This guided kayak tour launches from La Jolla Shores beach and paddles along the rocky coastline of the ecological reserve to the La Jolla sea caves. You share a tandem kayak, wear a life jacket and follow a professional guide, passing through kelp forests and often seeing sea lions, pelicans and other wildlife on the way. The tour is listed at two hours, though participants report anywhere from about ninety minutes to two and a half. It is one of the most popular active experiences in San Diego, suited to confident swimmers who do not mind getting wet and want to see the coast from the water.
You meet at Avenida de la Playa in La Jolla, arriving about an hour before your departure time, and launch from La Jolla Shores. The route follows the rocky coast to the sea caves and through kelp forests, and the tour ends with a wave ride back to shore. Tandem kayaks hold two people, the tour includes the paddle, a life jacket and a guide, and groups are small enough for the guide to give instruction and keep an eye on everyone.
Wildlife is a highlight. Sea lions, seabirds and brown pelicans are commonly seen, and reviewers also mention garibaldi, leopard sharks and occasionally dolphins or seals. Be aware that entering the caves is not guaranteed: it depends on ocean conditions, group ability and the guide's judgment, and some groups do not get inside. Treat the cave entry as a bonus and the coastal paddle as the main experience.
Come prepared to get wet. Bring a swimsuit, water shoes, a hat and sunscreen, and leave valuables behind. Wetsuits are available to rent in fall, winter and spring, for an extra charge. All participants must be able to swim, the minimum age is 6 for a double kayak and 16 for a single, and the tour is not recommended for people with back problems, pregnancy or heart conditions. It is not wheelchair accessible. Gratuities, food and drink and lockers are not included. Pair it with a walk around La Jolla Cove afterward.
What to expect
The experience
A guided tandem-kayak tour from La Jolla Shores to the sea caves, with a life jacket, paddle and guide included.
Best time
Morning departures usually have calmer water; ocean conditions decide whether the caves can be entered.
How long
About two hours, with reviewers reporting ninety minutes to two and a half hours.
Tips
Wear a swimsuit and water shoes, bring sunscreen and a hat, and leave valuables behind. Arrive an hour early at the meeting point. Consider a wetsuit rental in cooler months.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active travelers and wildlife fans who can swim and enjoy being on the water.
- Families
- Possible with children aged 6 and up in a double kayak; everyone must be able to swim.
- Couples
- A fun, adventurous shared activity in a tandem kayak.
- Pair with
- La Jolla Cove and Birch Aquarium are close by.
- Time needed
- Half a morning.
Good questions
Will we definitely enter the sea caves?+
No. Entry depends on ocean conditions, group ability and the guide's judgment.
What is the minimum age?+
6 for a double kayak and 16 for a single kayak, and everyone must be able to swim.
What should I bring?+
A swimsuit, water shoes, a hat and sunscreen; leave valuables behind. Wetsuits can be rented in fall, winter and spring.
What wildlife will I see?+
Commonly sea lions, seabirds and pelicans, and sometimes garibaldi, leopard sharks, dolphins or seals.
Is it accessible?+
The tour is not wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed.
