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The Original La Jolla Walking Tour

134 Reviews 4.96 out of 5 stars Based on 134 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
La Jolla, USA
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 27 (0) days in advance.

120 to 135 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Discover La Jolla through the eyes of a local who is deeply involved in the community. This leisurely three-mile tour takes you from the charming Village to the breathtaking coastline, uncovering hidden gems and iconic landmarks along the way.

With more than 100 five-star reviews, this is by FAR La Jolla's highest-rated walking tour. Guests consistently praise the engaging storytelling, insider knowledge, and personalized recommendations.

As someone who holds elected leadership positions, I offer a perspective beyond guidebooks. You'll hear fascinating stories about the people and events that shaped La Jolla -— from visionary philanthropists to infamous criminals, —while also gaining insight into the issues and, concerns shaping La Jolla today.

Whether you're a local or visiting for the first time you'll gain a rich understanding of this extraordinary seaside community, along with personalized recommendations for restaurants, beaches, and activities tailored to your interests.

What's Included

  • Numerous gems unknown even to locals
  • Overview of Ellen Scripps’ many contributions
  • Many fun facts
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    Meeting Location

    Meeting point

    615 Prospect Street
    La Jolla, CA 92037, USA

    Show on Google Maps

    Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

    End point

    This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    What To Expect

    Book Online

    Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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    Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

    La Jolla Recreation Center

    One of Ellen Scripps’ many gifts to La Jolla. We learn what makes it unique.
    Read more

    10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

    We will not tour the museum, but it is the site of Ellen Scripps’ home in La Jolla, which is incorporated into the museum.
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    5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    La Jolla Historical Society

    The La Jolla Historical Society is housed in Wisteria Cottage, which was the residence of Ellen Scripps’ half-sister Virginia (Jenny). We won’t go in the museum, but you will learn how Wisteria Cottage has been used over the years, as well as fun facts about Jenny.
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    5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    St James by-The-Sea Episcopal Church

    St. James by the Sea is a beautiful church. But what stands there now is not the original structure. Where did it go?
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    5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Girard Avenue and Prospect Street

    Ground Zero La Jolla. There is a lot of history at and near this intersection, and we have the photos to prove it!
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    10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    The Cave Store

    The Cave Store is the second longest continuously operating enterprise in La Jolla (we’ll see the oldest too). You’ll learn why the original owner decided to build a tunnel to Sunny Jim’s cave, and who was Sunny Jim anyway?
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    5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    La Jolla Cove

    La Jolla Cove is the site of caves, sea lions, cormorant rookeries, and unparalleled beauty.
    Read more

    15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Ellen Browning Scripps Park

    South of La Jolla Cove, this park stretches between La Jolla Cove and Children’s Pool and is one of the most beautiful parts of La Jolla.
    Read more

    20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Children's Pool

    The last thing Ellen Scripps gave to La Jolla while she was still alive. Beautiful break wall and lots of seals.
    Read more

    5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Coast Boulevard Park (pass by)

    We’ll see The Wedding Bowl and the La Jolla Tide Pools
    Read more
    Show 9 more stops

    Additional Info

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travelers with walking problems.
    • Not recommended for children under 10
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

    Frequently Asked Questions (8)

    Q: What is the cancellation policy for the The Original La Jolla Walking Tour?

    A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (PST).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

    Cancellation Policy

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

    Still have questions?

    We're here to help.
    Activity code: C-410692P2

    Traveler Photos

    Reviews

    4.96
    134 reviews

    Average 4.96 out of 5 stars based on 134 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

    5 stars
    128
    4 stars
    6
    3 stars
    0
    2 stars
    0
    1 star
    0
    Don't miss out!
    On average, this is booked 27 (0) days in advance.

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    What's Included

    Activity name

    • Numerous gems unknown even to locals
    • Overview of Ellen Scripps’ many contributions
    • Many fun facts
    • Background on architecture

    Additional Info

    Activity name

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Not recommended for travelers with walking problems.
    • Not recommended for children under 10
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

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