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This is a souvenir shop but no one is here for the souvenirs. The line out front is to go down into the cave. Yes, you will wait in line. We waited about 20 minutes, which wasn't too bad. Prices right now are $13 per adult and $7 for kids. There is a parking garage directly opposite the store but it is $35 for the day. If you cannot find street parking, you can valet park in downtown La Jolla for about $20 for three hours, I think. So that is another option. There are, I believe, 145 steps down into the cave (and 145 tougher stairs headed back up, of course). Watch your step and also your head as you go down. The steps are very slippery in places and you will probably need to duck your head in a few other places where the ceiling gets lower. The "cave" itself is nice. You will probably see a bunch of crabs on the rocks and, if you are very lucky, a sea lion (we just saw crabs and kayakers). The waves come in and they splash, the waves head out, and rinse and repeat. You will probably spend 5 to 10 minutes on the deck in the cave watching the waves. Far more people than I expected were sucking wind big time heading up the stairs. I am no athlete and handled the stairs back up fairly easily. But prepare yourself, I guess. I did this experience once about 30 years ago and figured I was one and done. But I did it again because my companions had never done it. This is something to do but keep your expectations well in check. Remember, it is completely free to just walk along the boardwalk just south of the cave and see dozens of sea lions snoozing, barking, swimming, and fighting. I could watch them all day.
This was a very unique and fun experience. Line to get into the store was pretty long. We waited for about 40-45 minutes. Experience itself is about 20 minutes total. We didn't know there was a charge to go inside, paid $12 each I think. But it was very cool to go down and see the cave. The ceilings get quite low so you do have to crouch down going up and down the stairs. There is also water that drips down from the humidity so the stairs are definitely wet in some areas. Hold onto the handrails for sure. Got some nice pictures looking out of the cave.
As a SD native I think going to the cave store to access the cave walk/steps every few years is always a fun treat and view! I will say the price increase has been a lot over the years. Paying over $5 to access the cave seems like a lot, but I understand that they do maintain the cave/steps/railings and it is a historical site and store. The views are great for a few minutes but it's not always a great wonder. I do suggest going early in the morning so it's easy to walk-in and buy your tickets. Also going early helps to avoid the crowd and not have too many people with you on the steps at the same time. I would suggest doing this at least once in your life! Just something fun to do and support local. The store has a lot of great souvenirs and goodies and the staff is always so friendly and welcoming.
Tourist store with access to a cave and some cool pics for $13? Yea I guess its worth it for the one time experience. Parking is extremely difficult to find and they do not have a public restroom. If you see a line outside, that's most likely the line to go into the cave. Workers are friendly and go over the rules with each group before heading into the store to collect payment. Once that's done, you head down the 145 stairs at your own pace
What a cool tour down 145 steps inside a tunnel carved out of stone. At the bottom you arrive in a hollowed out cavern where the ocean has eroded the opening and you are able to view the ocean and the atmosphere is awesome. The cave dates back to over 100 years old. A must see experience! The store is also worth taking a look. I caution that the steps are at different heights so be aware, but they are close together making the climb much easier than expected.
I found this place on Yelp and sounds something different. The price to enter is pretty expensive for what it is 20 for 1 adult and 1 kid, it's a one and done experience and don't think we will come back again. Although it's amazing to walk down the stairs to see the cave and ocean and occasionally wild animals (we got very lucky this time to see some seals up close). It's wet and dark and a lot of steps going back up, so wear comfortable outfits and shoes to avoid injuries.
Ignore the haters in these reviews. Yes, you could very easily climb around rocks nearby but this experience was so much fun. We arrived early, was able to get a parking spot nearby when someone was leaving, there was only 2 people in line ahead of us, we didn't wait long and I think paying $32 for myself and my two boys was well worth it. Even for my teenager this was a fun experience, walking down those steep 145 steps. You're not allowed to bring your drinks down there but the girl who rung us up was nice enough to let me keep my iced latte on a table by the register. Definitely come check this out and knock it off your bucket list!
Souvenir store with cave access. This is a self guided tour that consists of going down 145 steps. Steps are wet and slippery, so just take your time going down to avoid any accident and hold on to the rails. You will be able to take some great pictures. The price in May of this year was $10and $6 for kids.
