Pinpoint Cafe
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A hidden gem that is definitely worth the trek! Parking can be hard to find and so is the cafe lol we had to walk around a bit to find it. Once there the view of the beach is amazing. You can see and hear the waves while enjoying your breakfast. Service was so welcoming and friendly. We just went with a bagel with cream cheese as we went down and walked the beach after. Would definitely stop by again!
OH WOWZA!! Pinpoint Cafe is an absolute hidden gem! The GPS took us on an adventure ride. We finally saw the cafe and quickly realized parking was an issue. Right next to the cafe were two handicapped spots and motorcycles parked. ;) The cafe is small with ample seating on the deck where you can enjoy the ocean view with your treats! The employees were very friendly and helpful. We enjoyed our coffees with a delicious banana nut bread. They can warm your pastries for you! Overall, we had a wonderful morning enjoying coffee with a spectacular view!! We liked the idea that you can have your coffee in a to go cup, use their cup, or bring your own cup. We will bring our own cup next time. The downside to this was that we received an $85 parking ticket as we were leaving. We didn't park anywhere near the buildings with clearly marked parking spots. We parked on the right side off street non marked spots. Apparently, the entire area is a no parking spot unless you have a parking pass. OUCH!
Are you kidding? Great drinks, Brazilian cheese bread in waffle form, ocean views, what could be better. Staff is super nice and minute matcha cloud was so yummy.
WHAT A GEM! I am so thrilled to have found this place. It's nestled in some trees off a main road, very easily missed but this is not a spot you want to overlook. It's a small shack with a patio overlooking the ocean. The views are amazing and if feels like your in a forest. I got the cold brew with banana cold foam and absolutely loved it! It was a very strong tasty cold brew which is my favorite. This is going to be my go to place when I want to read at a coffee shop next!
This was a cool spot! Definitely difficult to get to if you don't have a UCSD parking permit decal. I had my sister drop me off since there was nowhere for us to park. I've heard that street parking is okay, but we didn't want to risk it. The G.O.A.T. Toast and Iced Vanilla Latte were pretty good, but it's definitely on the pricier side for what it is. The view is pretty amazing though!
Parking as a non-student was definitely a little tedious. Street parking seemed to be the only real option, and right in front of the cafe there are only two handicap spots and motorcycle stalls. I ended up dropping my sister off so she could order while I waited. We both got The G.O.A.T Toast, and I had a caramel iced latte while my sister got the vanilla iced latte. Everything was really good! The lattes were flavorful without being overly sweet, and the toast was definitely the highlight. It took about 20 minutes for our food to come out, but we went around noon and the cafe was definitely a happening spot, so the wait was understandable. It was busy, but still had a good atmosphere. It is on the pricier side. I believe our total was around $40 for two people, but honestly, I think it was justified because everything was delicious. I'd definitely come back!
Perfect. Craft coffee and other drinks. Cliffside venue with bird La Jolla beach. Walking distance to research facilities and the Aquarium. Quick walk to beach. Friendly staff.
I came here for the view, but it does get busy, so you might not get a good view of the ocean, depending on where you're sitting. I got an avocado crunch toast, which came with fresh smashed avocado, heirloom tomatoes, microgreens, and a chili crunch drizzle on top of sourdough. It was yummy! My friend ordered a coffee and it had pretty latte art.
Great views, nice secluded area. Prompt service. Decent amount of seating. Latte was delicious as well!
Perfect spot to grab a coffee with a great view. Service was very friendly. You order at the counter, pickup your drink and take a seat with a view. FYI. Place is small and a little hard to find at first, seating is limited and everything is outdoors. There isn't a dedicated parking lot but the walk isn't too bad and there is a beautiful view the whole time so who cares.
4/18/26 we literally came here for the ocean view and to see what the hype is about on IG. Basically it's the view. We ordered americano and a latte as we already ate breakfast earlier. Nice to see surfers in the ocean. Service took pretty long, then again..they are busy. No complaints here tho. We enjoyed our coffee and view. Happy sipping!
Explored around the area before stumbling on this cafe. It was busy, with many people staying to enjoy the killer view of the coast. We got two medium iced vanilla oat lattes that were solid, however the cost was pretty steep at $8 per drink. Would be willing to splurge for the view every now and then, though parking can be confusing since the cafe is located in the UCSD campus area.
Had a lil snack here after yoga- I got the GOAT (Goat Cheese Avocado Toast) and a latte. They were tasty and filling! The avocado was also a really good texture. However, the price was pretty steep for what it was in my opinion. The food also took a while to come out, but it did seem pretty understaffed. The location is really nice though (outdoor seating only!), and it has a really good view of the beach.
