Where Are the La Jolla Caves? Complete Guide for Visitors & Photographers
If you’ve ever asked yourself “Where are the La Jolla caves?”, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure along one of San Diego’s most beautiful coastlines. The La Jolla sea caves are a series of seven naturally carved sandstone formations, each with its own shape and personality, tucked beneath the cliffs just north of La Jolla Cove. While most are only accessible by water, the most famous — Sunny Jim Cave — is the only sea cave in California you can walk into from land. Whether you’re exploring by foot, kayak, or just enjoying the views from the cliffs, this guide will give you exact locations, the best times to visit, parking tips, and even a few photography tricks to capture these natural wonders at their best.
Exploring the La Jolla sea caves — from the famous Sunny Jim Cave to hidden cliffside formations — a must-see along San Diego’s coastline for adventure seekers and photographers alike.
Exact Location of the La Jolla Caves
Sunny Jim Cave (via The Cave Store) – 📍 1325 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037
Accessible through a 144-step man-made tunnel inside The Cave Store. Small entry fee applies. Open daily.
Google Maps: Click hereOther Caves – While you can’t walk into them from land, the other six caves — Clam’s Cave, Arch Cave, Sea Surprise, Shopping Cart, Little Sister, and White Lady — can be viewed from the water by kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Kayak tours launch from La Jolla Shores Beach 📍 8300 Camino Del Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037.
Best Time to Visit the La Jolla Caves
Morning: Calmest waters for kayaking and fewer crowds at The Cave Store.
Golden Hour (Sunset): The cliffs and ocean light up in warm colors, perfect for photography.
Low Tide: Reveals more of the rock formations and tide pools nearby.
Avoid: Days with high surf or red tide for safety and visibility.
Parking Tips
Near The Cave Store: Limited street parking along Coast Blvd and Prospect Street. Arrive early, especially on weekends.
For Kayak Tours: Use the large paid parking lot at La Jolla Shores Park or nearby side streets. Be mindful of time limits.
Pro Tip: If you can’t find a spot, park further up the hill and enjoy a scenic walk down to the coast.
Photo Tips for the La Jolla Caves
Lens Choice: A wide-angle lens captures the full curve of the cliffs and ocean.
Lighting: Shoot during golden hour for rich color; mornings for softer, even light.
Wildlife: Expect sea lions, pelicans, and sometimes dolphins. Keep a respectful distance.
Framing: For a creative shot, frame the ocean through the cave opening.
Kayak Photography: Use a waterproof camera or GoPro for action shots on the water.
Quick Safety Reminder
The water near the caves can be unpredictable. Always check surf conditions, wear a life vest when kayaking, and follow local guidelines.
Ready to Capture the Caves?
Whether you’re planning a proposal inside Sunny Jim Cave, a romantic kayak shoot along the cliffs, or simply want stunning vacation photos, we make it effortless. We know the best angles, the right tides, and the perfect timing to get photos you’ll treasure forever.
📸 Book your La Jolla caves photography session today: See Our Packages
