Are you thinking about going snorkeling in La Jolla? La Jolla Ecological Reserve is a fantastic place to go snorkeling—in fact; it’s rated one of the top ten places to go snorkeling in the world! However, what should you expect? Is there anything you should look forward to? In today’s blog, we will be going over 5 things you need to know regarding snorkeling in La Jolla.
1. You Never Know What You Might See
Have you ever been to a nice place before but gotten bored of seeing the same things after going multiple times? That’s not an issue you’ll face here in La Jolla! La Jolla is home to an incredible variety of sea creatures, so no matter how many times you go, you’ll always be surprised by what you may see! Snorkeling in La Jolla gives you the rare opportunity to see dozens of marine life up close and personal. The warm waters of La Jolla and its protected cove attract fish and mammals all along the coast. While you never know what you’ll encounter, examples of sea creatures you can potentially see include:
- Garibaldi
- Urchins
- Leopard sharks
- Octopus
- Sea stars
- Dolphins
- Shovel nose guitar fish
- Schools of fish (big & small)
- Sea turtle
- Seals
- Sea lions
2. You Can Snorkel Through Some Breathtaking Sea Caves
Did you know that La Jolla is home to seven caves? These seven caves include:
- Clam Cave
- Sunny Jim’s
- Arches
- Shopping Cart
- White Lady
- Little Sister
- Sea Surprize
The largest of these seven caves is the Clam Cave. When the tide allows, visitors can snorkel through it to the other side. The other six caves are viewable from the water. There is usually a plethora of sea life cluttered near the caves, making it a great site for snorkeling!
3. Hundreds of Leopard Sharks
Each year, hundreds of pregnant female leopard sharks migrate to the beaches of La Jolla Cove, where the warm water helps their young develop more quickly. This takes place between the months of June and December. This is truly a one-of-a-kind experience you cannot find anywhere else in California. If you’re planning on snorkeling here in La Jolla, checking out the leopard sharks is a must-do if you enjoy snorkeling!
4. The La Jolla Ecological Reserve is Federally Protected
The La Jolla Underwater Park was created in 1970 by the city of San Diego, and both the Marine Life Refuge and Ecological Reserve lie within it. The Reserve is federally protected. Fishing and the collection of any item are outlawed. Even taking a tiny shell as a souvenir is prohibited, so keep in mind not to take anything found on the Reserve. Thanks to this very strict protection, marine life has flourished over the past few years—helping keep this place excellent for snorkeling.
5. There’s a Secret Underwater Graveyard
Did you know that the Park and Reserve are made up of two underwater canyons, two artificial reefs, and kelp forests that span across 6,000 acres underwater? Besides offering snorkelers a beautiful and geographically fascinating place to snorkel, there is something unique found in the underwater canyon: a secret underwater graveyard! Just beyond the coastline—around 100 yards out from the La Jolla Cove Bridge and 45 feet underwater—lies an eerie underwear memorial, commonly known as “Tombstones.” While there are no bodies found down there, you can find several markers that are dedicated to fallen spearfishermen and members of the “Bottom Scratchers”—the very first documented diving and spearmen club in North America. Over time, many new markers have been placed for other faller locals and divers. This tradition began back in the 1940s, and has continued up till this day.
Snorkeling in La Jolla With Trident Divers
La Jolla has many exciting things to offer! From a wide variety of gorgeous sea creatures to breathtaking sea caves, there are many things to see. If you’re planning to go snorkeling in La Jolla, Trident Divers is more than happy to help guide you on this adventure. Give us a call at (619) 415-9462 or click here to book your snorkel tour with us today!