I have seen this cave store on social media for years and years so when I finally came to San Diego for a long weekend, I knew I wanted to stop by. Parking nearby is straight up difficult; there is street parking available though very often it is occupied. I parked the block above and went through a commercial building that had a series of 3 set of stairs to head down to the street this was located at. I came on a Monday mid-morning. There was a line of 2 people in front of me and it went very fast. It's about $13 for an adult and they sign a waiver using your name to indicate that you won't sue them in case of an accident ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ You MUST bring closed toed shoes and I recommend ones that can deal w going up and down 100+ stairs and not slip and sliding over wet flooring. This is not an accessible cave, if you cannot physically go up and down these stairs, there is no alternative. The stairs themselves are shorter than most stairs and the ceiling of the cave is low; you should hold onto both handlebars for as long as possible on your descend and ascend while slightly hunching over to not hit your head. The view inside the cave is nice and we did see a sea lion napping there and they woke up a bit and vocalized. I think it's a fine cave to visit though it is a bit pricy for what should be a free natural sight.
BE PREPARED TO WALK ON SLIPPERY STEPS, BOTH DOWN AND BACK UP. If you have any issues with your knees, please be cautious coming here. There is a steep staircase you have to climb down and up to check out the cave, so please be prepared! Make sure to sign up for an early slot as the line can get long. Once you're checked in and pay, you head down the staircase until you reach the cave. Be prepared to see some sea life as there was plenty the time we went, including a sea lion! Heading back up the stairs is a little more tricky, so please take your time! Be mindful of the steps being wet and utilize the handrail at all times. Overall, would love to come back! It was really cool to check out.
I have heard about this little shop for many many years. Finally we decided to hike around La Jolla and stop inside. We did a little shopping. Bought some postcards and some earrings. Super cute. Then we decided to pay the small fee of 10 bucks to travel down the 145 steep stairs to the beautiful platform and the cave opening. It was an amazing day such a fun experience hard to believe that we live here we highly recommend everybody come check this out. The parking is a little bit of a challenge but if you try to go during the week better time . Just make sure you watch your head on the way back up ... There's no restrooms at this cute little shop, but there are public restrooms right down the street . I highly recommend you go bring some friends.
gift shop with access to a cave??? yes please for a short adventure!!! as soon as you arrive, just go and line up. standing in line it does smell bad because your close to the ocean and the bird all poop on the cliffs. after the line is when you go inside and buy a ticket. tickets are $13 adult and literally as soon as you get down there it is really pretty. you are on a limit 15 min but the area to take photos look is small so honestly your there 5 mins. (on that note- hope they dont raise up the prices!) still glad we went and did this.
The cave store located off Coast Blvd by La Jolla Cove is definitely a must visit when you're in town. I've lived here for 30 years, and this was my first time going!! Why I waited so long, I don't know. It's definitely a steep trek down, and the stairs can be a bit slippery, so hold on. Once you get down, you will see an amazing view of La Jolla Cove. The trek back up is definitely a workout, bring some water and enjoy! read more
1 month ago
The Cave Store in La Jolla aka the Gem is a unique little adventure. The descent down feels a bit stuffy at first, but once you commit to the stairs it becomes part of the experience. Heads up: the steps are slippery, so take it slow, and the climb back up is definitely a workout. Once you reach the bottom, the view opens up into something absolutely stunning. The cave and ocean feel almost unreal together Just be aware you might get a little wet depending on the tide level, so it's smart to check conditions before going. read more
Checked out The Cave Store in San Diego--the one where you walk down through the shop and end up in a sea cave right at the ocean. Yes, that alone is pretty cool. From what we were told (and saw), you can sometimes spot seals or sea lions hanging out near the cave, depending on timing and luck. I wouldn't guarantee wildlife sightings, but the setting itself is the real draw. Is it worth the $10 per person? That honestly depends on you. Some people might say no--it's a short experience and mostly about the view. Personally, I enjoyed it. The cave is beautiful, the ocean views are legit, and it felt like one of those very "San Diego" moments. We went in the morning, which I highly recommend. It was cool, calm, and not crowded or blazing hot. That made a big difference. Important heads-up: wear good shoes. The stairs are steep, a bit damp, and can be slick in spots. Flip-flops would be a bad idea unless you like tempting fate. Bottom line: Not a must-do for everyone, but if you like unique views, coastal scenery, and quick experiences with a little adventure baked in, it's worth checking out at least once. I'm glad we did. read more
