Shopping in Downtown La Jolla

La Jolla isn’t only known for its shopping - it’s also a great destination for foodies. The area’s proximity to the coast means there’s plenty of excellent seafood, but you’ll also find outstanding options for Mexican and Italian alongside classic American brunch spots and cafes.

Here are a few of my favorite places to eat that don’t require much of a detour from the stores.

Shopping in La Jolla is Right next to the Ocean

Georges at the Cove

All along Prospect Street, you’ll find upscale restaurants that offer delicious food with stunning views of the ocean. If you’re looking to celebrate a milestone or just indulge in some true luxury, these dining options are the perfect choice!

One of the most iconic restaurants along this stretch, and one I love, is Georges at the Cove. The food is worth the visit alone, but the real draw here is the view, which I find unbeatable on a nice day. Rooftop dining at the restaurant’s Ocean Terrace elevates things even further.

If you’re looking for a romantic spot for your next date or the perfect pick for a girls’ brunch by the cove, this is the place!

The Iconic Spot Restaurant and Tavern in La Jolla

The Spot La Jolla

Sometimes, I’m just in the mood for a solid, old-school pub. That’s exactly what you’ll get at The Spot, where you’ll find Chicago-style pizza, build-your-own burgers, and other classic staples of a bar and grill menu.

Pub food pairs perfectly with The Spot’s bar, with wine, craft cocktails, and refreshing beer on tap. There are few better places to grab a beer and burger by La Jolla’s coastline in my opinion.

Sun Setting Over the Village of La Jolla

Catania

San Diego’s Little Italy neighborhood has tons of amazing Italian restaurants, many of which make our team’s list of the best things to do in Little Italy. But you don’t have to head downtown to get great Italian food thanks to La Jolla’s own Catania.

This is an upscale eatery on the top floor of La Plaza Center. Its location means Catania boasts some amazing views of the La Jolla Cove which will leave you feeling like you’re at the restaurant’s namesake shores of Sicily.

If you’ve read any of my articles on the best malls in San Diego, you’ll know pretty quickly that I’m not a huge shopper myself. But I do love bringing my family out to San Diego’s malls and shopping areas for the experiences that are part of each location.

La Jolla’s bright, charming streets and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal place to visit with family. No matter what your kids like to do, there’s sure to be something to enjoy nearby!

Small Rock Cave at the La Jolla Cove

La Jolla’s Incredible Beaches

When we’re talking about Downtown La Jolla, I know that we’re not far from some incredible beaches!

In between shopping and a lunch or coffee I suggest you take a quick detour down the stairs to the Children’s Pool Beach, where your little ones will enjoy meeting the neighborhood’s famed seal colony. If your kids are older, you might even try going snorkeling at La Jolla Cove!

Entrance to the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, Downtown

Museums & More!

If you’re looking for something fun to do indoors, head to the Museum of Contemporary Art on Prospect Street in La Jolla. Not only does this museum have a rotating selection of modern art exhibits, but it also has incredible ocean views. They even offer free admission for visitors under 25 years old, which makes it an ideal activity to enjoy with your kids.

For the best savings on activities in and around La Jolla consider picking up a Go City San Diego pass in advance with our discount code GVSD5OFF, which adds an exclusive additional savings when you combine attractions and gear rentals for activities like snorkeling or paddle boarding.

The Go City San Diego All-inclusive pass is my suggestion as it includes access to over 50 attractions and experiences in greater San Diego, including museums, The San Diego Zoo and LEGOLAND California – fun in La Jolla and beyond!

Dr Seuss How the Grinch Stole Christmas at the Old Globe

The Home of Dr. Seuss

Families who are fans of Dr. Seuss will want to check out the Legends Gallery on Prospect Street. The gallery is one of the only places where you can find real Dr. Seuss artwork, including illustrations and sculptures.

Dr. Seuss lived in La Jolla for most of his life, and was very inspired by the area’s natural beauty. If you’re willing to venture further north to the University of California, you’ll find the Geisel Library, which hosts the Dr. Seuss collection and is an architecturally significant building in its own right.

Kids Love the Candy Store in the Village of La Jolla

Family Shopping and Dining

There’s also plenty of family friendly shopping and dining in La Jolla, so you can enjoy everything the area has to offer even if you have kids in tow. Gepetto’s is an incredible local toy store, and Warwick’s has a full selection of kids’ books to peruse.

If your kids are craving a sweet treat on your shopping day, don’t worry - there are plenty of excellent options to choose from! Bobboi Natural Gelato is right on the water and is a great way to cool off on a hot day. For a vintage candy shop experience, head to Balboa Candy, which is known for their incredible saltwater taffy.

Need directions or tips for finding parking? We’ve got you covered.

Easy to Find

If you are coming from Downtown San Diego or any of its suburbs, the fastest way to get to the area is by car via theInterstate 5 to the La Jolla Parkway exit. Follow the parkway as it turns into Torrey Pines Road, which will take you to Girard Street.

I’ve had trouble finding parking on Girard or Prospect Street on busier days, especially on weekends and during San Diego’s busy tourist season, so don’t be afraid to look on side streets. Many of the nearby residential neighborhoods will have free parking options. There are also some metered parking spaces, and many local hotels also offer paid garage parking.

San Diego Trolley at the Gaslamp Quarter Station

Other Options

If you prefer to take public transit, the MTS 30 bus connects Downtown La Jolla with Downtown San Diego as well as many other key neighborhoods like Old Town San Diego, Pacific Beach, and UC San Diego. There are also many other bus lines that connect to this one. You can purchase fares at trolley stations or by using their smartphone app.

As of 2021, the trolley line has been extended to La Jolla’s neighbor University City, with the UTC Transit Center right next to the Westfield UTC Mall if you want to extend your shopping spree!

You could also consider taking a Lyft, Uber, or other rideshare service to get to La Jolla. Fares are relatively low and you won’t have to worry about finding a parking space.

La Jolla’s downtown is a popular tourist destination, and it can get very busy. Here’s what you should know before you go.

Fountain in Front of Morgan Stanley in the Village of La Jolla

Best Time for a Visit

My favorite time of year to visit the area is in the spring or fall. “May Grey” and “June Gloom” cause cloudy weather, which makes it feel a touch cooler and crowds can be a bit less as well.

Honestly though, La Jolla is a year-round neighborhood so the best time to visit is when you have the chance!

Consider a Reservation

Restaurants in La Jolla can get crowded, especially on weekends. Consider making a reservation if you’re visiting during a peak time.

What to Wear for the Trip

The Village of La Jolla is situated on cliffs overlooking the ocean. If you’re going to be walking down to the shore, make sure you’re wearing appropriate footwear. You may also want to consider bringing a swimsuit and towel if the weather’s nice - and what I love about San Diego is that it usually is!

Bring Your Bike

Downtown La Jolla is very bike-friendly. While the surrounding area is very hilly, consider bringing your bike for your day of shopping and exploring, or renting a bike through the Go City San Diego pass.

Octopus Medalion Compass Rose at La Jolla Shores

Respect the Wildlife

When spending time at the beach, be sure to be respectful of the local wildlife and leave things as you found them.