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Came on a weekday so there wasn't a crowd, good experience doing the staircase to Sunny Jim's Cave! Picked up some souvenirs from the gift shop after. There were points of the stairs that were wet and a little slippery, but it warns about that and is natural. $13 for the experience makes sense for the area and would recommend checking out if it's not too busy! Definitely recommend taking in the views from the Coast Walk Trail afterwards!!
I did it went down the 145 steps and back up. Reminds me of the Winchester mystery house steps. Glad we came when it was not busy and early enough that it didn't get hot. Beautiful cave and view at bottom.
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!
Service: Service was okay. The staff inside at the cashier station were a bit unprofessional. Value: The cost I believe was $13 per adult and $7 per child. The stairs down to the cave is 145 steps. The view is pretty cool from the cave but it is a bit pricey considering you can be in and out in under 15-min. It was a good one-time experience but probably wont be back. Its one of those one and done type of locations. Was def beautiful though.
Plenty of free parking spots along the beach, but it gets crowded. This was such a cute place!!!! Admission is $13, and it's well worth the price. Staff is friendly and nice. They explain a little waiver and explain the little hike for you. We went in the morning when they opened, so it was very empty. When we left, it got very crowded with large parties. I will come back to bring my friends!! It's a must, and we will come at opening. It's such a nice little cave. It's very short, but it's worth it. It's very steep too, so obviously watch your step. Use the handrails! The view is beautiful. I wouldn't recommend r wearing sandals. It's moist and wet inside. Some of the steps have running water. The breeze at the end is calming. You can see fellow kayakers along the water. They waive at you too! It's fun.
This place is definitely a good workout it has over 140 steps and they make you sign a waiver before going so definitely stretch before going down the stairs. Paid $13 per person. But they have SD student and military discounts.
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.
I finally decided to check this place out after living in San Diego for almost a decade. I'd always seen long lines of people waiting to go into the caves, so I purposely came on a weekday right after they opened during low tides. Luckily there was no line at all, and I was able to buy my ticket easily with a card when I got there. The cave itself is definitely cool to see once, but honestly, in my opinion, it felt a bit like a tourist trap. I just personally don't think it was worth the $13 admission. Still, I'm glad I finally went and experienced it for myself after hearing about it for so many years.
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.
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
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.
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.
Reviews are mixed. Many enjoy the unique cave experience, noting friendly staff and an interesting gift shop.
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5 years ago
This place was incredible! We didn't know about this place but we're walking around and went in. That's when we heard a worker talking about the cave. We knew we had to go down. We are so thrilled to have found this amazing opportunity. It is a bit slippery, but the experience is worth it. read more
The beach is stunning at La Jolla Cove and its peculiar-shaped cave is awesome. I thoroughly enjoyed the creepy walk down the long stone staircase to the cave's opening. I felt like Harry Potter when he was banned from visiting Hogsmead and found a secret tunnel with a long staircase inside Hogwarts that lead him right to the Honeydukes cellar! But beware, the walk back up is nothing short of an Insanity workout (my thighs burned like hell halfway back up). The only thing you see when you look out of the opening of the cave is the sky meeting the magnificent blue ocean. The rest of the cave is dark, wet, and clamy. Adults fee is $5 and child fee is $3. I think it's worth it :) read more
Very tourist trappy place but if you're in the area I would say it is worth checking out once or at least just read the sign about the cave's history and save some money and go enjoy the view from the street instead. If you do go, I would highly recommend trying to not go on a weekend as when I went it was very crowded in the store and crowded downstairs in the cave. They don't do any crowd management and when I went there were multiple large families ahead of me who took a ton of photos at every angle possible so I went back up before even getting all the way to the railing. read more
5 years ago
Only $10 to walk down the steps and see a beautiful site. Due to me visiting in October and not a weekend I didn't have to wait in line and only 2 other couples were ahead. Great experience! read more