This is a souvenir shop but no one is here for the souvenirs. The line out front is to go down into the cave. Yes, you will wait in line. We waited about 20 minutes, which wasn't too bad. Prices right now are $13 per adult and $7 for kids. There is a parking garage directly opposite the store but it is $35 for the day. If you cannot find street parking, you can valet park in downtown La Jolla for about $20 for three hours, I think. So that is another option. There are, I believe, 145 steps down into the cave (and 145 tougher stairs headed back up, of course). Watch your step and also your head as you go down. The steps are very slippery in places and you will probably need to duck your head in a few other places where the ceiling gets lower. The "cave" itself is nice. You will probably see a bunch of crabs on the rocks and, if you are very lucky, a sea lion (we just saw crabs and kayakers). The waves come in and they splash, the waves head out, and rinse and repeat. You will probably spend 5 to 10 minutes on the deck in the cave watching the waves. Far more people than I expected were sucking wind big time heading up the stairs. I am no athlete and handled the stairs back up fairly easily. But prepare yourself, I guess. I did this experience once about 30 years ago and figured I was one and done. But I did it again because my companions had never done it. This is something to do but keep your expectations well in check. Remember, it is completely free to just walk along the boardwalk just south of the cave and see dozens of sea lions snoozing, barking, swimming, and fighting. I could watch them all day. read more
5 months ago
6 days ago
This was a very unique and fun experience. Line to get into the store was pretty long. We waited for about 40-45 minutes. Experience itself is about 20 minutes total. We didn't know there was a charge to go inside, paid $12 each I think. But it was very cool to go down and see the cave. The ceilings get quite low so you do have to crouch down going up and down the stairs. There is also water that drips down from the humidity so the stairs are definitely wet in some areas. Hold onto the handrails for sure. Got some nice pictures looking out of the cave. read more
8 months ago
As a SD native I think going to the cave store to access the cave walk/steps every few years is always a fun treat and view! I will say the price increase has been a lot over the years. Paying over $5 to access the cave seems like a lot, but I understand that they do maintain the cave/steps/railings and it is a historical site and store. The views are great for a few minutes but it's not always a great wonder. I do suggest going early in the morning so it's easy to walk-in and buy your tickets. Also going early helps to avoid the crowd and not have too many people with you on the steps at the same time. I would suggest doing this at least once in your life! Just something fun to do and support local. The store has a lot of great souvenirs and goodies and the staff is always so friendly and welcoming. read more
Tourist store with access to a cave and some cool pics for $13? Yea I guess its worth it for the one time experience. Parking is extremely difficult to find and they do not have a public restroom. If you see a line outside, that's most likely the line to go into the cave. Workers are friendly and go over the rules with each group before heading into the store to collect payment. Once that's done, you head down the 145 stairs at your own pace read more
What a cool tour down 145 steps inside a tunnel carved out of stone. At the bottom you arrive in a hollowed out cavern where the ocean has eroded the opening and you are able to view the ocean and the atmosphere is awesome. The cave dates back to over 100 years old. A must see experience! The store is also worth taking a look. I caution that the steps are at different heights so be aware, but they are close together making the climb much easier than expected. read more
I found this place on Yelp and sounds something different. The price to enter is pretty expensive for what it is 20 for 1 adult and 1 kid, it's a one and done experience and don't think we will come back again. Although it's amazing to walk down the stairs to see the cave and ocean and occasionally wild animals (we got very lucky this time to see some seals up close). It's wet and dark and a lot of steps going back up, so wear comfortable outfits and shoes to avoid injuries. read more
Ignore the haters in these reviews. Yes, you could very easily climb around rocks nearby but this experience was so much fun. We arrived early, was able to get a parking spot nearby when someone was leaving, there was only 2 people in line ahead of us, we didn't wait long and I think paying $32 for myself and my two boys was well worth it. Even for my teenager this was a fun experience, walking down those steep 145 steps. You're not allowed to bring your drinks down there but the girl who rung us up was nice enough to let me keep my iced latte on a table by the register. Definitely come check this out and knock it off your bucket list! read more
5 months ago
Souvenir store with cave access. This is a self guided tour that consists of going down 145 steps. Steps are wet and slippery, so just take your time going down to avoid any accident and hold on to the rails. You will be able to take some great pictures. The price in May of this year was $10and $6 for kids. read more
10 months ago
