La Jolla’s kayak and canoe tours deliver big rewards for travelers wanting to explore Southern California’s most dramatic coastline. The best tours focus on the area’s famous sea caves, marine life, and striking cliff formations. Among the standouts, we love the 90-minute Original Sea Cave Tour for its expert guides and consistent wildlife sightings. The 2-hour Sunset Tour offers fantastic photo opportunities and a more relaxed pace, perfect for families. For couples or small groups, the private Sea Caves Tour For Two provides intimate exploration without the crowds. Self-guided kayak rentals work well for experienced paddlers who prefer independence. Let’s look at our favorite La Jolla kayak tours in detail.
Key Points
- The Original La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour offers a 90-minute exploration of the La Jolla Ecological Reserve with sightings of otters, seals, and sea lions.
- The La Jolla: Sunset Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves provides a two-hour excursion during the golden hour with highlights like the famous sea caves and iconic Arch Cave.
- The La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour For Two has a 90% recommendation rate and offers opportunities to see sea lions, dolphins, and orcas.
- The La Jolla: 2-Hour Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves costs $79 per group of up to 2 participants and features exploring sea cliffs, caves, and potential wildlife sightings.
- Kayak Rental for Two People in La Jolla starts from $59 and is wheelchair accessible, suitable for swimmers aged 5 and up, but restricted from the nearby sea caves.
Original La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour for Two
Although no kayaking experience is required, adventurers will delight in the Original La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour for Two.
This 90-minute tour explores the La Jolla Ecological Reserves’ sea caves, including the stunning Emerald Cave. Paddle alongside otters, harbor seals, and sea lions as you navigate the giant kelp forest.
The tour includes a professional guide, a two-person kayak, and all necessary equipment. Wetsuits and lockers are available for an additional fee.
Arrive 30 minutes early for check-in at the 2261 Avenida De La Playa location.
With a 4.5-star rating from 731 reviews, this tour is a must-do activity for visitors to La Jolla.
Read our full review: Original La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour for Two Review
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You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in La Jolla.
La Jolla: Sunset Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves
Visitors can now experience the stunning La Jolla coastline during the golden hour with the La Jolla: Sunset Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves. This two-hour excursion takes adventurers through the famous sea caves, providing breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs and vibrant marine life.
Guests will paddle past the iconic Arch Cave and explore hidden coves, all while learning about the area’s rich history and ecology from experienced guides.
The tour culminates with a serene sunset over the Pacific, creating a truly memorable experience.
With limited group sizes, this tour offers an intimate and personalized adventure for both beginner and experienced kayakers alike.
Read our full review: La Jolla: Sunset Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves Review
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La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour For Two (Tandem Kayak)
Participants can explore the captivating La Jolla sea caves during the La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour for Two. This tour offers a unique adventure, with a 90% traveler recommendation rate based on 1,028 reviews.
Paddling through kelp beds, participants may have the chance to spot diverse marine life, including sea lions, dolphins, and orcas. The tour caters to both novices and experts, providing necessary equipment and safety instructions.
Participants should arrive an hour early, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and has age and weight restrictions. While most reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, some mention concerns about gear cleanliness and group monitoring.
Read our full review: La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour For Two (Tandem Kayak) Review
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La Jolla: 2-Hour Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves
The 2-Hour Kayak Tour of the La Jolla Caves takes adventurers on a captivating journey through the Ecological Reserve.
For $79 per group of up to 2 participants, paddlers can explore sea cliffs and caves, including the famous Clam’s Cave.
Led by expert guides, the tour promises sightings of diverse marine life like sea lions, dolphins, and even leopard sharks.
With a safety briefing, high-quality equipment, and scenic views, the experience caters to swimmers aged 5 and up.
Customers praise the knowledgeable guides and the tour’s excellent value.
To ensure availability, it’s best to book early, especially during the optimal late spring season.
Read our full review: La Jolla: 2-Hour Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves Review
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Kayak Rental for Two People in La Jolla
For those seeking a more independent kayaking experience in La Jolla, Everyday California offers a convenient kayak rental option for groups of up to two people.
Priced from $59, the activity includes a life vest, kayak, and paddle. While wetsuits and lockers can be rented for an additional fee, the rental itself is wheelchair accessible and located near public transportation.
With a 4.5-star rating from 57 reviews, this activity is suitable for swimmers aged 5 and up. However, participants should note that kayaking isn’t permitted in the nearby sea caves.
Read our full review: Kayak Rental for Two People in La Jolla Review
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La Jolla: Sea Cave Kayaking Tour With Guide
Adventurers seeking a more guided kayaking experience can join Everyday California’s Sea Cave Kayaking Tour in La Jolla.
This 2-hour tour takes guests through the area’s famous sea caves, led by knowledgeable guides. Paddlers will explore hidden coves and spot local wildlife like sea lions, seals, and birds.
The tour includes all necessary equipment like kayaks, paddles, and life jackets. Guests must be able to paddle for up to 2 hours and get in and out of the kayak with minimal assistance.
The tour’s small group size ensures an intimate and personalized experience. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced kayaker, this guided sea cave tour offers an unforgettable way to discover La Jolla’s stunning coastal landscapes.
Read our full review: La Jolla: Sea Cave Kayaking Tour With Guide Review
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Sum Up
La Jolla offers various kayak and canoe tours that allow visitors to explore the area’s stunning sea caves. Whether you’re looking for a guided tour or want to rent a kayak, there are plenty of options to suit your needs. With a range of tour lengths and experiences available, you’re sure to find the perfect way to discover the natural beauty of this coastal destination.
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