Snorkeling Adventure in La Jolla

Had an amazing experience with Jayne. She was very informative and made sure I had a great time. She also helped me release a muscle cramp - once again, thank you for that! :) The tour took place in late September and the visibility was great. I had a 7 mm wetsuit on which was perfect for approx. 67 F water temperature - I didn’t feel any cold and felt like I could stay in the water for hours. We saw a cute horn shark, lots of Garibaldis, a sheephead, and lots of other fish. We also visited a few caves, but the main highlight of the tour for me were the sea lions. It was amazing to see them swim around. The adults tend to keep their distance, but be prepared that a curious and playful pup might come really close to check you out :) Overall, I had a great time and will definitely be back! Thank you, Jayne!

Maddie was a wonderful guide—patient, encouraging, and supportive throughout. What’s most important for future guests to know is that this is not a calm Cove snorkel but an open-ocean swim beyond the Cove to reach the caves. Depending on water conditions, this may not feel strenuous for some people, but in our case it felt more like a mini triathlon—fighting currents, cold to mild water temperatures, and with no planned rest breaks—especially as the afternoon breeze made the water choppier and less clear. Because of this, strong swimming ability is recommended, and a wetsuit or flotation support can add comfort and safety. Setting clearer expectations from the start would help guests prepare properly and decide if this excursion is the right fit for them.

This snorkel tour is outside of La Jolla Cove and explores the caves just beyond. Floatation devices are NOT included. I would not recommend this if you do not feel confident swimming in open ocean. I would rate this activity as enjoyable for STRONG, CONFIDENT Swimmers only. If you are not used to exerting yourself physical and are anxious about being in the ocean then I don't think this is an activity for you.

FYI's for tourists - I only gave it 4 stars because you can easily bring your own snorkel and mask and just see the fish on your own, without having to swim so far out and back to the caves. You just go off the little beach in the cove where the sea lions hang out. I'm glad we brought our own masks and snorkels and had some practice with them, the day before this tour. For beginners, it can be a little weird getting used to only breathing through your mouth. Jane, our tour guide, did point out a spiny lobster that I would have overlooked otherwise. She told us a lot about the area and the marine wildlife. We didn't get to actually go in the caves this time. Lots of other people there (kayaks) and the water was getting pretty choppy because the tide was coming in. It was a fun adventure and cool to see all the underwater life in the area. But the tour was a bit stressful for two middle aged adults like us. Jane checked up on us, then came out and swam with us when she saw we were lagging behind. She was encouraging, knowledgeable and friendly. Just because of the swim distance and the increasing swells, we probably will need to get in better shape if we go again.

The tour was fantastic. Our guide, Jane, was knowledgeable and pleasant. We never would have done the cave without her. We felt safe in the water with her too. We had a great time and would not hesitate to book a tour with them again. If I can give one piece of advice to people taking the tour, Bring $5. We wanted to tip her at the end but of course left our money in the car for safety.