A one-of-a-kind La Jolla landmark

Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave gives visitors a rare chance to explore a real sea cave by land. The journey begins inside the Cave Store, where a historic tunnel leads through the sandstone cliffs and down to the cave itself.

It is a simple visit, but one that stays memorable because of its setting, its history, and the sense of discovery that comes with stepping into a place many people have only seen from the outside.

Made for a short but memorable stop

The self-guided tour takes about 15 to 20 minutes and includes the original 145 stairs down and back up. That makes it easy to fit into a broader La Jolla outing while still feeling like a true experience rather than a quick photo stop.

Whether you are traveling with family, exploring local history, or looking for something different to do by the coast, Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave offers a distinctive look at one of San Diego’s best-known seaside landmarks.

Sunny Jim's Sea Cave team

About Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave

A historic tunnel to the sea

Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave is one of La Jolla’s most distinctive and historic attractions, offering visitors a rare chance to step inside a real sea cave by land. Located inside the Cave Store at 1325 Coast Blvd, the experience begins with a century-old bootlegger’s tunnel carved through the sandstone cliffs and continues down to the cave itself.

  • A memorable local landmark. Since 1905, visitors have come here to discover a unique part of San Diego’s coastal history.
  • A short self-guided tour. The full visit takes about 15 to 20 minutes and includes the original 145 stairs down and back up.
  • More than a cave visit. The Cave Store also offers snorkel rentals and beach-themed gifts and essentials for your day by the coast.
Sunny Jim's Sea Cave service photo

Plan Ahead

Ready to experience a La Jolla landmark?

Check current hours, admission details, and visit information before you head to the Cave Store at Coast Blvd. Stop in for the cave tour, a look at the history, or a memorable coastal outing.