Make the most of La Jolla, known for its natural beauty in an upscale setting, with our all-encompassing guide.
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa’s lush grounds; PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND
This ranch-inspired retreat features a luxury full-service spa, apiary, meditation garden, butterfly sanctuary and a secret speakeasy. Be sure to book reservations at both onsite restaurants, Greenfinch Restaurant & Bar and the Baja-inspired Mustangs & Burros.
A guest room at Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa; PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND
The Hotel La Jolla, a Curio Collection property by Hilton, exhibits refined elegance in a coastal setting thanks to a multimillion-dollar design renovation by Hirsch Bedner Associates. Don’t miss the soon-to-open fine dining spot, Sea & Sky, helmed by James Beard-nominated chef Anthony Wells.
James Beard-nominated chef Anthony Wells will lead the all-new penthouse restaurant, Sea & Sky, at Hotel La Jolla. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND
California’s very own pink palace is home to painted murals, pink golf carts and outstanding seafood at the on-site restaurant, the Mediterranean Room. Grab a classic cocktail in the Hollywood-inspired La Sala Lounge or the recently reopened Whaling Bar before unwinding in a suite complete with lavish amenities, from plush La Valencia robes to C.O. Bigelow bath products.
The posh pink pool deck at La Valencia Hotel; PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND
This chic boutique hotel, founded by brother-sister duo Hailey and Maxwell Waitt, operates out of a former private residence designed by Irving Gill. The property charms guests with an entry library lounge, a courtyard filled with olive trees and complimentary kombucha on tap—with only 13 guest rooms on-site.
This cozy yet luxurious getaway is the perfect place to unwind at the spa, play a round of 18 holes, and dine on locally sourced cuisine at A.R. Valentien or The Grill at Torrey Pines. The Lodge is amply suited for children and families, with nature walks, croquet and a heated pool overlooking the fairway and ocean.
This seaside Michelin Guide-approved gem serves fresh fare such as crispy octopus and artfully plated local tuna crudo topped with beet puree and blood orange. But the housemade pasta and pizza—made on a 5,000-pound wood-burning oven—are not to miss.
The stunning ocean view on each of the restaurant’s three levels is just one of the calling cards of this seaside eatery, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Operating partner Trey Foshee, general manager Mike Grave, executive chef Masa Kojima and pastry chef Aly Lyng allow for smooth sailing in the kitchen, serving fresh, locally sourced seafood alongside an extensive wine list.
Catch can’t-miss ocean views from any of George’s at the Cove’s three dining terraces. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND
Chef Mitsu Aihara brings Japanese culture and cuisine to this intimate San Diego setting—with only nine seats at the bar and 20 on the patio. Indulge in specialty sushi, sashimi, bento boxes and sake upon request.
Marisi La Jolla is known for its outstanding Italian hearth cooking plus homemade limoncello and pasta, plating up delicacies such as decadent Burgundy black truffle and double cream gnocchi by newly appointed executive chef Cameron Ingle.
With a prestigious 2023 Michelin Guide distinction, NINE-TEN offers top-tier food, service and atmosphere off the shores of La Jolla. Enjoy globally inspired, locally sourced dishes such as Jamaican jerk pork belly and pan-roasted Colorado lamb loin topped with citrus pistachio relish.
Paradisaea, a new addition to the 2023 Michelin Guide, thrives on letting natural flavors do the work. Executive chef Jeff Armstrong recently launched an updated menu featuring rich lamb neck tortellini en brodo and amberjack crudo, made from one of the only California seafood markets to sell dry-aged fish.
Paradisaea, a new addition to the 2023 Michelin Guide, boasts bright green interiors with whimsical finishes. PHOTO BY JOHN DOLE
Puesto offers a feast of Mexican favorites, from shared plates of chilaquiles to an assortment of tacos wrapped in fresh corn tortillas. Margaritas—in coconut, mango and spicy serrano chili flavors—are a must to kick off a great meal or keep the party going.
This fresh New Zealand-inspired eatery offers plates of gourmet comfort food, wines by the glass and a bevy of regionally influenced cocktails. Sip on a coconut rum-based Wild Kiwi while waiting for your order of NZ onion dip, seasoned fatty fries and parlor pot pie.
As waves dramatically splash over the front windows, dine on freshly prepared seafood while sipping a signature cocktail like the St-Germain-focused Shore Spritz. Booking a reservation during sunset offers a special treat of cotton-candy skies and sparkling waters, making this one of the dreamiest dining spots in La Jolla.
The Marine Room is a La Jolla staple for stunning views and incredible seafood. PHOTO BY JENNIFER RUBIN PHOTOGRAPHY
At La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, spending time outdoors ranges from a quick game of tennis to surf lessons, kayaking and scuba diving. After a day of fun in the sun, reserve a beach barbecue grill and table for an unforgettable cookout on the sand.
Whether you’re catching waves or hosting an oceanside barbecue, play all day at La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND
TORREY PINES STATE NATURAL RESERVE
Wander along Torrey Pines—one of only 16 natural reserves in California—through scenic trails offering a wide variety of wildlife and stunning views of the Pacific coastline. Stop by the Visitor’s Center beforehand for more information on the area’s natural and cultural history.
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