Growing up in La Jolla, over the years I’ve gathered my go-to spots for photos. Some are newer, some are classics. Today I’m sharing my list of the Most Instagrammable Spots in La Jolla, CA. (And I’ll keep adding to this list as I find more!) There’s a mix of cute cafes, photogenic walls, and more.
Most Instagrammable Spots in La Jolla, CA
Instagrammable La Jolla #1: Parakeet Cafe
Parakeet Cafe is a newer addition to La Jolla, located across the street from my favorite coffee shop in the city, Brick & Bell. (I highly recommend the scones). I love the bright colors of Parakeet, and the yummy food is a plus. Find yourself in Little Italy? They just opened another location.
- Location: 927 Silverado St, La Jolla, CA 92037
- Pro Tip: Head there early for breakfast to grab the best seats for the best photos.
Instagrammable La Jolla #2: La Valencia Hotel
La Valencia Hotel is traditionally known as the iconic pink hotel located above the La Jolla Cove. The striped awnings and pink facade reminds me of a smaller version of the Beverly Hills Hotel. They also have dining options with ocean views if you’re interested in eating.
- Location: 1132 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
Instagrammable La Jolla #3: Scoop’s Ice Cream
I stumbled on Scoop’s Ice Cream while I was heading to La Jolla Shores for a walk. I loved the sign and bright colors!
- Location: 2179 Avenida De La Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037
- Pro Tip: Grab your ice cream and run the block to the beach to get the classic Southern California “ice cream cone at the beach pic” as an alternate option.
Instagrammable La Jolla #4: La Plaza La Jolla
La Plaza La Jolla feels like you walked into a Spanish villa. As the plaza is still relatively new, you can get some great shots later in the day. I personally love the colored tiles on the steps and the arches.
- Location: 7863 & 7877 Girard Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
Instagrammable La Jolla #5: Museum of Contemporary Art
The La Jolla Contemporary Art Museum is one of the most under-rated museums in San Diego, but completely worth a visit. Entrance is free if you’re under 25. Check out their latest installations to see what’s happening.
- Location: 700 Prospect Street, La Jolla, CA 92037-4291
- You can check out my blog post about the museum here.
Instagrammable La Jolla #6: La Jolla Cover & Tidal Pools
There are quite a few little nooks when it comes to taking the perfect photo along the coast of La Jolla Cove. My personal favorite spot is by the tidal pools. I’d recommend going for a walk along the coast, and seeing what you find!
Instagrammable La Jolla #7: Murals of La Jolla
I’ll be honest and say I haven’t taken photos at all of the different murals in La Jolla, however there are a lot of beautiful options! You can check out their site here for a list of all of them.
- Location: Favorite Color Mural, 7596 Eads Avenue
- Pro Tip: For this specific mural, it’s actually in a parking lot. I would try to go early so that you don’t have cars in the photo.
Instagrammable La Jolla #8: Secret Swing at UCSD
I visited this swing on a rainy day back in college (which is why this photo isn’t too great). It is a little fun adventure to find the swing, and on a clear day has a nice view. You can check out this article for how to get there.
- Pro Tip: There is some walking involved, so I’d recommend wearing a closed-toe shoe.
Instagrammable La Jolla #9: Salk Institute
The Salk Institute is every minimalist’s dream location. The architecture to me is a little reminiscent of George Orwell’s 1984, or even a movie set. What it actually is, is a private research institution.
- Location: 10010 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
- Pro Tip: Head there in the late afternoon to get an empty campus perfect for your photos!
Instagrammable La Jolla #10: La Jolla Shores & Scripps Pier
The Scripps Pier is arguably one of the most photographed spots in not just La Jolla, but San Diego in general. It’s a bit of a walk to get here, but completely worth it!
- Location: 8564 El Paseo Grande, La Jolla, CA 92037
- Pro Tip: I’d recommend parking at La Jolla Shores and walking to the pier, it makes for a nice stroll along the water!
Looking for more San Diego articles?
https://www.palmtreesandpellegrino.com/san-diego-city-guide/
https://www.palmtreesandpellegrino.com/san-diego-coffee-guide/
Stay tuned for more Instagrammable spots in LJ. Will add them as I find more!
