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La Jolla Cove Sea Lions & Cave Snorkeling Tour

Guided
See all snorkeling tours in San Diego
Locally Owned
Wildlife
Small Group Sizes
Free Cancellation
On the Water
Instant Book

Pricing

Guided Snorkeling Tour

Priced per person, ages 14+

$90

All Prices

Guided Snorkeling Tour

Priced per person, ages 14+

$90

Description

Guided Snorkeling in the La Jolla Cove Marine Sanctuary – San Diego, CA

Explore one of San Diego's most beautiful coastal areas on this snorkeling tour of La Jolla Cove and its famous sea caves. This shore-entry tour takes place in a protected marine reserve teeming with sea lions, seals, and a variety of fish species and other wildlife — no boat involved, with the launch straight from shore into the marine sanctuary.

Swim alongside playful sea lions and seals, snorkel among colorful fish, and take in the dramatic coastal cliffs of this stunning marine sanctuary. When ocean conditions permit, the tour includes exploring one or more of La Jolla's renowned sea caves.

This is an active, ocean-based experience designed for confident swimmers who are comfortable spending time in open water.

Duration

  1. 90 minutes total.
  2. This includes 30 minutes for gearing up and safety instruction, followed by 60 minutes of guided snorkeling in the La Jolla Cove marine sanctuary.
  3. Morning and afternoon tours are offered daily.

Location / Where to Meet

  1. You will meet your guide at the La Jolla Cove Flag Pole.  More instructions/directions will be provided after booking.
  2. Please arrive 30 minutes early.

Ages & Requirements

  1. Minimum age: 14 years. Participants ages 14–17 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
  2. Participants must be confident swimmers, as this is a physically demanding tour involving swimming in open ocean conditions — non-swimmers are not permitted on the group tour and must take the instruction class instead.
  3. Flotation devices are not permitted at this location.
  4. Wetsuits are required and provided.
  5. Please inform the tour operator of any medical conditions prior to your tour so they can accommodate as much as possible. Not recommended for guests with medical conditions that may limit safe participation.
  6. Maximum group size is 8 people.

What's Included

  1. Guided snorkeling tour with safety instruction
  2. Snorkel and mask
  3. Swim fins
  4. Wetsuit
  5. Waterproof phone case
  6. Anti-fog Towel
  7. Water & Snacks
  8. Secure storage of personal items

Not Included

  1. Gratuity
  2. Optional Filmography package — high-quality underwater footage of your group and wildlife, sent to you ($25 per file transfer)

What to Bring / Wear

  1. Swimsuit to wear under your wetsuit
  2. Valid government-issued photo ID

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY La Jolla Caves Snorkel & Watersports

FAQs

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?

Yes. This tour is designed for confident swimmers who are comfortable spending time in open water. It is a physically demanding, active ocean experience, and flotation devices are not permitted at this location. Non-swimmers are not permitted on the group tour but can book the snorkel instruction class instead.

Will I definitely see sea lions and seals?

La Jolla Cove is a protected marine reserve that is home to sea lions, seals, various fish species, and other wildlife. While sightings are common, these are wild animals in their natural habitat and encounters are never guaranteed.

Will we explore the sea caves?

The tour includes exploring one or more of La Jolla's famous sea caves when ocean conditions permit. Because this depends on the ocean and weather, cave access cannot be guaranteed on every tour.

Is this a protected area?

Yes. The La Jolla Marine Reserve is a strict "No Touch and No Take" area. Guests must follow all guide instructions and posted lifeguard rules, and avoid disturbing wildlife, to protect this special ecosystem.

Cancellation Policy

Customers will receive a full refund or credit with 48 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund or credit in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. NO SHOWS AND LATE ARRIVALS WILL NOT RECEIVE A REFUND OR BE REBOOKED.

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Availability

October 2026

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Reviews

Location

Address

1160 Coast Boulevard

San Diego, CA, 92037

US

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