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

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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

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It ifs very important to remember that there is absolutely no parking available at all if you turn you car down the little roadway that leads off of La Jolla Shores Drive. I tried it an got caught (with another car) in a myriad of twists and turns through the Scripps Institute of Oceanography. In addition, the Pinpoint Café Restauant is actually located across the road from the water--it is not direct oceanfront at all. I think you need to get there really really---like 8:00 am. There ss a long, long line snaking out the door when i arrived on a weekend. read more

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. read more

Pinpoint Cafe - Street view of cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Great views, nice secluded area. Prompt service. Decent amount of seating. Latte was delicious as well! read more

Pinpoint Cafe - Banana latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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

Pinpoint Cafe - The view at Pinpoint cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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

Pinpoint Cafe - gingerbread latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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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

Pinpoint Cafe - Avocado crunch toast and hot coffee - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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

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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

Pinpoint Cafe - the goat and vanilla latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Employees are kind and there is a lot of seating available. Parking is limited & you may have to walk up 2 flights of stairs to access this location! But there's a nice view of the ocean and the food is good :-) read more

Pinpoint Cafe - Açaí bowl - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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

Pinpoint Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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

Pinpoint Cafe - Outdoor Seating - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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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

Pinpoint Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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

Pinpoint Cafe - Large vanilla latte - 3 shots, not filled all the way - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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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

Pinpoint Cafe - Avocado Toast with hard boiled egg... - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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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

Pinpoint Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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

Pinpoint Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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LOVE THIS PLACE!! I was so extra and asked them to change my drink and Claudia was happy to and so sweet!! read more

Pinpoint Cafe - Chai Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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

Pinpoint Cafe - Cappuccino - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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

Pinpoint Cafe - Avocado crunch toast - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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

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It was my first time here and I fell in love with this place. Guys, thank you for the atmosphere!

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

Pinpoint Cafe - Relaxing view - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

I was afraid it wouldn't live up to the hype but the ocean view was lovely. The menu is limited to brunch type bagels, burritos and cold sandwiches. Not a lot for those with special dietary needs. My son enjoyed his smoked salmon bagel. The coffee and hot chocolate were good. If I lived close by, I would visit often. 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

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The view!! What a perfect place to get some work done, study, meet with friends, etc. The menu is simple but delicious. Plenty of seating Wednesday at 11am and no line to order. Other reviews mention the salmon toast was too salty but mine was perfect. If you're concerned about the salt, ask for light seasoning. I could see how a heavy hand of everything bagel seasoning along with the capers could make this a little too salty. My toast and latte was ready quickly. If you're in the area I'd definitely recommend. read more

The parking wasn't great, but if you're alone and have time to kill, this is a great place to chill and enjoy the ocean breeze. The coffee and food menu was great for a quick snack but not necessarily a full meal. This place is popular with the locals and ucsd peeps that you may decide to share a table with another party. I would definitely go again and want to try their açaí bowl. The service was quick enough and you just wait for the ringer read more

Had the best latte of my whole life this morning at Pinpoint! I got a honey cinnamon latte with banana cold foam, and I cannot wait to go back. We also got the butter croissant, 10/10! Service was incredible as well, & the view!!! 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

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Amazing views, great service, and quality coffee! We got the salmon toast with avocado and the avocado toast with boiled eggs as suggested by the staff. Went on a holiday so restrooms weren't available but great otherwise! read more

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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

Pinpoint Cafe - Avo toast (both styles) and an Americano - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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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

Pinpoint Cafe - View from my table at Pinpoint Cafe. Gorgeous! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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This coffee place is nestled in a quaint neighborhood in La Jolla. Great coffee and beautiful scenery. read more

Pinpoint Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

QUICK TAKE// Hidden gem of a coffee spot with very scenic ocean views. FOOD// I really appreciated how they had KETO COFFEE OPTIONS. While I didn't try it this time, I am looking forward to coming back and trying some of their toasts! They have both sweet and savory combinations. SERVICE// Standard nice baristas - bonus points that they give discounts to UCSD students & staff. VIBES// Wow such amazing views. It feels like the coffee shop was built into a somewhat treehouse shop. The place is a little hidden so it does feel like a sweet surprise getting here and enjoying your coffee. read more

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

Pinpoint Cafe - Deck/Seating View - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

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The views and outdoor seating of this place is unmatched. We were greeted by a helpful person who took our orders at the front. Then we got a table with a view of the pier. The avocado toast was delicious - sourdough bread toasted perfectly with cream cheese, avocado, and everything seasoning. Delish! read more

Pinpoint Cafe - Avocado toast - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

This place is a 10/10 AMAZING view!! That's the best part of it. It's a little hidden in La Jolla with plenty of seating. Their iced coffee and food is delicious! To die for! I ordered the salon toast and uff it was fantastic! We were able to get one of the best tables with a beautiful view to the ocean! Prices are ok! Very reasonable. Plenty of parking! Customer service is phenomenal they treat you so good! read more

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Always wanted to try this place and it did not disappoint. Drinks were enjoyable. They had your standard coffee drinks and then their specialty drinks as well. Food was quite delicious as we both enjoyed eating and sipping on our coffees sitting outdoors to a beautiful ocean view. Service was kind. They also gave my pup a little treat too! The only draw back was parking. Thankfully we were able to find a spot but i didn't see much parking around the area. read more

Pinpoint Cafe - Coffee & Tea Near Me - San Diego, California

Came here on a Tuesday morning around 11am and there was no parking :0( this cafe is located in the SIO (Scripps Institute of Oceanography) buildings so parking is definitely rough if you're planning on staying here to enjoy the view. Luckily I was just ordering to-go. I ordered for 3: an iced Caramel Matcha Latte, iced Pumpkin Bread Latte, and hot Cookie Butter Latte for drinks, and for food we got the GOAT (maple bacon, goat cheese avocado toast), Smoked Salmon (smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers and everything bagel seasoning toast), Bacon Breakfast Burrito, and an Acai Bowl with homemade granola. Total came out to be around $100 which is kind of expensive for what you get. The wait wasn't too long, we got to enjoy the view and fresh air, and there were plenty of tables and seats. The Caramel Matcha Latte was interesting, the caramel definitely added more sweetness than what I'm used to. The Pumpkin Bread Latte was decent too, I don't usually like espresso lattes but the pumpkin flavored foam added a nice touch. I feel like the drink tasted better after a couple hours when the ice melted since the pumpkin flavor was more prominent. The Cookie Butter Latte was forgettable. It was too oily and the cookie butter is literally just glopped on the bottom. Food wise, I enjoyed the maple taste of the bacon on the GOAT (avocado toast) but my boyfriend enjoyed the Smoked Salmon toast better. It wasn't anything spectacular though, could literally make it at home with all ingredients from Costco. The Bacon Breakfast Burrito was also meh, lackluster. All in all, I feel like people visit for the views and to have slow mornings here. But if you're looking for amazing food and drinks, there are better cafes out there that execute better. Honestly I probably wouldn't go out of my way again to visit this cafe read more

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