Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: seals (40) beach (27) kids (13) beautiful (13) parking (13) lions (12) walk (12) people (12) great (10) nice (10)
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  • 5/5 Ashutosh S. 2 years ago on Google
    Great place for kids and adults alike. Nice and clean beaches with rock structures. Children's beach was not for kids though as it was occupied by seal lions😀. Sound of ocean water crashing on rocks and sight of it is awesome. Plenty of bathroom and shower rooms after swimming are available. Portable drinking fountain is also there. Eye pleasing sight all around.
    16 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 cindy h. 2 years ago on Google
    The pool was closed when we were there because the seals we're sunning themselves on the beach. I love how they closed it for the wild life rather than the other way around. The view from this area will take your breath away. Parking sucks for the most part but if you drive a few blocks away and walk in its totally worth it. Seagulls are a bit nosey and looking for treats but they are entertaining too.
    12 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Edwin Iván R. 3 months ago on Google • 837 reviews New
    The beach is good, it is one of the best in La Jolla, the water is cold even in summer, there are many rocks and vegetation but you can have a very good time there.

  • 5/5 Carsten B. 2 years ago on Google
    This is a great spot to watch the wildlife (and the people watching the wildlife). During March and April, the only children using this pool are the California seal pups. There are also a few stray sea lions from around the corner, pelicans and the ubiquitous sea gulls plus ground squirrels.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Crystal Pyramid Productions San Diego Video C. 2 years ago on Google
    A beautiful scenic beach which recently became controversial due to the pupping harbor seals who have made this their abode. Tourists will plow right past the seasonal signs that say "Do Not Approach Seals" and get right up into the pupping areas. Now there is a "Save the Harbor Seals" faction versus the "This is Called Children's Pool for a Reason" faction. I have no idea how it will be resolved in the future, but you can still go out to La Jolla and see the Children's Pool from a higher vantage point, and if you feel the need to be on a beach if there happen to be seals at Childrens Pool, there is a plethora of beaches to choose from all up and down the coast.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ria D. 2 years ago on Google
    Sunset is just amazing at the beach. Good place to watch seals. The beach is open for swimming. Restroom is also available and it’s clean. Some food stalls are available there. Loved the vibe of the place. Walking upto La Jolla Cave in the evening is really worth it because of seals and sea lions sunbathing on the beach.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael B. 2 years ago on Google
    Children's Pool is a great low depth area to see sea life. Expect to find seals all over the place around here! The jetty overlook can and will get fairly busy with people and it's a tight fit going between them. That said, it's a great spot to just enjoy the coastal views and wildlife viewing!
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Patrick A. 2 years ago on Google
    Very slippery. Make sure to go at low tide for viewing tidepools. Do not collect shells, most have hermit crabs living inside and will make for a crazy trip home as they start crawling around in your car!
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kelvin W. 1 year ago on Google
    Children’s pool is beachfront with waves directly from the sea. Waves are rather strong as spray can easily reach car windshield at carpark! It’s open to both adults and kids alike, but closed off to humans during sea lions pupping season 15 Dec - 15 May yearly. To see: Sea lions especially during pupping season across winter to spring or early summer, pelicans, birds, other wildlife. Find a nice spot to take selfies or photos. Parking: Street parking available, some are free with time box, while others are paid. Might have to walk a little as the roads do get crowded fast.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rachel S. 3 years ago on Google
    Wonderful little beach with tons of seals sunbathing, and a cool seawall you can walk on out to the opposite side of the beach. Come during high tide and the seals come right up to the barrier, and the waves get huge and crash against the seawall for amazing ocean displays.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anindya 2 years ago on Google
    Really Amazing view just sit and enjoy the waves..... Added advantage is you can see Sealions on the rocks..... Water color is amazing, it has another beach on the otherside of children's pool, just need to go down by stairs... Public restrooms are pretty clean.... finding parking is bit tricky..... 3hrs parking available across the roads...
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mike X. 3 years ago on Google
    Closed to children but open to seals
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 GT B. 11 months ago on Google
    Great beach area for kids with good sand. There was a dead seal on the beach with eyes sticking out which they knew about but didn't do anything about it. Kids playing next to it which I think parents should have stopped their kids from playing so close to it. Finally a guy that was swimming there just pulled it to the side as it was about to be washed into the ocean and covered it with seaweed.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Madison 2 years ago on Google
    Loved the vibe of the area! Seals and Sea Lions were lounging around and the weather was incredible. Ocean was absolutely lovely. Really loved all of the different places to walk around and see the ocean. Would definitely be a place I would return to if I'm down in La Jolla again!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gu L. 2 years ago on Google
