La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Guide

Expect a mix of calm paddling, small surf launches, and poking into a handful of sea caves and arches. You’ll see sea lions, harbor seals, and often dolphins or pelicans. The caves themselves are small and dramatic up close; most tours spend about 45-60 minutes near the cliffs. It’s a legitimate workout if there’s any swell, and getting in and out through the surf zone is the most exciting (and sometimes wettest) part. The whole trip usually lasts 2–2.5 hours.

Best time is late spring through early fall (May–October) when the ocean is calmer and visibility is better. Summer mornings are ideal; afternoons can get windier. Winter is possible but expect bigger swells, colder water, and higher chance of cancellations. Water temps range from the mid-50s in winter to low 70s in late summer, so a wetsuit is almost always provided.

Expect to pay around $65–$110 per person depending on group size and whether you go with a basic tour or a smaller, more guided experience. Tip: book a morning tour with a maximum of 8 people if you actually want time inside the caves instead of circling from a distance. Skip the giant mass tours that launch 20+ kayaks at once—they feel more like a cattle drive than a wildlife experience.