WanderLyn: Get Your 10K Steps In .... La Jolla (San Diego, CA)

Alright ladies, sneakers on, lipstick in place, gorgeous sun hat tipped at just the right angle—we’re about to hit 10,000 steps in one of the most stunning seaside towns in Southern California. La Jolla is everything: ocean views, boutique shopping, seals that think they’re models, and food so good you’ll be making brunch plans before you finish dinner. Let’s go!

Start Strong: Brunch at Brockton Villa

We’re starting this adventure the right way—with carbs and a view. Brockton Villa is a charming old home turned restaurant perched above La Jolla Cove. The kind of spot where you sip coffee and stare at the Pacific like you’re in a movie. What should you order? Coast Toast. Their legendary twist on brioche French toast is basically dessert disguised as breakfast—crispy on the outside, custardy goodness on the inside, and kissed with orange zest. You’ll want to write home about it (or at least post it on Instagram).

Pro tip: Make reservations on OpenTable so you can skip the wait and score a table on the shady patio or by the window. Ocean view brunch = life goals.

Walk It Off: La Jolla Cove & Seal Society

Once you’re sufficiently blissed out on Coast Toast, it’s time to move those legs. Stroll down to La Jolla Cove and take in that panoramic Pacific view that makes postcards jealous. Here’s where the locals—aka the sea lions—put on a show. They lounge, they bark, they flop around like they own the joint (because they do). This is also a great swimming spot, complete with lifeguards and restrooms if you’re feeling bold.

Take your time here, because the view from the park is pure magic—and if you’re lucky, you might catch a street performer or two.

Next Stop: The Children’s Pool & Sea Wall Adventure

Keep hugging the coast until you hit the Children’s Pool, which is ironically more popular with seals some days. This spot is legendary for its sea wall, and yes, you’re going to walk it. It’s narrow, a little splashy if the waves are frisky, and absolutely worth it for the jaw-dropping ocean views. Pro tip: Hold onto your hat—literally—because that ocean breeze means business. The photo ops here? Chef’s kiss.

Retail Therapy: The Arcade Building & Girard Avenue Shopping

Time to climb up Jenner Street (yes, we’re earning those gelato calories) to the historic Arcade Building, where cute local shops are waiting to tempt you. From there, turn right and stroll along Girard Avenue, La Jolla’s retail paradise. Think chic boutiques, jewelry stores that sparkle like the ocean, and galleries that make you feel sophisticated just by walking in.

Do NOT skip Warwick’s Bookstore. This isn’t just a bookstore; it’s a La Jolla institution that’s been around for over 125 years, making it the oldest continuously family-owned bookstore in the U.S. Step inside and you’ll find a curated wonderland of books, gifts, and gorgeous stationery that makes you want to write letters again. They’ve got everything—bestsellers, art books, local authors, and that perfect “oh this is so La Jolla” gift you didn’t know you needed. Need a beach read? Done. A signed cookbook from a celebrity chef? They’ve probably got it. Plus, their event calendar is packed with author signings and talks, so you never know who you might bump into while browsing.

Prospect Street: Gelato, Galleries, and Glam 

Head back on the other side of Girard -- after all that shopping and browsing, you might start feeling peckish. Turn right on Prospect and look for Scoops La Jolla, and honey, this is REAL Italian gelato. Smooth, creamy, authentic. My go-to? The affogato—espresso poured over gelato. It’s a pick-me-up that feels a little naughty, and we like that.

After your tasty treat, let’s wander down to Prospect Street for some gallery-hopping. This is where La Jolla shows off its artsy side. You’ll find incredible art galleries featuring everything from contemporary masterpieces to ocean-inspired pieces that will make you want to redecorate your whole house. Pop into spots like National Geographic Fine Art Galleries or local favorites that showcase California artists—you never know what gem you’ll discover.

Sip with a View: La Valencia Hotel

Thirsting for that perfect sunset moment? Wander into La Valencia Hotel, La Jolla’s glamorous, pink-hued icon since 1926. Step inside, and it’s pure vintage charm meets ocean views that stop you in your tracks. Head straight to La Sala Lounge, snag a seat by the window, and order something bubbly. That Pacific backdrop? Unreal. Wander out to the terrace, let the sea breeze play with your hair, and toast to the good life. 

Dinner Goals: Eddie V’s Rooftop Patio

End your epic La Jolla day at Eddie V’s, where seafood dreams come true. Grab a reservation on OpenTable and request a seat on the shaded rooftop patio because the view of La Jolla Shores as the sun dips below the horizon is everything. Order the Seafood Tower. It’s dramatic. It’s delicious. It’s dinner with a side of “Wow.”

By now, you’ve crushed your 10K steps, tasted the best of La Jolla, and soaked in more beauty than your camera roll can handle. Bravo, you did it without setting foot on a treadmill. That’s how we roll. And what’s better than hitting your step goal? Doing it with ocean views, fabulous food, a little shopping, and a sunset toast. That’s total happiness—La Jolla style.

Until next time,

Eat Well. Move Well. Wander well.

— Lyn, WanderLynTravel

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