Continuing our 24 Hours in La Jolla series, we asked La Jolla locals Preston and Kilah to share how they would spend 24 hours in the place they call home. From early morning coffee runs to sunset wine and late-night gelato, their guide maps out exactly where to go and when. Think of this as your 24 Hour La Jolla itinerary, perfect for a weekend trip to La Jolla or a thoughtfully planned La Jolla walking itinerary, complete with tips and recommendations on how to truly spend it like a local.

 

Morning

Where’s your first stop for coffee, and what’s your order?
Brick & Bell. No debate. You really can’t go wrong with any of their lattes, but my personal favorite is their cold brew. Their coffee is second to none in La Jolla.

Best morning activity outside of dining?
Walk the Cove. It’s a La Jolla Cove must-see and one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in California. You get dramatic cliffs, sweeping views toward La Jolla Shores, and of course the fan favorite, the seals. It’s also one of the most iconic walkable things to do in La Jolla, especially in the early morning when the light hits just right.

Favorite casual breakfast spot (what to order + best seat)?
The Cottage. A La Jolla classic. Joe’s Special, two egg scramble, chicken sausage, spinach, mushrooms, onions, served with a scone and cottage potatoes, is my go-to but the star of the show is the scone it comes with. All their pastries are made in-house and melt in your mouth. 

Try to grab a corner table on the outdoor patio. That’s the move.

What’s one thing you will always wake up early for in La Jolla?
Pop-Up Bagels. Yes, the line looks intimidating. Yes, people say it’s overhyped. But also yes,  it’s as good as advertised. The only way to do it is to go early, skip the line, and get the full menu options.

 

Midday

Best place for a casual lunch and what’s your go-to dish?
Smallgoods Cheese Shop. It feels like a local secret. You walk in for the cheese counter and stay for the sandwiches. Everything is made with serious attention to quality, but it never feels overworked. My go-to is the sobrasada with ham. Rich, a little spicy, layered on fresh bread that lets the ingredients do the talking. It’s simple, unfussy, and exactly what a great casual lunch should be.

Where do you go midday when you want to be outside but avoid crowds?
We Olive. It’s part olive oil shop, part tucked-away wine bar, and easy to miss if you don’t know it’s there. Head straight to the back deck overlooking the ocean. It’s one of those understated La Jolla scenic spots that feels like you discovered it yourself. Quiet, picturesque, and just removed enough from the main flow to feel like your own little escape. A glass of wine, a few small bites, sun on your shoulders, and a slower pace to match.

What’s the easiest plan for lunch that doesn’t require a reservation?
Puesto. There are a few locations around San Diego, which makes it an easy default, but it never feels generic. The space is lively, there’s plenty of seating, and the menu is consistently strong.

You can’t go wrong with their tacos, but the real anchor is the margarita. It’s the kind of spot you suggest when you want great Mexican food without overthinking it.

What’s your go-to activity if you only have an hour or two to work with?
Head to the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego in La Jolla. The artwork is compelling, the architecture is striking, and the ocean views alone make it worth the stop.

If you want to stretch the visit, grab a table at The Kitchen. It stands on its own among La Jolla restaurants. Even better, admission is free on the second Sunday and third Thursday of each month, which makes it an easy, spontaneous plan.

 

Golden Hour to Evening

What’s the best time to head out in the evening to get a front row seat for sunset?
Plan to head out 30 to 45 minutes before sunset. That window gives you enough time to find your spot, settle in, and fully enjoy the shift in light, a perfect close to any thoughtfully planned La Jolla coastal itinerary.

It does get busy, so leaving a little early helps if you have a favorite viewpoint in mind. Still, the coastline stretches far and wide, so you can always find your own pocket of sand or bluff to take it all in without feeling rushed.

Go-to spot for a drink at sunset (and where to sit)?

Skip the restaurant scene and grab a bottle of wine instead. Head to the north side of Marine Street Beach and use the Coast Street entrance. It feels tucked away. If the tide is low enough, settle into the sand and watch the sky shift. It’s easily one of the best sunset views on the West Coast and ranks among the best things to do in La Jolla, especially if you’re narrowing down things to do in La Jolla in one day.

If you want more of a rooftop moment, book a table at Birdseye Rooftop. Ask for a west-facing or corner table along the terrace railing for full ocean views. Arrive about 60 minutes before sunset so you get that long golden hour glow before the sun drops

Favorite date night spot right now and what to order?
Takaramono Sushi, newly opened within the last year. Sit at the bar. Order the salmon baguette and the uni shooter to start the evening and get ready for some of the best sushi in San Diego. By far the best sushi restaurant we have been to!

Where are you ending the night: dessert, drink, or quiet overlook?

Bobboi. Best gelato you’ll get outside of Italy. The gelato is churned daily with organic ingredients and classic technique. Clean flavors, perfect texture, nothing overcomplicated. 

Nightcap options?
My go to is The Whaling Bar. They have great craft cocktails and energy that has an upscale feel without being pretentious.

For something a little more dive-y and lively: The Spot. Generally pretty buzzing on weekends, good vibes all around.

 

Local Tips

One spot more people should know about?
If you’re in the mood for something local, try Taco Time Cantina. And to be clear, Taco Time, not Taco Stand. It’s just as good, arguably better, and you won’t be stuck in a long line. The tacos are dialed, the vibe is easy, and if you go, say hello to Cesar behind the counter.

Best way to get around without a car?
Walk. Everything in the Village is close. If you need to go further, rent a bike and you’ll be in reach of the Shores + Bird Rock.

One thing to plan ahead?
Dinner reservations. It’s a major tourist destination and locals love it too. Book your evenings in advance.

Advice for a first-time visitor?

Relax. Don’t over-plan. La Jolla is best enjoyed at an easy pace. And pack a sweatshirt. Even in perfect San Diego weather, it gets breezy at night.