La Jolla Cove is a small coastal cove on the Pacific coast at La Jolla in San Diego, California, characterized by rocky reef, grass beds, rock piles, ledges, and a small cave that create varied underwater terrain for freediving and scuba diving. It is known for frequent marine life encounters including sea lions, garibaldi, opaleye, and other reef species within the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve, and nearby kelp forest habitat supports additional species such as giant sea bass and lobster. The cove is also used for snorkeling, swimming, and wildlife viewing; fishing and removal of marine life are prohibited within the reserve, and divers or snorkelers may contact local dive operators or guides for conditions and advice.

• Visibility: typically 3–12 m, often 3–6 m and on clear calm days up to around 12 m

• Depth Range: 6–15 m (20–50 ft)

• Water Temperature: ~10–20 °C, cooler in winter and warmer in late summer/early fall

• Water Conditions: sheltered with light to moderate surge; swell and currents can vary and affect visibility

• Seasonality: summer to early fall generally offers warmer water and better visibility; conditions vary year-round

• Transportation: Shore access on foot; parking is limited near the cove, especially in summer. Paid parking garages are available nearby, and free street parking may be found in residential areas near Torrey Pines Road, requiring a short walk. Traffic congestion can occur along Coast Boulevard.

• Local rules: located in an ecological reserve where fishing and removal of marine life are prohibited; floating devices are restricted by local ordinance