14 days ago
This was absolutely worth the wait!! I've tried a few times to come here but the parking is quite tough. So be prepared to park and walk. But when you get here the views are worth it! It's so relaxing to just sit and look down the beach while enjoying coffee. They are super friendly here. And the food was delicious! I had their Mexican Mocha with the "GOAT". Highly recommend!! Love how they made it into a heart. It was the perfect sweet with salty bacon combo, and who doesn't like goat cheese! It is a true hidden gem that if you are near UCSD, come check it out. Plus they give 20% discount to students at UCSD. Thank you! read more
I absolutely love this place. The staff is super friendly and welcoming and it seems like they actually give a damn. You can hear the waves from the ocean over the sound of the espresso machine as though you were feet from the beach. Nestled between a Scripps/UCSD Oceanography campus, it's a small/quaint private getaway. Since the word is getting out it's been quite busy and it totally killed my zen to see people doing zoom conferences and speaking loudly at their screens throughout. Really? Oh well, to each their own. The lavender latte was delicious and hit the spot. The sourdough they used for the toast was heavenly...filled with air holes and homemade sourdough flavor. Loved the heart shaped toast. They take care with their presentation. Only drawback is lack of parking. Unless there is some secret spot I haven't discovered yet, be prepared for a bit of a hike. I've been here on the weekend as well and the lines can get long. read more
2 months ago
For the views alone, this is a tippy top tier hidden gem in La Jolla. Located on the UCSD Scripps campus, this cafe boasts beautiful views of Scripps pier and La Jolla shores. It's an open air setting featuring an open patio with a good amount of seating- lots of students and WFH folks. It was so gorgeous. A tiny place tucked away enough that could make being productive feel like paradise. The coffee on the other hand, was just alright. We got a classic Iced Vanilla Latte and it was fine. It was pretty sweet, so take with that what you will. Some notes: Parking is difficult to find here. Try residential or the surrounding hills. You get 20% off if you're a UCSD student or staff. read more
A hidden gem that is definitely worth the trek! Parking can be hard to find and so is the cafe lol we had to walk around a bit to find it. Once there the view of the beach is amazing. You can see and hear the waves while enjoying your breakfast. Service was so welcoming and friendly. We just went with a bagel with cream cheese as we went down and walked the beach after. Would definitely stop by again! read more
OH WOWZA!! Pinpoint Cafe is an absolute hidden gem! The GPS took us on an adventure ride. We finally saw the cafe and quickly realized parking was an issue. Right next to the cafe were two handicapped spots and motorcycles parked. ;) The cafe is small with ample seating on the deck where you can enjoy the ocean view with your treats! The employees were very friendly and helpful. We enjoyed our coffees with a delicious banana nut bread. They can warm your pastries for you! Overall, we had a wonderful morning enjoying coffee with a spectacular view!! We liked the idea that you can have your coffee in a to go cup, use their cup, or bring your own cup. We will bring our own cup next time. The downside to this was that we received an $85 parking ticket as we were leaving. We didn't park anywhere near the buildings with clearly marked parking spots. We parked on the right side off street non marked spots. Apparently, the entire area is a no parking spot unless you have a parking pass. OUCH! read more
WHAT A GEM! I am so thrilled to have found this place. It's nestled in some trees off a main road, very easily missed but this is not a spot you want to overlook. It's a small shack with a patio overlooking the ocean. The views are amazing and if feels like your in a forest. I got the cold brew with banana cold foam and absolutely loved it! It was a very strong tasty cold brew which is my favorite. This is going to be my go to place when I want to read at a coffee shop next! read more
This was a cool spot! Definitely difficult to get to if you don't have a UCSD parking permit decal. I had my sister drop me off since there was nowhere for us to park. I've heard that street parking is okay, but we didn't want to risk it. The G.O.A.T. Toast and Iced Vanilla Latte were pretty good, but it's definitely on the pricier side for what it is. The view is pretty amazing though! read more
3 months ago
2 months ago
Parking as a non-student was definitely a little tedious. Street parking seemed to be the only real option, and right in front of the cafe there are only two handicap spots and motorcycle stalls. I ended up dropping my sister off so she could order while I waited. We both got The G.O.A.T Toast, and I had a caramel iced latte while my sister got the vanilla iced latte. Everything was really good! The lattes were flavorful without being overly sweet, and the toast was definitely the highlight. It took about 20 minutes for our food to come out, but we went around noon and the cafe was definitely a happening spot, so the wait was understandable. It was busy, but still had a good atmosphere. It is on the pricier side. I believe our total was around $40 for two people, but honestly, I think it was justified because everything was delicious. I'd definitely come back! read more
