Weekend in La Jolla

A small modern art museum on the coast with rotating exhibitions of postwar and contemporary works. The building itself has a nice terrace and views of the cove.

Tip: Free entry for all on the third Thursday of each month. Otherwise, it's $10 for adults — check the website for half-price Thursdays after 5pm.

A small free gallery in a historic 1904 beach cottage, housing exhibits about La Jolla's past including early photography, surfing culture and local architecture. Changes every few

Tip: Combines well with a walk up Coast Walk Trail, which starts nearby and gives cliffside views. The gallery is tiny — you'll be done in 20–30 minutes.

A small, sheltered beach and seawall originally built as a safe swimming area for children, now better known as a haul-out spot for harbour seals. Good for seal watching and photography.

Tip: Go at low tide to see seals clearly from the wall. Don't approach them, and keep dogs on leash — it's a protected habitat with fines for disturbances.

A small, sheltered cove with clear water and a sandy beach, part of a protected marine reserve. Good for swimming, snorkelling, or just watching seals and sea lions on the rocks.

Tip: Arrive before 9am to secure parking on Coast Boulevard. The seals can be smelly in summer, so keep your distance and don't feed them.

A coastal state park with rare Torrey pine trees, sandstone cliffs and hiking trails that give views over the Pacific. The main loop trail is about 2 miles and manageable for most walkers.

Tip: Entry is free if you park along North Torrey Pines Road outside the gate and walk in — the lot inside costs $15 cash only. Go early to avoid heat and crowds.