    A very good place to see seals lying on the sand and rock. They look quite enjoying the water and the sun. Tips: for those whom plan to go to the end of sea work, pay attention to the wave, you won’t be washed down but your pants and shoes may get wet.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jamie D. 2 years ago on Google
    Gorgeous. Saw plenty of seals sunbathing on the rocks and swimming in the cove. Bathrooms and some places to shower off available. Street parking available but might have to walk a little if you're not in one of the closer spots. A few vendors are set up nearby both food and people selling trinkets.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 andreas b. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice place with a lot of seals and their baby’s.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 RA R. 4 years ago on Google
    Its beautifull to go for a weekend
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Corvette Z. 3 years ago on Google
    One of the most beautiful beach love
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 cjrussell 3 years ago on Google
    His name is “La Jolla” pronounced “Le hoya”
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jill R. 8 months ago on Google
    Even with all the people on a Saturday we were able to find street parking with only a short .3 mile walk. Getting there early, better parking closer to the main area of Children's Pool. Parking free, but he mindful of posted signs with specific days and times for parking. Bathroom available. Benches and areas to set and enjoy or beautiful walkway along road. Variety of stairs areas to go down to the water. Sea Lions and seals are adorable and have seen plenty on each of our visits. Close to other beach areas and wildlife views. Not a bad walk to the main shops and other streets. Beautiful area we always find a peaceful and fulfilling time with the waves crashing against rocks.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hayley A. 2 years ago on Google
    Really a beautiful place to just sit and watch the waves. Water was a bit chilly but the sea life was bustling about, my children has a blast. Sadly the few times we stopped by there was only one lone seal on the rocks, but still worth checking out!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 shelley S. 3 years ago on Google
    Cute! Got busy around noon! The kids love seeing the seals
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 LIZ B. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Very nice place, excellent view, ideal to enjoy with the family. (Original) Muy bonito lugar, Excelente vista, ideal para disfrutar en familia.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 danielle a. 4 years ago on Google
    Amazing. Free. SEALS! And the cave store down the street is super cool too!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mohammad Q. 3 years ago on Google
    If you would like to see a wonderful view of the ocean, if you want to get close to the sea lion and just watch them for hours, I have been there in the winter so there were no swimmers but as I learned this is a popular spot for families with kids to swim in.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Heather B. 4 years ago on Google
    My daughter, Zen chose this as her most"zen" place!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Rich K. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the main points on the map of attractions in La Jolla. The huge mass of people wishing to see the seals basking in the sun is really discouraging after just a few minutes to be there. So, a short visit and you have to leave here.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 amandasux666 4 years ago on Google
    first off i did not know you could actually get so close to the seals! so obviously showing up spontaneously to see seals from the sidewalk above the shore, i was very shocked to see a group of people so close to them down there. we walked down to them and it’s just so cute to see them sun bathing and relaxing. definitely worth seeing if you’re in the area and like animals!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kevin H. 6 months ago on Google
    In the fall or winter months, this is a nice place to relax. Listen to the waves. Watch the seals or the beautiful shoreline. Parking is easier and a nice walkway on the cliffs.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Brian L. 3 years ago on Google
    Allow to swim in Summer, may have kelp debris in the water
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nicholas M. 1 year ago on Google
    Truly a spectacular place to be - probably one of the best spots in San Diego to enjoy the coastline. Children's Pool is great for enjoying the ocean, animals (it is teeming with seagulls, seals, squirrels any time of the year), people watching, and everything in between. The only down side is that unless you can snag the rare free parking spot, parking in this area can be pricey - but that should not be a shock considering it's La Jolla.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Zuyang C. 3 years ago on Google
    Smelly seals, what are they feeding you
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ammarah B. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful little cove. Easily accessible and plenty of parking in the area. Look out for Seals on the rocks (they blend in so it's easy to miss them).
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 John O. 3 years ago on Google
    Love The Water Here !♥️Usual GREAT DAY in Paradise ! You can Even View The Seals FROM A. DISTANCE !
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shawn A. 4 years ago on Google
    Lots to see and play for kids remember to check out the seals sun tanning. There is a mating season Jan to May.