I came here for the view, but it does get busy, so you might not get a good view of the ocean, depending on where you're sitting. I got an avocado crunch toast, which came with fresh smashed avocado, heirloom tomatoes, microgreens, and a chili crunch drizzle on top of sourdough. It was yummy! My friend ordered a coffee and it had pretty latte art. read more
Perfect spot to grab a coffee with a great view. Service was very friendly. You order at the counter, pickup your drink and take a seat with a view. FYI. Place is small and a little hard to find at first, seating is limited and everything is outdoors. There isn't a dedicated parking lot but the walk isn't too bad and there is a beautiful view the whole time so who cares. read more
4/18/26 we literally came here for the ocean view and to see what the hype is about on IG. Basically it's the view. We ordered americano and a latte as we already ate breakfast earlier. Nice to see surfers in the ocean. Service took pretty long, then again..they are busy. No complaints here tho. We enjoyed our coffee and view. Happy sipping! read more
Explored around the area before stumbling on this cafe. It was busy, with many people staying to enjoy the killer view of the coast. We got two medium iced vanilla oat lattes that were solid, however the cost was pretty steep at $8 per drink. Would be willing to splurge for the view every now and then, though parking can be confusing since the cafe is located in the UCSD campus area. read more
6 months ago
Had a lil snack here after yoga- I got the GOAT (Goat Cheese Avocado Toast) and a latte. They were tasty and filling! The avocado was also a really good texture. However, the price was pretty steep for what it was in my opinion. The food also took a while to come out, but it did seem pretty understaffed. The location is really nice though (outdoor seating only!), and it has a really good view of the beach. read more
7 months ago
Stopped by here with a friend and had a lovely time. It's a nice little hidden outdoor spot with great views. It was pretty busy so it was nice to be able to get a spot. I ordered a smoked salmon toast and a strawberry smoothie, a little bit on the pricier side, but it's typical for the area. read more
Finally made my way to Pinpoint Cafe. I arrived a little after 8am on a Wednesday and there were just a few customers. By the time I left around 9am, almost all tables were taken. Pros: -views of the ocean -it's outdoor seating on two levels, so it's great if the weather is nice -if you go to UCSD, they give a small discount if you show your ID. Cons: -parking can be difficult. Close parking lots are permit specific. -no restrooms are available for customers. read more
24 days ago
Pinpoint Cafe has delicious drinks. No bathrooms. Parking is a challenge unless you go to school there. We parked on the busy road up top and walked down. I wish they would fill up the cup of the lattes. The toast was cute as heck though. And you can't beat the view. read more
I stopped by Pinpoint Café today for coffee and breakfast and really liked it. They had a holiday special gingerbread latte so of course I had to try it and it was really good. I ordered the GOAT which is their avocado toast with goat cheese and it was delicious. The views are great here and the staff were really friendly. The only downside is the parking since it can be a little tough, but overall I would definitely come back. read more
9 months ago
Such a nice lowkey place with great options for food and drinks! The service is friendly and fast and the drinks and food are delicious!! I recently came and got to try their gingerbread latte which was super delicious!! Their lox sandwich is so yum as well! Definitely a place to try for cafes in San Diego!! read more
28 days ago
8 months ago
Fantastic view & awesome avocado toast.! The lattes were very good as well. The tide was low so we enjoyed a long walk north of the pier- tide-pooling along the way. read more
4 months ago
Stunning view of la jolla, service was fast, the avocado toast is amazing! Latte was delicious and well priced. Lots of seating and great to work from home read more
Located in Scripps Institute of Oceanography, the views from here are incredible if the marine layer cooperates. The staff were all very friendly when I visited. I ordered a cappuccino and it was pretty solid. The weather was beautiful the day I went and I enjoyed my coffee on the patio while connecting with the Scripps alumni director. I don't live in the area, but would definitely come back when I'm in La Jolla. read more
The view was a 10! This little cafe that is all outdoor, is a serene location that is situated in La Jolla on San Diegos university campus:) it's beautiful. Parking is an issue!! You may find yourself parking as long as a half mile away, there is only street parking available around the corner from the cafe, which dues add to its charm, not a lot of traffic and it feels like a cozy beach cottage tucked away in the trees and hills of La Jolla all while having an amazing ocean view. The food was good! I ordered the Avo crunch toast, gluten free. The bread was super good! And a chai. They have almond or oat milk alternatives, and that's always a little difficult for me, because I prefer coconut milk alternative, but over all great eating experience! I will be back! read more