4 years ago
13 years ago
ONLY $4! Quick, tourist-y thing to do when in La Jolla. 145 steps down... AND back up again. Cool view when you get to the bottom at the cave's opening. It's 145 steps down a tunnel to the cave! I'm claustrophobic. I have bad knees. I don't like doing things by myself. I DID THIS! And I'm really glad I did :) When you're done, walk back out the door of the store, turn to your right and walk the bluffs! It's a beautiful, scenic, mixed terrain trail!!! read more
7 years ago
Best $5 I have spent in a while. Cute souvenir shop up top and incredible cave down below. Steep, slippery narrow wooden steps to the base of the cave - only one way down and one way up. Worth the trip down to see the sun and the ocean through Sunny Jim. read more
3 years ago
5 years ago
I definitely recommend to visit this gem in La Jolla! Superb! It was so enchanting to see. I felt like my soul was embraced, by staring at it. Worth the money to spend and experience read more
As everyone else said, it does cost 4 bucks per person. In my opinion, it's probably worth doing once just to see what all the fuss is about but I couldn't see myself paying 4 bucks to see it again. There are 145 steps to get down to the cave and it is very narrow. It is best to go early in the morning before it gets crowded because it is annoying to have to squeeze by people coming up while you are going down (and vice versa). The cave itself is neat and pictures never do it justice. It is very dark down there and the backlight from the cave opening makes it nearly impossible to take a picture of someone and not have them look like a black blob. The whole thing is pretty touristy and only takes 20 min total (5 min each way climbing stairs and 10 min at the bottom). Once you leave make sure you walk behind the cave shop to the lookout point for some nice ocean views! read more
9 years ago
Limited prkg space in front of store. Prkg garage across. Waited for prkg attendant for 5mins, then decided to park as that person never showed up. Went there rt at 10am when they opened so no wait. Short walk down and up. With toddler in hand going up seems longer. Shouldn't be longer than 15min spent here. Bring a good camera as I only took pics from phone. Expected more but was cool to walk thru the cave straight to the water. Heard kayakers stop to look but none that day. The store sells soda, snacks, jewelry and some souvenirs. Very small store. read more
7 years ago
What a great Local shop! They had several unique and fun gifts! Also the amazing CAVE how cool! In the store they have great information on the cave and the history. If this isn't on you list of things to do in La Jolla, I suggest you add it! read more
Really Nice Tourist attraction.. Never been to San Diego before, a friend suggested that we go here.. You walk into the store and pay $4 to walk down and go see the Caves.. I was a little scared at first.. everyone coming up was out of breath.. but than I noticed everyone was out of shape.. ;-) Once you get down the View is Amazing.. Don't think I would pay $4 again.. but if you never been it's well worth it.. read more
This is the only one of seven la jolla caves accessible by land. The entrance is through the charming "Cave Store". The entrance costs $5. There are 141 steps down a man made tunnel to get to the cave. Apparently during the prohibition era, liquor was smuggled up through this tunnel to bring into La Jolla! Be careful with the stairs, the ceiling can be very low at times and can be a little slippery - but it should only take about 8 minutes to get down. It's really unique and I'm glad we did it, but I do wish there was more to do down there besides take pictures! read more
5 years ago
11 years ago
The cave is awesome. It's a very short walk down some stairs maybe 5 min. It's especially cool when the tide is high and waves are crashing in. Also, the historic coastal trail is right in front which is beautiful! The staff is also very helpful and Joyce. read more
The La Jolla Cave is a nice spot to visit, especially on a hot day. The shop over the cave has been around a long time, as is evidenced from the photos in the shop. If you decide to take the stairs down, heed the signs and watch your step. It can be slippery. We saw a guy completely eat cave dirt going down. Also, if you're tall, beware. My 6'4" hubby had a little trouble at times. There's not a lot to see, but there's a pretty cool peekaboo view of the ocean from the viewing platform at the bottom. read more
6 years ago
10 years ago
The entrance to the cave is through the "Cave Store". It is $5 for adults and $3 for kiddos. You walk down the steps for approximately 5 minutes until you reach the cave. Once you get to the cave there is a small platform that goes into the cave where you can look around. I understand the need to protect the caves, but I was under the impression there would be more room to explore the caves. Nonetheless it was cool to see, but I would not spend $5 again to go. read more
