Known as the Jewel by the Sea, La Jolla is one of the most beautiful beach destinations in California where cliff-top vistas offer breathtaking views. Our wedding venue is right in the heart of the La Jolla Cove, one of San Diego's most photographed areas. La Jolla Cove is famous for its sea lions, and it’s the best place to go if you want to see them in their natural habitat. La Jolla Cove is home to a "rookery", where sea lions give birth to and nurse their pups. Naturally, you can spot dozens of baby seals hanging out on the rocks or playing in the water. Check out these lil stinkers while you're in town!
If you're visiting from out of town, you might be amazed at the wildlife you'll see kayaking in the La Jolla Cove as it boasts one of the highest concentrations of sea life in all of California. We have seen dolphins, garibaldis, sea turtles, and even orcas right in this inlet of ocean! If you're up for a challenge, try exploring all 7 of the La Jolla Caves.
OK - we've never actually done this, but we've always wanted to! We're both giving a big ol' smooch (or a high five and lots of kudos, whichever you prefer) to whoever makes this dream adventure a reality during their visit to San Diego.
Balboa Park is a public park with free access to the grounds, all day every day. With several museums (SD Museum of Art, Museum of Us, the Nat), the world-famous San Diego Zoo, places to eat (Panama 66, Japanese Tea Garden Tea Pavilion, El Prado), and various places for pics or picnics, you could fill the larger part of your day exploring! This is a MUST DO.
With a short and very steep drive up to the Mount Soledad Memorial Park, you can see one of the best 360-degree views of the city, water, and mountains of the San Diego region. The memorial is considered one of the most unique veteran memorials in America and honors veterans from the Revolutionary War to current wars with an image of our veterans.
NEARBY IN LA JOLLA: - Cody's La Jolla - Cove House - Brockton Villa - Queenstown Village - Caroline's Seaside Cafe - Dodo Coffee
- Catania: Semi-casual Italian; top floor with La Jolla views - George's at the Cove: Semi-casual American cuisine; beautiful oceanside dining - Paradisea: Upscale Tropical Asian cuisine; Michelin recommended - Marisi: Boujee Italian cuisine; you could even stop in for just a martini - Olive & Basil: Casual Mediterranean cuisine; get a seat outside to eat with a view of the ocean - The Spot: Casual sports bar with American bar food; come as you are
FEELIN' CASUAL: - Wonderland (Ocean Beach): Bar food right on the ocean - brunch, dinner, beer, cocktails! - Tahona (Old Town): Mezcal and tacos - our first dinner date spot - Izakaya Masa (Mission Hills): Authentic Japanese with the best tuna carpaccio - Pomegranate (North Park): Authentic Russian-Georgian cuisine with the best adjaruli - Cantina Mayahuel (North Park/Normal Heights): Our favorite margarita in San Diego - Piacere Mio (South Park): Charming Italian food with charming Italian service FEELIN' FANCY: - The Fishery (North Pacific Beach/Bird Rock): Killer seafood - Cowboy Star (East Village): Our favorite steak restaurant for celebrations - Blue Bohemme (Kensington): French cuisine for special occasions - Mr. A's (Banker's Hill): Good food, great cocktails, and even better views of downtown San Diego
- Red Fox Room (North Park): Carly's favorite in all of San Diego! Perfect humble supper club for a martini and live Sinatra covers. - The Lion's Share (Downtown): Beautiful cocktails, great late night snacks, and cozy ambiance. - Young Blood (East Village): Tiny speakeasy without a drink menu; tell the bartender any flavor that you're in the mood for. You'll need a rezo. - Bali Hai (Shelter Island): Tiki bar with a view to make you feel like you're on a tropical island. The mai tai is dangerous! - Pure Project (North Park + Bankers Hill): Brewery with dozens of tasters to try. Both locations have a great outdoor area to sit and enjoy. - Realm of the 52 Remedies (Convoy): Upscale, Chinese medicine-themed speakeasy with creative mixed drinks in a swanky interior. - The Rose (South Park): Wine bar with a great wine selection and tasty specialty cocktails. Charming ambiance to catch up with people you really like. Let us know if you're interested in more recommendations!