Historic La Jolla Walking Tour

Overview

We are the Original and top rated La Jolla walking tour. Learn the rich history of La Jolla. Uncover hidden gems and “Easter Eggs”. Score tailored dining and activity advice.

Sea Lions, philanthropists, murderers, fault lines, and awe-inspiring women — we have it all. Our most enthusiastic reviews are from locals, and we guarantee you’ll learn at least 5 new things, even if you grew up here.

All this is punctuated with numerous historic images of the early days.

We cover approximately 3 leisurely miles and walk a total of about 40 stairs (down). We traverse the heart of the village, and the highlights of the coast. There are some hills so if you have concerns or seek more detail feel free to contact us.

The standard tour is neither wheelchair nor stroller accessible, but we can EASILY design a custom tour tailored to your interests and abilities.

We love to present our little seaside hamlet.

City: La Jolla

Sat 07 Jun

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $70.00

Make a reservation

Sat 07 Jun

Starting at $70.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

Numerous gems unknown even to locals

Overview of Ellen Scripps’ many contributions

Many fun facts

Background on architecture

Additional Info

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Not recommended for travelers with walking problems.
Not recommended for children under 10

What To Expect

La Jolla Recreation Center

One of Ellen Scripps’ many gifts to La Jolla. We learn what makes it unique.

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

We will not tour the museum, but it is the site of Ellen Scripps’ home in La Jolla, which is incorporated into the museum.

La Jolla Historical Society

The La Jolla Historical Society is housed in Wisteria Cottage, which was the residence of Ellen Scripps’ half-sister Virginia (Jenny). We won’t go in the museum, but you will learn how Wisteria Cottage has been used over the years, as well as fun facts about Jenny.

St James by-The-Sea Episcopal Church

St. James by the Sea is a beautiful church. But what stands there now is not the original structure. Where did it go?

Girard Avenue and Prospect Street

Ground Zero La Jolla. There is a lot of history at and near this intersection, and we have the photos to prove it!

The Cave Store

The Cave Store is the second longest continuously operating enterprise in La Jolla (we’ll see the oldest too). You’ll learn why the original owner decided to build a tunnel to Sunny Jim’s cave, and who was Sunny Jim anyway?

La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove is the site of caves, sea lions, cormorant rookeries, and unparalleled beauty.

Ellen Browning Scripps Park

South of La Jolla Cove, this park stretches between La Jolla Cove and Children’s Pool and is one of the most beautiful parts of La Jolla.

Children's Pool

The last thing Ellen Scripps gave to La Jolla while she was still alive. Beautiful break wall and lots of seals.

Coast Boulevard Park

We’ll see The Wedding Bowl and the La Jolla Tide Pools

Show 7 more stops

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (107)

D7181ROkatherines

Nov 2023

Our experience was awesome!!! Chas was so knowledgeable and did a great job teaching us about the history of La Jolla. We walked about 4 miles and really covered a lot of territory and history. I would not miss this experience to learn about and see highlights of La Jolla!

Dianne F

Nov 2023

Chas was very thorough and knowledgeable about the history of La Jolla. We appreciate that he is a member of the La Jolla historical society. Just be advised that there are quite a few hills on this walking tour. Our one suggestion for Chas would be to moderate his walking pace for the tour participants.

Response from Host

Dec 2023

Thank you Dianne. That is helpful feedback.

Anna O

Nov 2023

We truly enjoyed our tour of La Jolla. Chas was very knowledgeable and showed us so many historical sites we would never had known existed. We highly recommend this tour!