8 years ago
It was a fun experience, the girl in the store was super nice it's scary at first since it's kind of dark but once you go down the stairs it's fine. I would definitely recommend experience the Cave store if you are from San Diego or from out of town. And once you experience the cave you can watch the seals and experience the pretty views in La Jolla. read more
4 years ago
4 years ago
7 years ago
One of the most beautiful San Diego's hidden gems. I have lived in San Diego for hr past 10 years and never knew this place even existed am so glad we discovered it now. It's really beautiful. read more
7 years ago
5 years ago
La Jolla's Gem. I can't believe I didn't discover this spot earlier. Its one of my favorite spots to bring people. Theres a small but long stairway that leads to the bottom of the cave where you'll see the coolest silhouette of face. Its a perfect date stop or somewhere to clear your mind (if a lot of people aren't there). Check it out if you're in the area. read more
9 years ago
My husband and I have lived in San Diego for many years, he- born and raised and I moved here as a little girl and this little gem has been on our list to check out for quite some time. The cave is quite hidden since it's located inside the cave store. We took our 3 children: 12, 3 and 6 months. The prices weren't bad since you're paying for something you don't see everyday. $5 adults and $3 for children 3+ years. It's a short distance down 145 steps. It's quite steep but there are metal railings to hold on to and especially when you get down towards the bottom it can get pretty slippery. I was able to do it with no issues while wearing my 6 month old daughter. My little 3 year old had no issues either as we just took our time down the steps. Once down it was quite beautiful. You could see the blue water, people snorkeling and kayaking outside the cave. There was even a little sea lion resting on the rock just inside the cave. It was a beautiful sight and well worth the experience. read more
8 years ago
Great concept, too crowded for my taste. The stairs are slippery but they do warn you. Great work out. The cave was a bit dark but definitely a must see if you never been. A better way to see the caves is canoeing if you are a good swimmer. Great for tourist. read more
4 years ago
This is a great experience to pay the 5 dollars and go down into the cave and have a great view of the shores. You can even see stand up paddle boarders or kayakers through the cave. Once you go down there you will spend about 5 minutes maximum and will take a few pics but that it about it read more
17 years ago
Jim, the owner, was working at the register today. He was nice and friendly and happy to explain how the cave came to be. The cave itself is well worth $4, if just for the experience of walking down the tunnel and seeing the light and waves at the end. read more
9 years ago
They have a bunch of cute gifts and beach-themed souvenirs in the shop, but I went in mainly to check out the cave which cost $5 to access. The staircase makes you feel like an adventuring archaeologist going down into an excavation site which was fun, but may be a little challenging for those who are more vertically blessed (as the ceilings are quite low). The cave itself is pretty cool, and the outline of it kinda looks like a reverse silhouette of Lenny Leonard from the Simpsons. :o read more
8 years ago
The noise of the waves reverberates through the stairwell! It's pretty cool!! Definitely a place to check out! Just be careful walking up and down the stairs. read more
Im glad we made the pit stop but I honestly don't know if I would tell others to do this when in La Jolla. It's not expensive but I thought we would see a ton of sea lions once we reached the bottom. We didn't see any...it's kinda cool and reminded me of the movie the Goonies. It was scary going down and quite exhausting climbing back up 145 steps. read more
It was a nice place to check out. My boyfriend and I came for our first time. We didn't know what to expect but it was scary to walk down cause it got slippery towards the end. I was holding onto dear life lol. When we got to the bottom, we admired the cave and ocean. It was a touching moment for us since we have to spend some time apart for a while afterwards. But we absolutely love it. Going up was a different story and feeling. So many steps! I took a few breaks as my boyfriend laughed at me and cheered me on to keep going. That's the only part I did not enjoy lol but totally worth the time to go. read more
More info about Cave Store
1325 Coast Blvd
La Jolla, CA 92037
La Jolla
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(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…
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…
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.
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