I have seen this cave store on social media for years and years so when I finally came to San Diego for a long weekend, I knew I wanted to stop by. Parking nearby is straight up difficult; there is street parking available though very often it is occupied. I parked the block above and went through a commercial building that had a series of 3 set of stairs to head down to the street this was located at. I came on a Monday mid-morning. There was a line of 2 people in front of me and it went very fast. It's about $13 for an adult and they sign a waiver using your name to indicate that you won't sue them in case of an accident ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ You MUST bring closed toed shoes and I recommend ones that can deal w going up and down 100+ stairs and not slip and sliding over wet flooring. This is not an accessible cave, if you cannot physically go up and down these stairs, there is no alternative. The stairs themselves are shorter than most stairs and the ceiling of the cave is low; you should hold onto both handlebars for as long as possible on your descend and ascend while slightly hunching over to not hit your head. The view inside the cave is nice and we did see a sea lion napping there and they woke up a bit and vocalized. I think it's a fine cave to visit though it is a bit pricy for what should be a free natural sight. read more
10 months ago
BE PREPARED TO WALK ON SLIPPERY STEPS, BOTH DOWN AND BACK UP. If you have any issues with your knees, please be cautious coming here. There is a steep staircase you have to climb down and up to check out the cave, so please be prepared! Make sure to sign up for an early slot as the line can get long. Once you're checked in and pay, you head down the staircase until you reach the cave. Be prepared to see some sea life as there was plenty the time we went, including a sea lion! Heading back up the stairs is a little more tricky, so please take your time! Be mindful of the steps being wet and utilize the handrail at all times. Overall, would love to come back! It was really cool to check out. read more
1 year ago
I have heard about this little shop for many many years. Finally we decided to hike around La Jolla and stop inside. We did a little shopping. Bought some postcards and some earrings. Super cute. Then we decided to pay the small fee of 10 bucks to travel down the 145 steep stairs to the beautiful platform and the cave opening. It was an amazing day such a fun experience hard to believe that we live here we highly recommend everybody come check this out. The parking is a little bit of a challenge but if you try to go during the week better time . Just make sure you watch your head on the way back up ... There's no restrooms at this cute little shop, but there are public restrooms right down the street . I highly recommend you go bring some friends. read more
1 year ago
每一天的努力都是人生最好的答案， 要像星星一樣發光，照亮自己也溫暖他人～ 到SD, La Jolla 怎麼能不拜訪， 這次終於來這個從店裡往下走的洞穴， 一個人要付10 元呢，不過這個10塊錢，我覺得是有點貴的，因為你走下去之後就是只能在遠遠的照個洞穴的相片裡面烏漆嘛黑， 可能很多人會覺得不值得這個價格，不過四個女人開心的小確幸旅程, 比跟團好玩太多了 read more
gift shop with access to a cave??? yes please for a short adventure!!! as soon as you arrive, just go and line up. standing in line it does smell bad because your close to the ocean and the bird all poop on the cliffs. after the line is when you go inside and buy a ticket. tickets are $13 adult and literally as soon as you get down there it is really pretty. you are on a limit 15 min but the area to take photos look is small so honestly your there 5 mins. (on that note- hope they dont raise up the prices!) still glad we went and did this. read more
4 months ago
It stinks, it's hot, damp and a difficult climb back to the top. The platform at the bottom doenst fit many ppl so just as soon as you get there you have to go back up to make room for the next ppl. Check it out one time only, and on a cold day, early in the morning. Otherwise it's too much. read more
8 months ago
I LOVE a tourist trap. Tourist traps get a bad name but they are a dying breed and must be revived and supported. I really think that they should lean more into the 'smugglers cave' lore because that makes it super interesting, maybe even an option to pay for some history about that. Did I spend 67 dollars on garb and trinkets that say 'I survived the cave'? Yes. Was the 1.5 hour drive out to this cave necessarily worth it? I don't think it matters. It's a tourist trap through and through and it needs to be cherished. Five stars. Take my money. I love an empty promise. read more
The line took about 30 minutes to get through. Everyone working was friendly. It's now $13 per person to go down into the cave. The stairs aren't too steep but are slippery. It got humid inside but worth a trip at least once. read more
1 year ago
I was expecting something more exciting, but honestly, this was a letdown. You pay to walk down a flight of steps to an opening that looks out to the ocean, then walk right back up. That's it. If you're hoping for a unique experience, you won't find it here. If your main goal is to see seals or sea lions, skip the wait and just head to the beach--you'll get a better view without the hassle. If you're looking to explore caves, this is not it. This spot is completely overrated. Save yourself the trip and explore the area in a way that actually feels worthwhile. read more
11 months ago
4 months ago
Must-do tourist event when visiting La Jolla. Quick in-and-out activity that went well with the hike along the coast to see the wildlife. We are from Kansas, and you can really appreciate the power of the ocean inside the cave experience. read more
11 months ago
