Hotels in La Jolla

Unveiling La Jolla: Where Coastal Wonders Meet Cultural Treasures

Nestled along the stunning California coastline, La Jolla is a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural sophistication. Renowned for its picturesque beaches, such as La Jolla Shores and the iconic La Jolla Cove, visitors can enjoy sun-soaked days, snorkelling adventures, and breathtaking sunsets. The vibrant downtown area offers upscale shopping and exquisite dining, while the nearby cliffs and sea caves beckon nature lovers. Home to the esteemed University of California, San Diego, La Jolla seamlessly merges intellectual curiosity with coastal charm, making it an ideal destination for romantic getaways and leisurely explorations alike.

Discover great hotels in La Jolla

La Jolla offers a variety of hotel accommodations, from luxurious oceanfront and beachfront options to charming boutique hotels. Many properties feature amenities like pools, spas, and dining, all set against stunning coastal views, ensuring a welcoming stay in this picturesque seaside village. Here are some of the best hotels in La Jolla that our travellers love:

1. Pacific Shores Inn on Pacific BeachOpens in a new window: This welcoming hotel offers a unique pet-friendly experience, making it perfect for travellers who cherish the company of their furry friends. With its well-designed amenities catering to pets, guests can indulge in a relaxing stay without leaving their pets behind. The property boasts a thoughtful pet policy and amenities, ensuring a seamless experience for both guests and their pets. Travellers appreciate the comfortable accommodations and the warm atmosphere, making it a delightful retreat for those looking to enjoy a vacation with their beloved companions.
2. PB Surf Beachside InnOpens in a new window: This family-oriented hotel stands out for its business-themed focus, making it an ideal choice for frequent travellers. It offers a range of services and facilities designed to cater to the needs of business guests, ensuring a smooth and productive stay. The property also provides thoughtful amenities for children, allowing families to balance work and leisure effortlessly. Guests value the hotel's blend of comfort and functionality, with many highlighting the welcoming environment that makes it easy to unwind after a busy day.
3. Beach Haven - Near Pacific Beach ParkOpens in a new window: This adventure-centric hotel is a haven for thrill-seekers looking to explore the great outdoors. With a variety of exciting activities such as snorkelling, hiking, and surfing available nearby, guests can immerse themselves in the stunning natural surroundings. The accommodation is designed to provide a comfortable base for adventurers, featuring modern amenities that enhance the overall experience. Travellers appreciate the hotel's focus on recreation, with many praising the accessible adventure sports options that make it easy to create unforgettable memories during their stay.

Top locations to stay in La Jolla

When visiting La Jolla, California, consider staying in Del Mar, Mission Beach, or Pacific Beach. Del Mar offers scenic horse riding along the shore, Mission Beach boasts a lively boardwalk and family-friendly attractions, while Pacific Beach features vibrant nightlife and stunning beach views. For first-time visitors, Mission Beach is ideal due to its numerous activities and proximity to local amenities.

1. Pacific BeachOpens in a new window: If you’re looking for a vibrant beach community, Pacific Beach is the place to be. This lively area is known for its stunning sandy shores, ideal for sunbathing and beach activities. The iconic boardwalk is perfect for leisurely strolls or cycling, while the nearby shops offer a variety of unique boutiques and surf shops. As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a lively social scene, with numerous casual eateries and cultural venues hosting live music and events, making it a great spot for both relaxation and fun.
2. Mission BeachOpens in a new window: Mission Beach is a delightful destination for those who love a laid-back beach vibe combined with a dash of excitement. The expansive Mission Beach Boardwalk is perfect for rollerblading or cycling, with the gentle sound of waves as your backdrop. This area has a charming amusement park atmosphere, with fun rides and games, along with access to beautiful beachfront cafes. The nearby Belmont Park is a must-visit for family-friendly attractions, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
3. Del MarOpens in a new window: Del Mar is an elegant coastal community that offers a more tranquil experience for visitors. The picturesque beaches here are perfect for peaceful sunbathing or romantic sunset walks. Known for its upscale shopping and dining options, Del Mar also hosts the famous Del Mar Fairgrounds, where various events and cultural activities take place throughout the year. The area’s charming village feel is complemented by beautiful coastal views, making it an ideal getaway for those looking to relax and indulge in the finer things.

Things to do in La Jolla

La Jolla enchants travellers with its stunning coastal scenery, offering pristine beaches ideal for surfing and sunbathing, while nearby parks invite hiking and exploration. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the ocean, go boating or sea diving, and indulge in birdwatching amidst lush landscapes—this destination is a nature lover's paradise!

• La Jolla CoveOpens in a new window – Dive into the stunning waters of La Jolla Cove, where you can snorkel alongside colourful marine life or simply bask on the sun-kissed rocks. This picturesque bay is a favourite spot for both locals and visitors, offering breathtaking coastal views and opportunities for photography. Don’t miss the chance to spot seals lounging on the shore!
• Mission BeachOpens in a new window – Feel the sand between your toes at Mission Beach, a lively stretch that invites you to sunbathe, swim, or enjoy water sports. With a vibrant boardwalk lined with cafes and shops, it’s the perfect place to grab a bite or rent a bike to explore the scenic coastline.
• Old Town San Diego State ParkOpens in a new window – Step back in time at Old Town San Diego State Park, where you can wander through the historic buildings and learn about California’s early days. Engage with costumed interpreters, shop for unique souvenirs, and indulge in delicious Mexican cuisine at one of the authentic restaurants.
• Hotel CircleOpens in a new window – Journey along Hotel Circle, a bustling road lined with a variety of accommodation options. It’s an ideal base for your adventures, providing easy access to nearby attractions and the San Diego River, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll.
• Mission Beach BoardwalkOpens in a new window – Stroll along the Mission Beach Boardwalk, a lively esplanade perfect for people-watching and enjoying the ocean breeze. With street performers, shops, and eateries dotting the path, it's a delightful way to soak up the beachside atmosphere and watch the sunset paint the sky.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in La Jolla

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit La Jolla is in January, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For those on a budget, staying for at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the area's significant landmarks, historical sites, and cultural offerings. Visitors can enjoy the stunning beaches, picturesque sunsets, and the thrill of surfing, as well as explore the local university and aquarium. Dining options abound, with great value for money seafood available, alongside delightful opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute accommodation deals in La Jolla, explore the Deals or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you don't miss potential savings. The Smart Shopping tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so if rooms become available or prices drop, you could find yourself securing a fantastic last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to various factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay in a La Jolla hotel. For those seeking distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and can sometimes offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price leans towards the higher end, we’ll suggest alternative dates that may be more affordable, helping you to secure the best possible deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to La Jolla's superb public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel slightly further out that remains well connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to La Jolla

La Jolla experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 56.7°F (13.7°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.4°F (23.0°C). December is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in La Jolla, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, with no rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, February, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.