The Original La Jolla Walking Tour

133 Reviews 4.95 out of 5 stars Based on 133 adventurer reviews collected by Top10Adventures® and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This adventure is highly rated and has met our top quality standards.
La Jolla, USA

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Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 27 (0) days in advance.

120 to 135 minutes (approx.)
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Offered in: English

Overview

Discover La Jolla through the eyes of a local who is deeply involved in the community. This leisurely three-mile tour takes you from the charming Village to the breathtaking coastline, uncovering hidden gems and iconic landmarks along the way.

With more than 100 five-star reviews, this is by FAR La Jolla's highest-rated walking tour. Guests consistently praise the engaging storytelling, insider knowledge, and personalized recommendations.

As someone who holds elected leadership positions, I offer a perspective beyond guidebooks. You'll hear fascinating stories about the people and events that shaped La Jolla -— from visionary philanthropists to infamous criminals, —while also gaining insight into the issues and, concerns shaping La Jolla today.

Whether you're a local or visiting for the first time you'll gain a rich understanding of this extraordinary seaside community, along with personalized recommendations for restaurants, beaches, and activities tailored to your interests.

What's Included

  • Numerous gems unknown even to locals
  • Overview of Ellen Scripps’ many contributions
  • Many fun facts

    Meeting Location

    Meeting point

    615 Prospect Street
    La Jolla, CA 92037, USA

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    Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

    End point

    This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    What To Expect

    Book Online

    Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your adventure begins.
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    Safe & secure • Easy breezy • Hassle-free

    La Jolla Recreation Center

    One of Ellen Scripps’ many gifts to La Jolla. We learn what makes it unique.
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    10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    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.
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    5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    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.
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    5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    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?
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    5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    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!
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    10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    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?
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    5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    La Jolla Cove

    La Jolla Cove is the site of caves, sea lions, cormorant rookeries, and unparalleled beauty.
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    15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    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.
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    20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    Children's Pool

    The last thing Ellen Scripps gave to La Jolla while she was still alive. Beautiful break wall and lots of seals.
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    5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    Coast Boulevard Park (pass by)

    We’ll see The Wedding Bowl and the La Jolla Tide Pools
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    Show 9 more stops

    Additional Info

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travelers with walking problems.
    • Not recommended for children under 10
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

    Frequently Asked Questions

    (7)

    Q: What is the cancellation policy for the The Original La Jolla Walking Tour?

    A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the adventure for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the adventure start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the adventure start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the adventure start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the adventure local time (PDT). Read more Apr 2025

    Cancellation Policy

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the adventure for a full refund.

    Still have questions?

    We're here to help.
    Activity code: C-410692P2

    Traveler Photos

    Reviews

    4.95
    133 reviews

    Average 4.95 out of 5 stars based on 133 adventurer reviews collected by Top10Adventures® and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

    5 stars
    127
    4 stars
    6
    3 stars
    0
    2 stars
    0
    1 star
    0

    Loading Options
    Don't miss out!
    On average, this is booked 27 (0) days in advance.

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    What's Included

    Activity name

    • Numerous gems unknown even to locals
    • Overview of Ellen Scripps’ many contributions
    • Many fun facts
    • Background on architecture

    Additional Info

    Activity name

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Not recommended for travelers with walking problems.
    • Not recommended for children under 10
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

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    Free Cancellation

    100% refund
    No refund

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the adventure for a full refund.

    • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the adventure start time.
    • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the adventure start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
    • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the adventure start time will not be accepted.
    • Cut-off times are based on the adventure local time (PDT).
    • This adventure requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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