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La Jolla Kayak

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La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour For Two (Tandem Kayak)

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La Jolla Kayak - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Experience Thrilling Adventures with these 8 La Jolla Kayak Tours

E veryone that visits San Diego should do one of the La Jolla Kayak tours at least once. There’s nothing more peaceful than going to spot gorgeous coves and intriguing caves in the calm ocean while the sun is shining.

Undoubtedly, La Jolla is one of the best places in San Diego for a kayaking adventure. There are numerous kayak tour opportunities from hillside towns. These tours allow visitors to hit the Pacific Ocean and see unique forms of nature and wildlife.

Greg and I love kayaking in La Jolla and it is always a fun outing. It is pretty beginner friendly too, so even if you have never been in a kayak before, this is totally doable. The only tricky part is getting through the waves on the shore, but the kayaking tour guides will help you through. You will get wet though, so I recommend leaving your valuables in the provided lockers or bringing a little floating dry bag to keep your things safe. Definitely wear sunscreen and I recommend a hat and, unless you wear only swimwear, some quick-drying clothes (or bring some to change into later).

Here’s our list of the top kayak tours in La Jolla, you must check these out during your visit!

The Best La Jolla Kayak Tours

La jolla sea caves kayak tour.

This hour and a half sea cave kayak tour will take you inside the area’s caves with the help of expert tour guides. Soak up some gorgeous scenery while catching glimpses of marine life, including sea birds, sea lions, seals, even occasionally dolphins or a sea turtle.

Grab the chance to paddle through stunning kelp beds surrounding the La Jolla Ecological Reserve & Underwater Park . Bring your GoPro because you want to ensure you get some snaps of this.

The tour provides all equipment, including a life jacket, kayaks and paddles, and a wet suit if you prefer to wear one.

Morning or afternoon departure times are available, and your guide will meet you at Avenida de la Playa in La Jolla. Before you head out to the water, full training and safety procedures will be provided.

As soon as everyone is good to go, drag your boat to the sea for a great time!

La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour for Two

If you’re looking for more of a private La Jolla kayak cave tour, this hour and a half excursion for two might be up your alley.

Follow your guide, who knows the La Jolla sea caves more than anyone else, as they bring you through many diverse ecological habitats. 

See the likes of the wonderful Emerald Cove, the only north-facing cove in the whole state of California. Snap up the chance to get close to sea life, such as harbor seals, otters, and sea lions.

No prior experience is required on this tour. Your group of two will be shown all you need to know before heading out into sea. Use of the company’s gear and equipment is included in the price, e.g., life jackets, kayaks, etc. If you’d like to rent a wetsuit or locker, you can do so for an added fee.

Each participant must arrive at the departure location 30 minutes before to get organized. The staff members will get you ready and outfitted so it doesn’t cut into your kayaking time.

2 Hour Whale Watching Kayak Tour for Two

Now, for something a little different. This two hour sea kayaking La Jolla tour brings you to see grey whales.

Yes, you read that right. Enjoy an intimate experience for two people as you paddle your way off the coast of La Jolla in the hope of seeing grey whales. Learn about the creature’s behavior and how they live their lives while seeing La Jolla from a whole other perspective.

The tour’s meeting point will be 2261 Avenida De La Playa, La Jolla, Ca, 92037. Get there 30 minutes before to get geared up. From there you’ll head down to the beach for your safety briefing and tutorial with a certified guide. Depart from the shores and head 2 miles out to try to spot some whales. 

There will be plenty of breaks along the way for you to rehydrate and explanations about the marine life. One great thing about this activity is that the company donates a percentage of every booking to Greenwave & Urban Surf 4 Kids, so your money goes toward a good cause.

Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves

Seeing the seven impressive caves of La Jolla on your own without a guide can be a difficult and dangerous task. Join this two hour La Jolla cove kayaking tour to discover the popular seven caves, including Arch Cave, Clams’ Cave, and Jim’s Cave.

Float through the water seeing places you wouldn’t be able to alone. Admire awe-inspiring sandstone formations while learning how they were created. Get up close to leopard sharks, sea lions, dolphins, and more.

Anyone who hasn’t kayaked before will get full training upon arrival. By the time you get back to shore, you’ll be a professional. All equipment needed is included: helmets, life jackets, and of course, your La Jolla kayak rental.

Leave all valuables behind before heading out to sea. You’re promised to get wet, at least from the waist down, on this tour.

Like most tours on this list, get to the meeting point 30 minutes early. Your guide will meet you at 2158 Avenida De La Playa.

