Sunny Jim's Sea Cave
La Jolla
Sunny Jim's Sea Cave in La Jolla is celebrated as California's only sea cave accessible entirely by land, with an entrance tucked inside The Cave Store. Visitors descend a historic, hand-carved 145-step wooden tunnel built in 1902 to reach a natural ocean cavern opening onto the Pacific. The vantage point offers stunning views of the coastal geology, ocean waves, and passing kayakers.
Commenters are sharply divided between excitement for this unique coastal spot and frustration over the admission fee. While many add it to their bucket lists and date night itineraries, others complain that it is overpriced for a brief stair descent compared to free nearby ocean views.
- Enter through The Cave Store to access the hand-carved tunnel
- Prepare to navigate 145 stairs down into the cavern and back up
- Expect an admission fee for a relatively short, self-guided walk
- Consider guided ocean kayak tours if you want to explore the full series of coastal caves
- Great stop to add to a solo trip or date itinerary in La Jolla
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