visiting, parking is easy and free! You will likely find a spot within a few feet of the art installation. I visited mid-week just before sunset and I had the entire place to myself! However, I wouldn’t anticipate a line to take pictures here any day of the week.
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Torrey Pines Glider Port
Address: 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive La Jolla, CA 92037
This might be the coolest spot on my list. Most people have never heard of the Glider Port and I still consider it a hidden gem in San Diego. You can visit any day of the week and have the best ocean views from your car! You heard that right, you don’t even have to leave your car for breathtaking views. I forgot to mention there are always paragliders showing off their skills so I’d highly recommend visiting just to check them out.
TIPS for visiting, parking is FREE and there is plenty of it if you don’t mind driving and parking in a dirt lot. While you visit be sure to stop by the Cliffhanger Café for some small eats and coffee. You can grab a seat and sip your coffee while you watch the paragliders illuminate the sky. Or you can park just north of the café and have a romantic picnic with similar views and never have to step foot out of your car!
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Hidden Swing
Address: 2555 Ruette Nice, La Jolla, CA 92037
Last but not least on my list is the infamous hidden swing in La Jolla. Note there are at least three ‘hidden swings’ in La Jolla, but, I’m showing ya’ll the easiest one to get to. You can type in the address above and google maps will direct you to the closest parking lot, Birch Aquarium’s Visitor Lot. Here you can park for FREE and you’ll have just a short 1-minute walk up a hill directly to the swing. From this parking lot you can’t miss the trail to the top. I promise!
This swing is magical! It’s colorful, vibrant and it has a million dollar view. It’s nestled under a large tree overlooking the ocean. No wonder it’s such a popular spot to take photos.
TIPS for visiting, TBH you’ll need lots and lots of patience. There will likely be a line of people waiting to take photos especially if you plan to visit close to sunset. Which I would highly recommend because your pictures will be AMAZING! But plan to take friends or a significant other to keep you company while you wait. I waited about 20-30 minutes midweek, but would expect the line to be longer on weekends.
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That’s a wrap ladies and gents! I hope you visit these Insta-Worthy gems and love this list as much as I do! Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram if you’ve checked out any of my recommendations. It would literally make my day to hear from you!
What’s the next city or San Diego neighborhood you’d like an Insta-Worthy roundup from? Leave a comment below.
Happy exploring!!!