La Jolla Kayak and Snorkel Tour

Why just kayak when you can snorkel as well? This two and a half hour La Jolla kayak snorkel tour is set in the Ecological Reserve, and wow, it’s an experience you don’t want to miss out on.

Kayak your way from the La Jolla shores through jaw-dropping caves before heading out to open water for snorkeling. Wave at the leopard sharks as they swim around you — don’t be frightened, they won’t harm you. Other forms of sea life can be seen, too, like rays, shovelnose guitarfish, rockfish, sea lions, and spiny lobster. You’ll feel like one of them for a couple of hours.

The sea cave kayak and snorkeling tour includes essential gear like masks, fins, paddles, etc. If you do happen to have your own snorkeling equipment, you’re allowed to bring it along and use it. Just let the company know before.

An experienced guide will be in a nearby kayak at all times in case there’s trouble with gear or you need anything. 

Kayak Rental For Two People From La Jolla Shores

Escape the hustle and bustle of the San Diego lifestyle and spend time with your significant other, best friend, or child on this hour and a half double kayak tour of the La Jolla caves.

Row yourselves around the La Jolla Ecological Reserve at a pace that suits both of you. There’s no guide with you, so you can check out whatever you want.

A safety briefing will be provided before, as well as a list of locations you can and can’t visit. Arrive at the meeting point (Everyday California’s Office) 30 minutes early, your kayak and paddles will be waiting.

Depending on the time of year, kayakers may see different species of fish, seals, sea lions, dolphins, and whales. Don’t panic if you do! They’re enjoying the water as much as you are and won’t harm you.

Anyone who takes part in this La Jolla shores kayaking excursion must be a competent swimmer in case the kayak topples over when you’re out at sea alone. Unfortunately, you cannot bring the kayak inside any of the 7 caves. If you want to look inside, consider one of the other tours on this list instead.

90 Minute Kayak Rental In La Jolla

Take part in a 90 minute guided kayak tour of La Jolla. Grasp the basics of Kayaking, from steering to paddling, and see a whole new side to La Jolla you never even knew existed. Follow your guide past the breathtaking caves, charming kelp forests, and underwater canyons while listening to interesting stories and facts. 

With some luck, you might see different types of dolphins that are known to congregate around certain areas. These include bottlenose dolphins, white-sided dolphins, and common dolphins. 

On average, each tour covers about six miles round trip. So, you’ll be kayaking for the majority of the time. Experience isn’t necessary. If you need help, your guide will be by your side every second. When you return to shore, a scorching hot beverage will be waiting for you to warm you up.

Every participant should bring shoes which can get wet, a bathing suit or swimming shorts, sunscreen, and a strap to hold their sunglasses in case they fall into the sea. You can leave a change of clothes and valuables behind in one of the lockers provided.

There’s a minimum booking requirement of two people. The maximum number of people that can go on this tour is nine, so reserve your spot to avoid disappointment.

La Jolla kayak tours are a great way to see areas you wouldn’t be able to on a larger boat. Once you have a guide by your side, it opens up many opportunities. Plus, you know you will be completely safe wherever you go.

Which La Jolla kayak tour will you sign up for?!

For more things to do be sure to check out The Ultimate Guide to La Jolla .

Last Updated on October 3, 2023 by Maria Haase

The post Experience Thrilling Adventures with these 8 La Jolla Kayak Tours appeared first on San Diego Explorer .

• Original La Jolla Kayak Cave Tour
• Sunset Original Kayak Tour
• La Jolla Coastal E-Bike Tour
• Kayak and Snorkel Tour
• Whale Watching Kayak Tour
• La Jolla Shores Snorkel Tour
• Corporate Team Building Tours
• Travel Guide

Our family’s passion for La Jolla’s community, Ecological Reserve, and wildlife has made us San Diego’s original ocean adventure company. We pride ourselves in providing the best experiences for our customers. Whether local or visiting, you’re our priority and we’ll treat you as part of the La Jolla Kayak family.

Explore La Jolla Shores and see harmless Leopard Sharks, Garibaldi, and other reef fish that call this area home!

   MOST POPULAR   

Join us on our most popular tour of the La Jolla Sea Caves—one of San Diego’s famous attractions.

End your day with the ultimate sunset experience! Kayak the La Jolla Ecological Reserve while watching San Diego’s warm sun set.

Are you looking for a solo adventure? We rent kayaks, snorkel gear, surfboard, and stand up paddleboards to explore La Jolla Shores.

 See why locals and tourists choose La Jolla Kayak year after year.

