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

Wed 04 Jun

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $70.00

Make a reservation

Wed 04 Jun

Starting at $70.00

Make a reservation

Sevierville Tours

Entry Tickets (2) Seasonal & Holiday Tours (1) Walking Tours (2) Outdoor Activities (2) Travelers recommend (12) Top Activities (3) Art, Culture & History (1) DSA non-compliant (2)

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)

debrat686

Oct 2023

Great walking tour of La Jolla with extensive history of the city, Ellen Scripps’ investment in the community and much more. Chas shared detailed history, pointed out old and new buildings, shared great places to eat and shop, including a walk along the coast to see the beautiful view of the ocean, bluffs, flowers and sea lions. He also had photos from years ago to compare current buildings with what they looked like years ago. The tour description accurately indicates a four mile walk and participants should be in good physical condition which was not a problem for us but could be for some. Chas had excellent pre-tour communication with us and provided several lunch recommendations based on our food preferences. Highly recommend this tour to anyone who wants to learn more about the beautiful La Jolla area.

Linda L

Oct 2023

I arrived in town the night before a conference that started the next afternoon and I wanted to see as much of LaJolla as I could before the conference started. It turned out I was the only one who signed up for the morning tour and Viator allowed it to proceed which is to their credit. Chas was a great tour guide who pointed out information about the development of LaJolla and emphasized its early reputation as a woman's town since women such as Ellen Scripps played an influential role in its growth. In addition to seeing historic buildings, a good part of the tour took place on the coastal walk where the views were breathtaking. Of course, I saw seals, sea lions and many coastal birds and flowers. The tour was extremely worthwhile and I highly recommend Chas as a tour guide.

Response from Host

Oct 2023

Thank you Linda. It was a pleasure meeting you and I’m very glad you enjoyed the tour. I hope the lunch suggestions helped you find something equally enjoyable. -Chas.

A6153POedm

Oct 2023

My husband and I had a wonderful tour today, 10/09/23! The weather was cloudy but nice. La Jolla is such a beautiful city and come to find our so rich in history! Chas Dye, our tour guide is excellent! He is friendly, knowledgeable, receptive, entertaining and patient. We must have stopped 20x or more on the way to take selfies! He also showed us all the wonderful places to eat lunch. We highly recommend Chas and this walking tour!