La Jolla Underwater Park

San Diego, CA, USA

The La Jolla Underwater Park is a great way to experience the world in the Pacific Ocean. There are artificial reefs, two canyons and a kelp forest. There are many places around the park to rent scuba and snorkeling gear, kayaks and wetsuits. The park lies underwater between Torrey Pines State Park and La Jolla Shores. I’ve swam here and kayaked. Even from the kayak the water is clear enough to see the ocean life, such as the garibaldi- the bright orange state fish of California. I’ve experienced run ins with seals, dolphins and stingrays. The most breathtaking experience was when I almost swam right on top of a leopard shark, these large, docile fish are incredible to see- especially when you’re in the water with them! Tip: The area is marked well by buoys and is probably the best place along the southern CA coastline to go snorkeling because the water is more calm here than other parts of the coastline. If you go, be watchful of other swimmers, kayakers, snorkelers and divers as this can be a popular place.

More Recommendations

6,000 acres of underwater fun!

The La Jolla Underwater Park is a great way to experience the world in the Pacific Ocean. There are artificial reefs, two canyons and a kelp forest. There are many places around the park to rent scuba and snorkeling gear, kayaks and wetsuits. The park lies underwater between Torrey Pines State Park and La Jolla Shores. I’ve swam here and kayaked. Even from the kayak the water is clear enough to see the ocean life, such as the garibaldi- the bright orange state fish of California. I’ve experienced run ins with seals, dolphins and stingrays. The most breathtaking experience was when I almost swam right on top of a leopard shark, these large, docile fish are incredible to see- especially when you’re in the water with them! Tip: The area is marked well by buoys and is probably the best place along the southern CA coastline to go snorkeling because the water is more calm here than other parts of the coastline. If you go, be watchful of other swimmers, kayakers, snorkelers and divers as this can be a popular place.

Kayaking not to be missed!

A wonderful place to paddle around. Rent kayaks or paddle boards on shore and explore the caves and wildlife near the park. We saw seals, sea lions, starfish, anemones, and many kinds of birds!

Information on this page, including website, location, and opening hours, is subject to have changed since this page was last published. If you would like to report anything that’s inaccurate, let us know at notification@afar.com.

Nearby highlights
Sign up for our newsletter
Join more than a million of the world’s best travelers. Subscribe to the Daily Wander newsletter.
More From AFAR