It's an interesting place to visit which it's a nice little gift shop. We wanted to walk down to the cave so we did & enjoyed it but that walk up was a little rough haha if you have any type of walking disability I wouldn't try walking down those steps! The walk way/steps were wet do to water seeping through the walls & the over head would come down some so I had to duck for part of it & I'm 5'10"! Overall enjoyed this little adventure! read more
2 months ago
My second time exploring the cave store and again it's amazing to see. Went again so hubby can see it and he likes even do is a short.. For parking go to houses around you can park all day or the plaza (2hrs free) or even the La Jolla Park its free for 2hrs too. The public parking charges $35.00 :( There is no public bathroom at the cave, but you can walk up to the La Jolla Park and there is restroom and you can also see the La Jolla Cove and enjoy the sea lions. read more
2 years ago
I really enjoyed this attraction. We kept an open mind visiting this store excited to see the cave. There was a line outside at around 2:30 when arrived and it was about a 45 minute wait before getting to go in. You are required to do a safety waiver which includes giving the employee your full name. You then pay the adult fee ($10) with the cashier inside before heading into the cave. The lighting isn't so great at the cave entrance but it is really nice. We saw a sleeping seal on the rocks below :) Definitely something to see if you're at least curious about it! read more
1 year ago
Super cute!! Very much a secret the staff is nice abd the shop is a vibe. The stairs down are a bit steep but doable. My toddler made it up, I was a bit nervous to let him walk down. The area was already a very good vibe alone! This was a really nice touch. The price is a bit much, but hey what are you gonna do. read more
2 years ago
I moved here 3 years ago and have been wanting to go down into the cave ever since! I've been to the cave store multiple times, but never down into the cave. The lines on the weekends wrap around on the sidewalk. We grabbed our tickets and walked down the narrow tunnel. The steps got a bit slick towards the end, but it was worth it when we got to the end and it opened up into the cave! You are allowed 15 minutes down there. It is a smaller area, so make sure you get your photos in quickly! It's a neat experience, but it is a small space and you don't have too much time down there. read more
Came to see the store and the step down into the cave to see the ocean. Prices are a little high for the quick visual. There are 145 steps which are dark, wet, and slippery but there are handrails to assist you. A nice picturesque area at the end. Lots of neat items in their shop - you definitely need to look at all they have. Worth going to at least once. read more
1 year ago
It's not worth it. There's better picture locations for FREE. We expected a lot more, but you just go down some stairs and the pictures don't come out good if you're trying to be in it. Me and my friends don't recommend read more
4 months ago
7 months ago
Business owner information
Shannon S.
Hi Kristine,…
8 months ago
As natives of San Diego, we'd somehow never done this--and wow, if you haven't, you absolutely have to check it out! The Cave Store is the coolest experience ever. Be ready for a workout with all the stairs--you have to walk down and back up--but the view at the bottom is 100% worth it. Truly unforgettable! read more
1 year ago
Interesting experience in the cave tour. The only other cave I went to was in Spain which was larger, but this is quaint and a good walk. read more
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More info about Cave Store
1325 Coast Blvd
La Jolla, CA 92037
La Jolla
Directions
(858) 459-0746
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http://www.cavestore.com/
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Ask the Community - Cave Store
Can I bring my medium-sized dog inside?
YOu may bring them inside the store but only in the tunnel if you can carry them up and down. No exceptions.
Open on thanksgiving day?
I don't think so, they will most likely be open the day before & after.
Is the store still doing appointments only still? Or can we do walk ins for the tour?
I was there in May on a Friday and they were doing walk ins
Do you need to make a reservation to go down to the cave, still?
They accept walk-ins
What's the best time to go? Mornings or afternoon when the sun is setting? Thank you!
I think around sunset could be pretty but the stairs leading down to the cave are really dark so getting to the end of that and seeing the daylight was nice. I honestly think it's all hit or miss. I read that some people have seen seals on the rocks… Read more
I have two huskies. Can they go into the cave with me? They are very well behaved and I am able to still have my hands free to hold.
Hi Alysa, thank you for your interest in the sea cave. We only allow dogs in the tunnel if they can be carried throughout the entire tour. Because of the physical exertion involved in the cave tours (including the climb of roughly 10 flights of… Read more
Can I bring my dogs into the cave while carrying them with me?
As long as your dog is small enough to carry! We do advise you have hands free to hold onto the handrails as the stairs in the tunnel can get slippery.
Review Highlights - Cave Store
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Cave Store - walkingtours - Updated May 2026
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