  • 5/5 Sandra S. 3 months ago on Google • 22 reviews New
    Just great. Pelicans and seals in the wild. Of course with a lot of people, but they have to keep a lot of distance. Absolutely recommended!

  • 3/5 Stuart R. 8 months ago on Google
    I mean, the place exists, but the picture on this review basically is the brunt of it. It is closed off but you can get fairly close to the seals at least for a couple pictures.

  • 5/5 brian M. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing what a beautiful place perfect for kids crystal clear water a must see

  • 5/5 Mrs H. 2 years ago on Google
    We were lucky enough to see a few sea lions perched on a cliff just east of the Children's Pool near Jim's Cave. Beautiful views, although more touristy than I remember.

  • 5/5 daniele m. 7 months ago on Google
    kewl place not too cheesy on the tourist spectrum. great thing about san diego is there is a lack of bustling behaviors and everyone is just kinda living life and doing so simply. the beaches are clean. the queues exhibit patience. it’s a classy version of a city.

  • 4/5 cristian g. 8 months ago on Google
    Very nice .. showers and bathrooms nice views ..more splash front he sea ..if you wajtbto get a bit of water this is the place .

  • 5/5 Bryan B. 7 months ago on Google
    We visited the Children's Pool for the first time, and really enjoyed ourselves. We also found a somewhat close disabled parking spot to the Children's Pool. Nevertheless, it could have used with a couple more spots. I stayed up above but my partner went down on the seawall. I was worried about coming down here but it turned out well. As for Gonzalo, he said that it was a really great experience. As an aside, he also said amusingly, "It smelled a little fishy." It was a beautiful cool and overcast morning and there were about thirty seals on the beach. Fortunately, there were no people on the beach, which can often happen. I would have appreciated a little more disability access than the one parking spot in front of the Lifeguard Station.

  • 5/5 Karlee A. 2 years ago on Google
    Came here in January and loved seeing the cute seals out on the beach relaxing. We also could see some playing in the waves enjoying the day.

  • 5/5 Marilyn C Hernandez Chingona Chicana 4. 2 years ago on Google
    Spectacular view left me speechless.. Great place to take a leisurely walk or sit and admire the beauty.. great place to ground

  • 4/5 Jeff L. 3 years ago on Google
    No sea lions today, just children

  • 5/5 Julia E. 3 years ago on Google
    Such a great place for families with kids!!! Perfect for the kiddos too swim in and it has such a beautiful sight!!! Might see seals laying down. They aren’t meant to be pet... I wouldn’t bother them and I’m pretty sure they won’t bother you. Sharing the beach is key. Pick up your trash you bring with you... saw empty water bottles, wrappers and one side shoe left behind... come on people.

  • 5/5 Zach F. 3 years ago on Google
    It's a lovely landmark on the northwestern corner of La Jolla. There is a small beach safer for children, since the reef waves are blocked by a high seawall. The seals love hanging out here, too (no selfies with the pups! 😄) Also, the seawall is closed when the tide gets too high. However, it is open most of the time. You can walk on it to the outer edge for a beautiful view of the jewel city and its rich blue water, given it's a sunny San Diego day.

  • 5/5 Paul S. 3 years ago on Google
    Magical. Lots of sand.

  • 5/5 Angine A. 3 years ago on Google
    Kids love it, I love it. Parking is tough but if you drive around a few times, you’ll find a great spot up front.

