La Jolla Cove is San Diego’s most desirable spot for swimming, snorkeling and diving.

The water is calm and ecologically protected, providing a safe home for colorful garibaldi, yellowtail, rays and even leopard sharks. Because the water is protected, surfboards, boogie boards and other floatation devices are not permitted. The beach itself is small, but nearby Scripps Park offers a nice grassy expanse for spreading out. Parking is available in nearby paid lots, with a few street spots available for the lucky.

Photo by Charles Edward