Coastline and caves

An aerial view of La Jolla’s northern coastline reveals its dramatic caves and bluffs. The Coast Walk Trail, atop the cliffs, offers sweeping views across La Jolla Bay to the 125-foot sea cliffs and Torrey Pines State Park. The trail follows rugged Cretaceous-age sandstone bluffs, ranging from 16 feet at Goldfish Point to 116 feet, often teeming with nesting seabirds.

Seven deep sea caves, exposed at low tide, have been local attractions since the early 1900s. From east to west, they are White Lady, Little Sister, Shopping Cart, Sea Surprize, Arch Cave, Sunny Jim Cave, and Clam’s Cave—each name aiding lifeguard rescues.

Goldfish Point, named for the vibrant Garibaldi fish , extends into the sea, offering views of the caves, seabird rookeries, and La Jolla Bay’s rugged coastline—a scenic destination for visitors since the 19th century.