Nature Spot

Seal Rock Reserve

La Jolla, CA, US

SPOT TYPE: Fauna
Access: Walk In
INFO: TBD

Highlights

Children's Pool Beach is a small sandy beach area that is a wonderful location to get a look at the local population of sea lions and seals in La Jolla. Protected by a sea wall built in the 1930s, the area was supposed to be a safe place for children to swim. Over time, the area was filled with more sand than anticipated. The harbor seals gravitated toward the calm water here (especially during their pupping season) and have taken over the area — much to the dismay of some residents but to the delight of others. The area is the only National Oceanic and Atmospheric (NOAA) recognized mainland harbor seal rookery between the U.S./Mexico Border and Ventura County.

CONSERVATION STATUS

>

Spot Community

>

Location Information

>

Rules and Regulations

>

Address

Children's Pool Beach, 850 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, California, 92037, United States

About this Nature Spot

Both locals and tourists have a tendency to take the Cove for granted and forget its natural residents when going swimming or visiting the beach. Don’t leave trash on the La Jolla Cove or Children’s Pool beach or try to feed the seals and sea lions, as both of these activities can harm the animals. If you’re swimming in an area where seals may be present, keep an eye out so you’re not surprised if one shows up, and stay some distance away. Remember, you are a visitor in their environment, not the other way around.

Gear you'll need

Binoculars
Camera

Nature 101

with Jess Waters

>

Nature

GREEN GUIDE

with Justin Puda

>

Nature 101

with Jess Waters

>

Nature

GREEN GUIDE

with Justin Puda

>

Tips

PARKING

Plenty of street parking all along Coast Blvd and the surrounding streets. Make sure to keep an eye out for metered parking and check street signs for paid parking hours.

ACCESS

Easy access via a short walk from the street and down the steps to the beach.

SAFETY

Wear close-toed shoes if you plan on walking out on the beach or any rocky areas. It can get slippery very quickly out there, especially coming down the stairs to get to La Jolla Cove.