  • 5/5 Lisa P. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful!

  • 5/5 Ncg S. 3 years ago on Google
    Simply Beautiful❤🌊🏖🐟

  • 5/5 Sophie M. 3 years ago on Google
    We saw the baby seals and sea lions. Thrilling stuff!

  • 5/5 Donnie R. 3 years ago on Google
    A beautiful place to spend the day.

  • 5/5 Bil B. 3 years ago on Google
    I look forward to seal pupping season when the little darlings are banned and the seals and pups are back. Sit in silence on one of the many bench’s and take it all in. A moment of zen will do you good.

  • 5/5 MsJenni B. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful and I got to see sea lions

  • 5/5 Erik S. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place! We really likes this place to see the seals

  • 5/5 Shanee F. 3 years ago on Google
    One of my favorite beaches to splash around! Good for kids because the wall serves as a breaker, for calmer waves. But you've gotta clear out at sundown before the seals move in! Awesome sunsets too, of course.

  • 2/5 Trevor D. 3 years ago on Google
    Fairly small and crowded. Find a bigger beach.

  • 5/5 Andrea P. 4 years ago on Google
    A beautiful place to see seals! I am so happy I got the opportunity to see so many seals relaxing in one place, and I cannot recommend this place enough!

  • 4/5 Maria T. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place to spend a family day. The seals swim right up to the shore sometimes! Make sure you are prepared keep an eye on even older kids as there is not always life guards there and there are lots of rocks around.

  • 5/5 Alonso 3 years ago on Google
    Great place with a nice view!

  • 4/5 A B. 3 years ago on Google
    Ok good place to see seals better going north though. Take a walk and enjoy the ocean sea life.

  • 5/5 Roberta K. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful place, crystal clear waters... kids friendly 😊 my favorite beach in San Diego.

  • 5/5 Serafin T. 3 years ago on Google
    came here 3 years ago and it was beautiful😍🥰calm relaxing ocean and nice ppl as well...only issue for me was the parking😒

  • 5/5 Debbie G. 4 years ago on Google
    That is beautiful

  • 5/5 Oh!nix 4 years ago on Google
    See sea lions and seals chillin! This beach is closed to humans during mating season, but you can still see them from above. Very nice promenade to walk around. You can take lots of nice pictures here if wildlife. You can also see birds protecting their eggs.

  • 5/5 Jimin H. 4 years ago on Google
    The sea lions are adorable! It never gets boring. It is awesome place for who likes animals. Also there were one sea lion that was tied on some ropes. I think he or she is rescued. If you see a sea lion or other animals that are captured or hurt, please care about them.

  • 5/5 Sue T. 4 years ago on Google
    Its an easy walk from the street to an amazing cove filled with baby seals and their moms. Absolutely marvelous for people of any age.

  • 4/5 Gavin Z. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice beach with man made barrier. Nowadays the steaks owns the beach but you can watch them play

  • 5/5 Shadajha W. 4 years ago on Google
    We got to see sea lions!! Dream come true. We were so close to them and they were so unbothered. It was awesome.

  • 5/5 Руслан �. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) A beach that fur seals love. If you dreamed of looking at fur seals at arm's length in their natural habitat, here you are. Cats are absolutely not afraid of people, you can swim next to them, they will not even pay attention to you. They also like to lie down on the beach quite often, so if you decide to come here to sunbathe, get ready for the fact that you may have to share a place in the sun with a fur seal) P.S. Touching / stroking seals is prohibited, there are prohibition signs. (Original) Пляж, который очень любят морские котики. Если вы мечтали посмотреть на морских котиков на расстоянии вытянутой руки в их естественной среде обитания, вам сюда. Котики абсолютно не боятся людей, можно плавать рядом с ними, они на вас даже не будут обращать внимания. На пляже тоже любят частенько полежать, так что если решили сюда приехать позагорать, готовьтесь к тому, что, возможно, придется делить место под солнцем с морским котиком) P.S. Трогать/гладить котиков запрещено, есть запрещающие таблички.


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