Guide to Ellen Browning Scripps Park: A La Jolla Coastal Gem
- San Diego Beach Review
- Jul 14
- 4 min read
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If you’ve ever walked along the iconic cliffs of La Jolla, chances are you’ve been charmed by Ellen Browning Scripps Park — a lush, green park area overlooking the Pacific Ocean and one of the most picturesque spots in all of San Diego. Both locals and visitors know it as the perfect place for a picnic, sunset watching, or simply soaking in the ocean air while spotting seals and sea lions down below.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking for a fresh reason to stop by, here’s your complete insider’s guide to enjoying Ellen Browning Scripps Park in La Jolla.
At a Glance: Ellen Browning Scripps Park
Why Visit Ellen Browning Scripps Park?
Nestled between La Jolla Cove and Shell Beach, Ellen Browning Scripps Park is often called “the most photographed spot in San Diego” — and for good reason. With its sweeping ocean views, iconic rows of Torrey Pine trees, and grassy expanses, it’s a local favorite for weddings, yoga meetups, and family outings.
Here’s what makes it stand out:
Free and open to the public year-round
Unbeatable views of La Jolla Cove, Children’s Pool, Torrey Pines cliffs, and the Pacific
Perfect spot to watch sunsets and marine life
Walking distance to La Jolla Village’s shops, cafes, and hotels
If you want to stay nearby, book a La Jolla hotel with ocean views such as La Jolla Cove Hotel and Suites or La Valencia Hotel, as both are in the heart of La Jolla Village with views of the ocean and a short walk to La Jolla Cove and Ellen Browning Scripps Park.
If you’re coming from out of town, it’s about a 20-minute drive from downtown San Diego. Rent a car here for the most flexibility when exploring the coast.
What to Do at Ellen Browning Scripps Park
Take a Stroll Along the Bluff
Walk the winding sidewalks that hug the cliffs, where you can watch pelicans dive and seals bask on the rocks. The ocean breeze and sound of crashing waves make it a peaceful experience any time of day.
Visit La Jolla Cove
Just steps away, La Jolla Cove is home to a lively colony of sea lions and seals. Bring your camera and keep a respectful distance — it’s one of the most unique wildlife encounters in Southern California. See our full beach review of La Jolla Cove for more information on parking, amenities, activities, and more to know!
Want to explore the Cove even more? Try snorkeling or kayaking. You can easily book a guided kayak or snorkel tour for a fun way to see marine life up close.
Picnic with an Ocean View
Pack a blanket and some takeout from nearby spots like Girard Gourmet or The Cottage and enjoy a laid-back picnic with some of the best views in San Diego.
Catch an Epic Sunset
Sunset at Scripps Park is nothing short of magical. On clear evenings, the sky lights up in shades of orange, pink, and purple, reflecting over the ocean and creating perfect photo ops. See our post on 10 Photography Hotspots Along the San Diego Coast for more epic photo spots, as well as our post on 7 Beautiful Sunset Spots Along the San Diego Coast for other beautiful places to see the sunset.
Snorkel or Swim
If you’re feeling adventurous, bring your snorkel gear and head into the Cove’s calm, protected waters. Or if you prefer, rent snorkel equipment ahead of time to save time. You can also book a guided snorkel tour and explore the coast with a professional.
Insider Tips from a Local
Street parking is limited — arrive early or park in one of the nearby paid lots.
Early mornings are less crowded and great for spotting wildlife.
Be mindful of cliffs and slippery rocks if you venture off-path.
FAQs About Ellen Browning Scripps Park in La Jolla
How much does it cost to visit Ellen Browning Scripps Park?
The park is completely free and open to the public year-round. It’s one of the best budget-friendly things to do in La Jolla, especially if you’re looking for beautiful ocean views and a relaxing atmosphere.
Where should I park near Ellen Browning Scripps Park?
Street parking is available along Coast Blvd and all the streets in La Jolla Village, but it fills up quickly — especially on weekends. There are also several paid parking lots within a 5–10 minute walk. If you’re visiting from out of town, consider renting a car here for easier access to La Jolla and the surrounding coastline.
Can you swim at Ellen Browning Scripps Park?
The park itself doesn’t have direct water access, but La Jolla Cove, just steps away, is a popular swimming, snorkeling, and diving spot. You can even book a guided snorkeling or kayak tour at nearby La Jolla Shores to experience the vibrant marine life in the area.
Are there restrooms or facilities at the park?
Yes, there are public restrooms at the south end of the park near the Children’s Pool, as well as the north end near La Jolla Cove. You’ll also find benches, picnic tables, and lots of open grass areas.
What’s the best time to visit Ellen Browning Scripps Park?
For smaller crowds and soft morning light, go early in the day. For breathtaking photos, the sunset hour is unbeatable — the park becomes a popular gathering spot as the sun dips below the horizon.
Final Thoughts
Ellen Browning Scripps Park is a great place to take in the beauty of the La Jolla region and San Diego coastline, as well as see marine life, and enjoy some of La Jolla's most beautiful beaches. If you're in the area, walking along the sidewalk that wraps around the park is an absolute must. Be sure to check out our post on Things to See in La Jolla for more activities along the coast.
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