Gay La Jolla

A true coastal jewel, San Diego’s La Jolla seaside community charms gay travelers with its upscale village persona and its striking ocean landscapes. Stretching into the northernmost section of the city of San Diego, La Jolla is a sunny beach destination within a beach destination, and worth a visit either as a distraction from urban exploration or a trip all on its own.

Most who venture to La Jolla are eager to cross a few nature-focused bucket list items from their lists. At La Jolla Cove, a sandy beach surrounded by craggy bluffs, crowds gather to watch swimmers and snorkelers share the chilly Pacific waters with noisy sea lions. An adjacent green space, Ellen Browning Scripps Park, offers a wide-open grassy field for taking in the sea breezes.

Just north of the cove, adventurous kayakers paddle through the mysterious seven sea caves, part of the biodiverse La Jolla Underwater Park and Ecological Reserve. Further south, rich and fascinating marine species including crabs and exotic fish emerge when the water recedes at the La Jolla Tide Pools.

Scenic coastal hikes are legendary at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, meshing verdant hills with endless azure vistas. But amid all of this unspoiled nature, a cheeky surprise awaits: Black’s Beach, a clothing-optional stretch that serves as the area’s unofficial gay beach.

Though you could spend days exploring the sea, the sand, and the terrain in La Jolla, any trip here inevitably involves meandering through the Village, brimming with posh retailers, hip waterfront eateries, and fashionable art galleries. Hop between the palm-tree-studded avenues south of Prospect Street to glimpse a picturesque town accented by flowering shrubs, vibrant street murals, and splendid Mediterranean architecture.

To take a break from the intense California sun, pop into one of La Jolla’s top tourist attractions — The Museum of Contemporary Art, the Birch Aquarium, or the Salk Institute for Biological Studies.

Gay-Friendly Dining in La Jolla

What’s a gay La Jolla vacation without the chance to indulge in the town’s bountiful culinary options? We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite gay-friendly bistros and eateries where you can enjoy a fabulous meal in marvelous surroundings.

George’s at the Cove

The popularity of this dining spot never seems to fade, and why would it? George’s Ocean Terrace entices consistently healthy crowds with its inventive cocktails, its fine dining menu, and its soothing views of the Pacific Ocean.

The Marine Room

It’s hard to beat the ocean views at The Marine Room, celebrated for its floor-to-ceiling windows built so close to the water that waves splash against them at high tide. But the menu doesn't fail to impress either — expect upscale French fare like steaks and seafood.

NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar

Boasting an incredible wine list and a stunning dining room, this mainstay serves upscale California cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and produce from local farms. Weekend brunch is legendary here, thanks in part to an irresistible pastry bar and $16 bottomless mimosas.

Parakeet Café

For fresh, healthy fare amid tropical surroundings, head to Parakeet Café. This funky spot features an extensive menu of coffees and teas, not to mention a whole section of variations on the avocado toast theme.

Gay-Friendly Nightlife

While there are no dedicated gay bars in La Jolla (you’ll have to go to Hillcrest to experience the best gay bars in San Diego) there are plenty of welcoming, inclusive spots for socializing and carousing in this corner of town.

Manhattan of La Jolla

Jazz lovers and connoisseurs of fine Italian cuisine will feel right at home at Manhattan. Dark wood and exposed brick create an elegant ambiance for enjoying standouts like salmon fiorentina, pollo marsala, and New York pepper steak flambé.

La Sala Lounge

Prepare to be charmed by the sophisticated, European look of La Sala Lounge, where cocktails take center stage. Sample delicious upscale fare — such as West Coast oysters, Baja Snapper ceviche, or the black bean and quinoa burger — while you savor the surroundings. 

The Shack Bar & Grill

A purely fun hangout with a lighthearted tiki vibe, this pet-friendly bar and grill is known for tasty food, generous portions, and beachy cocktails, not to mention a gorgeous patio.

LJ Crafted Wine

Taste small-batch wines directly from Napa at this chic wine bar and tasting room, which features taps right from the barrel. Order a cheese board and enjoy your wines in the stylish interior or on the small patio out front.

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