Took my wife and 4 kids on the kayak and snorkel tour. Our two tour guides were great to work with. They were helpful and made sure everyone was safe and enjoyed their trip. We had an 11, 14, 16, and 18 year old with us.

You are given kayaking instruction so that you’re comfortable being out on the water. It was my first time kayaking but I felt safe, confident, and just really excited to be out in the ocean. They want you to feel safe and they want you to have fun!

This was an incredible experience! The staff aids you getting in, out and through the water and they were so helpful, nice and attentive…I got to see some sea lions and seals up close…which was absolutely amazing!

La Jolla Kayak has been my favorite place for kayak tours and rentals since they opened about 20 years ago. We have taken probably dozens of family and friends, and everyone always loves it.

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La Jolla Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves

Explore the sea caves and snorkel the ecological reserve of la jolla cove, explore the famous la jolla caves and ecological reserve.

Slather on that reef-friendly sunscreen and hold on to your paddle through the La Jolla caves ! Experience San Diego’s vibrant outdoor culture with our fun kayak and snorkel tours in La Jolla . All paddlers of different sizes and skill levels are welcome!

Kayak the 7 Caves and gaze at the astounding sea cliffs surrounding the La Jolla Shores. Gear up with a snorkel, mask, and fins, and get ready to take a dip into the clear waters to encounter leopard sharks, and discover other friendly marine creatures on one of our La Jolla kayak tours .

Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves

Kayak and snorkel tour, snorkeling tour: leopard shark encounter, freefall bike tour and snorkeling in la jolla, pedal along san diego’s best sights and discover marine life snorkeling in la jolla shores.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of California’s southern coast with our Half Day Bike and Kayak Tour or La Jolla Snorkeling Tour . These exceptional La Jolla adventures seamlessly blend the thrill of biking through picturesque landscapes with the enchantment of kayaking and snorkeling through the captivating La Jolla caves.

La Jolla Freefall Bike Tour

Half day bike and kayak combo, stand-up paddleboard, kayak and bike rentals san diego, enjoy self-guided tours around la jolla with our custom map.

Experience the best of San Diego’s outdoor activities with our kayak, snorkel, stand-up paddleboard, and bike rentals. Explore the stunning coastline, paddle through calm waters, or cycle along scenic trails at your own pace. Get ready to create lasting memories while enjoying the La Jolla Caves and San Diego’s beautiful coastline.

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Got any 4th of July plans??? 🎉🇺🇸 Coronado is now booking tours to watch the fireworks!! There is no better way to enjoy July 4th in San Diego than being on the water to witness the Big Bay Boom fireworks show, San Diego’s largest fireworks display. Get the best seat in the house along San Diego Bay for the Big Bay Boom Fourth of July Fireworks Paddle. Keep in mind ‼️>>SPOTS ARE LIMITED<< so make sure to make a reservation!‼️ Visit our website in the bio for more information . . . #4thofjuly2022 #4thofjuly #4thofjulyactivities #coronadofireworks #fireworkstour ...

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Unique Location

San Diego is known for its temperate climate, clear blue sunshine sky, and vibrant outdoor culture, and La Jolla, in particular, encapsulates everything you could possibly look for in an outdoor adventure

Diverse Marine Flora & Fauna

Famous for its marine life, La Jolla thrives with beautiful sea creatures and colorful reefs, and there is no better way to explore them than on our kayak and snorkel tours, to get up close to the California garibaldi fish and harmless whale sharks, among others!

Certified (and Delightful) Guides

One of the best parts of our La Jolla kayak, snorkel and bike tours: our guides! Certified in both fun and safety, they are experts in creating unforgettable adventures on land and sea

Learn more about who we are and our passion for outdoor adventures.

We’d Love To Hear From You!

We’re here to help! If you have any questions or need more information about our tours or rentals, please feel free to reach out.

La Jolla Kayak

Review Highlights

“ Our guides Alex and Quincy were so knowledgeable and kept us all feeling safe during our kayak tour . ” in 67 reviews

“ I was originally not that excited about going but Ryan and Brody made the experience 100 times better for me. ” in 25 reviews

“ Upon check-in La Jolla Kayak had an offer for a free underwater camera , which I thought would be awesome! ” in 20 reviews

