The Attractive Tourist Activity of Snorkeling at La Jolla Cove

Snorkeling is a great activity for both locals and tourists that helps connect to nature while improving health. In California coastal life, snorkeling is a favorite activity of water lovers. Few things are better than being outside in the warm weather and plunging into the ocean to see the world that exists under the waves. La Jolla Cove is considered one of the best places to snorkel in Southern California. 

The rock reefs are close to the beach requiring only a few feet of swimming before seeing the wildlife. Even though there are more advanced places to snorkel, the cove offers calm waters, life guards, and all the amenities for beginners. Because one can paddle around the cove without much effort most age ranges enjoy snorkeling at the cove. This is one reason why visitors flock to the area.  

To the north are rock formations you can swim out and crawl upon. Try and be safe as the ocean waves can push you right into rocks so it is best to try and climb on them from behind to protect yourself. The ocean currents are strong enough to move you a foot or so in either direction. 

There are lots of great underwater rock formations, shells, and a variety of fish in the area. I’m not that familiar with all of the different types of fish but you can see a range of them in La Jolla Cove. Lying around the cove is Sea Lions that occasional jump in the water and swim right next to you. I’ve heard it is best to keep your distance.

You can see an abundance of orange Garibaldi fish. The males are known to protect female eggs until they hatch and they will bit if the nest is threatened (1). The Garibaldi is also the state fish of California and is protected under law. When I tried to touch one it swam out of my reach, stopped and looked at me as though I was stupid. Seemed to be a fearless fish! 

One of the detractors of the cove is that the beach is small and the tide can move all the way up to the rocks depending on the time. On busy days you aren’t likely to have as much fun as you would if you go down early in the morning at a time when only a few people are around. You will notice the snorkelers and divers making their way to the cove to act as a launching point for destinations unknown. 

La Jolla is an ideal tourist location and snorkeling is just one activity that enhances the tourist experience. A study of tourists found that activities such as swimming, snorkeling and other water sports contributed to tourist satisfaction (Lacher & Harrill, 2010). Nontraditional activities such as city tours, safaris and the like are growing in popularity but pale in comparison to traditional summer fun. If you are giving advice on having fun to visitors this is where you may want to point them.

Whether you are a tourist, a host to outside friends, or just want to enjoy the coast life for yourself I suggest you try snorkeling at least once. On warm days you can still enjoy lying on the beach while engaging in some activity that will help you stay in shape and provide a positive experience. You might want to purchase a disposable waterproof camera for your trip. The one I used was a digital camera as I spend considerable time in or near the water. 

Lacher, G. & Harrill, R. (2010). Going beyond sun, sand, and surf? An importance-performance analysis of activities in a 3S resort destination. E-review of Tourism Research, 8 (4). 

Just South of La Jolla Cove and Beyond the Sandy Beach Pictures

Just down the coast from La Jolla Cove is another beach that attracts local and out of town visitors. Walking along the slippery ocean covered rocks you will come to a few enclaves that contain the tide’s residue of sea life and wonders. The sun sparkles off of the ripples of small wading pools while sea creatures wait for their return home. 

Clams huddle together and starfish kiss the rocks. Nature’s handiwork creates smooth stones that resemble water washed deserts. As the ocean waves assault the coast a few visitors have traversed hopping stones to make their way to new sites by anyone but locals. 

Enjoy the pictures

 

 

Georges on the Cove-Terrace Dining Experience

George’s on the Cove offers a fine dining experience in the price range of $20 to $35 per person. As the evening ocean air makes its way up the cliff and the sounds of ruffling waves dash against the cove walls you can be dining in style. You won’t miss a single shooting star under the nighttime canopy on the third floor terrace.

George’s on the Cove has three levels which include the basement, mid floor and the upper deck. Both the upper deck and the mid floor areas have access to cove views. Each floor contains a bar and their own chef. If you don’t like the offerings on one floor you may consider checking the menu on one of the others. If you’re just looking for a place to drink wine you can sit in the plush cellar on the lower floor.

Lunch specials are $10 to $15 with items like the Mediterranean Grilled Vegetables for $14 made with hummus, tzatziki, house made pita. Evening dining ranges from $17 to $27 per person. You might want to try the Spaghetti with Clams for $20 made with toasted garlic, roasted tomatoes, white wine, and extra virgin olive oil. By-the-glass wine is within a few dollars of $10.

Spaghetti with Clams

The area is well serviced and even though it was very busy when we attended a table was promptly cleared. We made a special request to sit next to the railing to watch the ocean and that was promptly offered with a short delay. Food appeared to be well prepared and full of detailed flavor. An outside glass half-wall protected us from the wind while a heat lamp warmed the tabled. A definite destination for both locals and tourists.