La Jolla, California, is one of the most beautiful and unique beach towns in the entire country. With its breathtaking ocean views, high-end shops, art galleries, delicious restaurants, and charming local spots, it’s no wonder people from all over the world come to visit. But here’s the thing: you really need a car to enjoy everything La Jolla has to offer.
If you’re staying in San Diego or planning a longer visit to La Jolla, the best way to explore is by renting a car from LONGTERMCAR.com. With monthly rentals starting at just $625 — all taxes and fees included — you can enjoy total freedom to drive around and see it all, without worrying about expensive rideshares or dealing with the hassle of owning a car.
In this guide, we’ll show you why having a car in La Jolla makes all the difference, and we’ll highlight the must-see places and amazing things to do — all made easier with your rental from LONGTERMCAR.
La Jolla is not like a big city with lots of buses or subways. It’s spread out, with beautiful beaches, coastal cliffs, shopping areas, and restaurants located in different parts of town. While it’s walkable in some areas, the best way to get from one awesome spot to another is by car.
When you rent a car from LONGTERMCAR, you can:
Visit places on your own schedule
Avoid waiting for expensive rideshare rides
Explore nearby towns and beaches
Pack beach gear, picnic baskets, or shopping bags easily
Drive up and down the scenic coastline at your own pace
One of the most famous spots in La Jolla is La Jolla Cove. This small beach is perfect for watching sea lions, snorkeling, and taking photos of the clear blue water. The cliffs and walking paths give you amazing views of the ocean. Parking nearby is much easier when you have your own rental car — just load up, find a spot, and enjoy the day.
Right next to the Cove is Ellen Browning Scripps Park, one of the most beautiful parks in San Diego. It’s a great place to have a picnic, throw a frisbee, or just sit and watch the waves. Again, with your rental car, getting there with snacks, beach chairs, or your camera is a breeze.
Another unique spot you’ll want to drive to is the Children’s Pool, where you can see dozens of sea lions sunbathing on the rocks. The parking lot nearby fills up fast, so arriving early in your own car gives you a big advantage. You’ll be just steps away from one of the coolest wildlife views in California.
Just up the hill from the water is La Jolla Village, a charming area full of boutiques, surf shops, art galleries, and cafes. You can easily spend a few hours here shopping, eating, and people-watching. Park your LONGTERMCAR rental nearby, walk around, and come back to drop off your bags whenever you need to.
On Sundays, the La Jolla Open Aire Market (near La Jolla Elementary) is packed with fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, and local art. Having your own rental makes it easy to take home everything you buy — and enjoy a full morning without rushing or waiting for a ride.
La Jolla is also home to some of the best restaurants in Southern California. Whether you’re looking for a fancy ocean-view dinner or a casual bite to eat, there are tons of choices. And when you have your own car, you can drive to wherever your cravings take you. Here are a few favorites:
George’s at the Cove – Upscale dining with stunning sunset views.
The Cottage – A La Jolla breakfast and brunch favorite with cozy outdoor seating.
Puesto – Amazing tacos and margaritas in a vibrant, modern space.
Duke’s La Jolla – Hawaiian-inspired dishes with ocean views.
Sugar and Scribe – A bakery and café that’s perfect for coffee and sweet treats.
With a LONGTERMCAR rental, you can try a new restaurant every day — without worrying about rideshare fees or long walks from faraway parking spots.
Located up the hill near UC San Diego, the Birch Aquarium is a fun and educational stop. It’s filled with sea creatures, interactive exhibits, and ocean science displays. Driving there is simple, and there’s a parking lot right on site.
One of the best things to do in La Jolla is simply drive along the coast. From Torrey Pines State Reserve to Windansea Beach, the views are unbeatable. Stop along the way to take photos, watch surfers, or explore tide pools. Your LONGTERMCAR rental gives you the freedom to take your time and enjoy the drive.
Whether you’re:
A visitor staying in La Jolla for a month or two
A student at UC San Diego or nearby colleges
A remote worker needing flexible transportation
A local whose car is in the shop or looking to avoid buying
LONGTERMCAR makes it easy, affordable, and smart to rent a car monthly. There’s no credit check, no deposit games, and no hidden fees. Just one flat monthly price and unlimited local miles — so you can explore all of La Jolla and beyond.
✅ Monthly rentals from just $625
✅ All taxes and fees included
✅ Unlimited local miles
✅ No credit check
✅ Easy online booking
✅ Cars for personal use only (not for Uber or Lyft)
✅ Trusted San Diego business for over 20 years
✅ Great for tourists, students, and anyone needing a car
La Jolla is full of hidden gems, world-class restaurants, beautiful beaches, and scenic drives — but you won’t get to see them all without a car. Rideshare apps are expensive, public transport is limited, and owning a car comes with headaches. That’s why renting a car from LONGTERMCAR.com is the best choice for locals and visitors alike.
Take control of your trip. Go where you want, when you want. And enjoy every part of La Jolla without limits.
Visit LONGTERMCAR.com today and reserve your monthly rental. La Jolla’s beauty is waiting — and with your own car, you’ll never miss a moment.