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Location & Hours

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2199 Avenida De La Playa

La Jolla, CA 92037

El Paseo Grande & Avenida De La Ribera

La Jolla, La Jolla Shores

Serving La Jolla Area

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About the Business

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Business Owner

San Diego's #1 coastal kayak tour company, specializing in kayak, snorkel and bike tours along the beautiful coastline of La Jolla. No gear? No problem. We have a variety of rental equipment to help you explore San Diego including kayak rentals, snorkel gear, stand up paddle boards, boogie boards and surfboards! Whether you're a local or visiting, plan your next trip to San Diego with La Jolla Kayak. Experience San Diego's sightseeing adventure by kayak, bike, or underwater. Kayak through the La Jolla Sea Caves and dive-in to snorkel around La Jolla Cove bringing you within feet of Leopard Sharks and Garibaldi. Explore La Jolla's beauty from the seat of a bicycle. Starting at the top of Mt. Soledad down La Jolla's famous coastline. Breezing by Windansea Beach, Bird Rock, the Children's Pool, and La Jolla Cove. Family owned and operated for over 19 years, we're the original company to offer kayak tours of the La Jolla Sea Caves. Our guides are professional, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic. Many of them possess backgrounds in marine biology and ecology, making your adventure a learning experience! …

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Do you have to go on a tour or can you rent kayaks and go on your own?

We do offer individual kayak rentals. These rentals don't allow you to go inside the caves.

What is the best time of day to go? Should we wear swim shoes/socks?

We went around 11 and it was perfect. We wore sandals which they have you remove prior to getting down to the beach. Make sure to wear sunblock EVERYWHERE. I usually only put it on my shoulders and face because that's normally where I burn but my… more

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Overall rating

1088 reviews

Picked this place randomly, and boy, our guides (Brodie and Miranda), were just awesome!! Lot of energy and humor! Couldn't have asked for more pleasurable experience!

I did the Original Kayak Cave Tour on 8/10/22. I am an experienced kayaker but really wanted to learn about the area and I couldn't have asked for a better tour! Our guides, Aiden and Dax, were so informative, personable, and entertaining and they put SO much effort and enthusiasm into making sure everyone had a good time. The tides weren't safe to go inland and see the leopard sharks, but we did see seals and even some beautiful orange Garibaldi fish in the water, and we did get to go through the caves. All the staff were super friendly and helpful, from the person who answered the phone to the people helping us launch and land our kayaks. This is an interesting and safe trip whether you are a first time or experienced kayaker. Highly recommend both this trip and this company! Definitely listen to what they say and get there early because you will likely have to park several blocks away.

We had such an incredible time with Jessie and Jackson leading our kayak tour. They were constantly sharing interesting information about EVERYTHING and made the entire experience safe and super fun. Highly recommend!

Really great experience! So fun to be out on the water, paddle through a cave and with sea lions, with really clear water so you can see the many fish and leopard sharks beneath you. Our guides were Dillon and Alex and they did a great job making everything really fun!

Excellent ocean kayak tour! We got really lucky w/ a mid/late Nov day - surprisingly warm day, clear water, and manageable waves. The water visibility was incredible, clearly showing leopard sharks & a lot of beautiful fish. Our guides, Tyler & Amy, were entertaining, knowledgeable, & really fun. We managed to not fall in at all (hardest part was entry / exit w/ the waves), but the water was probably only 64 degrees - so not that cold anyway (particularly for Nov).

Great kayak tour with Josh and Maddie! I was a little hesitant about going out in the ocean but it was definitely accessible to all-levels experience!

Went on a late morning Kajak trip with Christian and John as our tour guides. I ran into a few problems halfway through the trip. Christian noticed my concern immediately and jumped in to assist. He then proceeded to give me feedback to walk me through the rest of the way. Undoubtedly the best pair of tour guides I have ever had for any type of trip. Thank you.

Had a wonderful time. The staff was so helpful and flexible. Coming from Northern California, was worried about being cold so paid for wetsuits for everyone in the family when booking online. However, once getting there, realized that it was really warm--even though it was Nov! They went ahead and refunded the amount. Our guides (Nick and Johnny) were great. Felt very safe when they brought us to explore the sea cave. Highly recommended :)

My wife and I did the La Jolla cave excursion and had a blast! Our guides were awesome! Wish I remembered their names, but I am old and forget things. Here are some things I wish I knew before and recommendations for you. You will get wet, dress accordingly. I am a fairly experienced kayaker and would rate this moderately strenuous. It's the oceans and the currents can be strong. Go with the single kayak. You have a choice and we had you have more freedom when you are a single. They have a locker, it's worth the small amount. Store all your stuff there while you are gone. Don't take anything out there with you. It may not come back if you happen to tip. Go into the caves, if you can. Enjoy the views and the experience. The guides are very helpful, full of info and a lot of fun.

Did a 11AM tour with Magnus and Lily. Really cool tour guides and made the kayaking in the ocean really fun despite it being really packed on the waters when it came to the cave it was a great experience.

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