This cafe is a hidden gem. Parking is limited near the location but a short walk to this location is worth it! The day we visited, staff opened the cafe a bit late but we didn't mind waiting given the view we had. They have a good amount of seating area. The coffee, food, and ambiance were perfect. It's a great place to stop by for breakfast if you want to enjoy the ocean view. read more
1 year ago
This spot is my favorite place to spend my quiet time. Parking is a little spotty but if you don't mind walking a little bit, I recommend parking on La Jolla Shores Drive and take a short walk down the hill. It's a great place to work and read quietly and the view is unbelievable. The atmosphere is just unlike any other coffee shop. I've ordered a vanilla latte and they have both been okay - nothing to write home about. I've tried their croissant and it was unfortunately stale :( It was very hard to chew after it was warmed up which tells me that it was an old croissant. I'm still going to come here for the vibes, but manage your expectations when it comes to the food. Most importantly, there are no restrooms here! Make sure to use the loo before you head over. read more
While in San Diego after just having had lunch , I was looking for a coffee spot and remembered we were near this one. So we decided to come and try it. It is a little hard to find if you don't know this area. We were a bit lost at first but luckily we found it and boy was I glad that we did. The amazing view that you have while enjoying a nice cup of coffee is beautiful. We walked up to the ordering counter and were pleasantly helped by the barista and she explained what they serve and what are their popular items. We decided to order their gingerbread maple latte. They were so good and it came accompanied with a small gingerbread cookie. This is a nice little hidden gem . We will definitely be back if ever in the area. read more
Cool little hidden spot, with great views. The food is pretty good for a little coffee spot. The my wife got the smoked salmon, I got the one that looks like a salad :) I don't remember the name, both were pretty decent nothing crazy. For the drink we got the iced matcha which was good. The best thing here is the view and the vibe. The parking here is pretty tough and the only thing I dislike. read more
Beautiful spot tucked into UCSD's campus at Scripps Institute for Oceanography. I wanted to get a light brunch and iced tea after visiting the nearby Birch Aquarium (up the hill a bit) and before hitting the beach (just down the stairs from here). Pinpoint Cafe is an all-outdoor spot with a deck that has a million dollar view of Scripps Beach. I ordered the avocado and tomato toast with a green tea at the small counter and found a table looking right at the ocean. My food was ready in a few minutes but I had to wait for them to steep my tea which took a while. I enjoyed my meal in the shade with a breeze which was a relief from the heat wave hitting San Diego. My brunch came to about $15 before tip which isn't bad for SoCA. Note, there's no bathroom on site so go at the aquarium if visiting first or down at the beach. After I lingered a bit watching surfers go down the road to the beach, I followed and had a wonderful long walk along the shore. read more
4 months ago
LOVE THIS PLACE!! I was so extra and asked them to change my drink and Claudia was happy to and so sweet!! read more
1 year ago
Super cute and what a view! It's important to note that there is no inside area. It is so special. Feels like you are sitting in a piney treehouse over looking the ocean read more
2 years ago
Amazing seating deck with a view of the beach. I got the Iced Mocha & Hot Mocha. The hot one was definitely more rich than the iced one, but both were good. If you don't have a UCSD parking permit you have to look for street parking nearby, which can be a hastle. Parking is mostly on a busy road without a crosswalk at the intersection you have to walk through. There's free Wi-Fi through UCSD, but no public restrooms. The closest one is on the beach, so you have to walk up and down a hill to get there. Also note that if you stay here long enough, ants might start crawling on your laptop since it's outdoorss haha! read more
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More info about Pinpoint Cafe
8755 Biological Grade
San Diego, CA 92037
La Jolla Shores, La Jolla
Directions
(858) 952-2550
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Visit Website
http://www.pinpoint-cafe.com
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Ask the Community - Pinpoint Cafe
Are there outlets to plug into?
None that's obvious. It's small beach cafe not a true coffeehouse.
I noticed you are located on the UCSD campus. Do you have to pay for a daily or hourly parking permit? Thank you!
Hi there! There’s street parking within walking distance at La Jolla Shores Drive. There is also a private parking lot at Naga Way. Everything else around the cafe is just for students and staff.
Is Pinpoint Cafe dog friendly?
Yes, I took my two dogs here and the cashier gave them treats and there was a water bowl out :)
Is there WiFi available?
Yes, however since this location is part of UCSD, at this time we are closed due to COVID.
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