Your Guide to a Romantic 4th of July in La Jolla
With elegant façades, breathtaking coastal views, and high-end shops and restaurants, spend 4th of July in La Jolla for a vacation imbued with style and sophistication. By Independence Day, this chic coastal community is as buzzy as it gets. Need some inspiration for visiting on this quintessential summer holiday? Read on for our guide to the best things to do in La Jolla when you’re looking to add some pizzazz to your Fourth of July celebration.
Join a Guided Walking and Food Tour
There’s so much to love and see in La Jolla. So, if you only have a few days to spend in this charming neighborhood in San Diego, join a Guided Walking and Food Tour and experience the best of La Jolla. From food to arts, you’ll see it all.
Enjoy mouthwatering dishes from local cafes. Learn about La Jolla’s history from knowledgeable guides eager to share stories. Discover iconic landmarks and hidden gems while visiting galleries and studios that celebrate local talent. It’s fun, exciting, and educational, plus it gives you and your partner a chance to get out of your comfort zone and meet new people! Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes and wear sunscreen.
Splurge on a Top-Notch Meal
There’s no shortage of upscale restaurants in La Jolla to serve up a meal that will make your 4th of July in San Diego memorable. The town caters to the well-heeled and those who like to travel (and dine) in style.
To incorporate million-dollar views into your dinner, head up to the fourth floor of Cormorant Boutique Hotel, where Birdseye, a chic rooftop paradise, awaits. Enjoy a menu of inventive cuisine with Argentinian flair, not to mention craft cocktails that go perfectly with ocean panoramas. When you’re ready to switch things up a bit, there are plenty of other fine dining establishments within walking distance, many of which offer eye-catching chef specials, robust wine lists, and decadent desserts.
Check Out the Museum of Contemporary Art
The recently opened Museum of Contemporary Art adds to La Jolla’s repertoire of artistic assets. Located on Prospect Ave, this beautifully understated building houses works of art in permanent galleries and special exhibitions. Admission is $25 for adults, $15 for students and seniors, and free for members. Before you leave, make sure to stop through The Shop at MCASD, selling everything from books to handmade jewelry.
Explore La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove is a must-visit spot when in town over the 4th of July weekend. This picturesque beachfront gem is a true delight, offering breathtaking vistas that seem straight out of a postcard. The pristine waters are remarkably clear, and you’ll be enchanted by the sight of adorable seals basking on the sun-kissed rocks.
Make sure to bring along your snorkeling gear, as the underwater world here is nothing short of extraordinary, with vibrant marine life and fascinating rock formations to marvel at.
Watch the La Jolla 4th of July Drone Show
La Jolla has not had a 4th of July fireworks show since 2017 because fireworks are not allowed near Scripps Park, plus the past few years, there was the pandemic. But this year, things are literally lighting up as the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club is hosting a drone show to celebrate 4th of July.
Let’s admit it; it’s not as spectacular as a fireworks display. But it’s more environmentally friendly: no noise pollution and less carbon footprint. Catch the show at around 8:45pm at the resort, La Jolla Shores Hotel, or Kellogg Park.
Celebrate 4th of July on a yacht
Spice up your 4th of July plans with a romantic yacht cruise in San Diego. It’s the perfect way for couples to celebrate the holiday in style while basking in the beauty of San Diego’s coastal charm. Sip champagne, savor gourmet cuisine, and let the gentle sea breeze caress your skin. As the sun sets, marvel at the mesmerizing spectacle of fireworks illuminating the night sky. It’s a dreamy way to celebrate love and patriotism on this special holiday.
You can choose from different kinds of yacht cruise experience on 4th of July. There’s the Pier Pressure Red, White & Fireworks Cruise by VIP nightlife, the 4th of July Fireworks Yacht Cruise San Diego by iBoatNYC, or the 4th of July Firework Sailabration! by Triton Charters.
Catch a Fourth of July Fireworks Show Near La Jolla
What would Fourth of July in San Diego be without a fireworks show? Luckily, there are plenty of ways to see a spectacular display light up the night sky. Head to Big Bay Boom, San Diego’s premier fireworks event taking place near Seaport Village, Coronado Ferry Landing, North Embarcadero, Marina District, South Embarcadero, Shelter Island, and Harbor Island — all great spots to have a high-end dinner before the show starts. This annual San Diego event begins at 9 p.m., so make sure to come early to snag your spot. It’s estimated as many as 750,000 people will be in attendance!
For something a little more low-key, head north to the Del Mar Fairgrounds to attend the 9 p.m. fireworks show taking place as part of the San Diego County Fair. For the best views, you’ll need to buy a ticket to the fair. A fun summer day of games, rides, and entertainment, capped off with a fireworks show — we can’t think of a better way to spend the holiday.
Visit a San Diego Theme Park
Fireworks by the ocean are nice but shake things up and go wild at a San Diego Theme Park for the 4th of July. Celebrate the holiday with spectacular fireworks and exhilarating rides. It’s fun and exciting!
Head to Legoland for a star-spangled 4th of July celebration — Red, White & BOOM, where you can marvel at the incredible LEGO creations and enjoy exciting rides. If not, head to Disneyland for a magical experience with your beloved childhood characters and exciting attractions. Seaworld is also doing a special 4th of July celebration with a stunt show, live concerts, a bioluminescent percussion show, fireworks, and more! Don’t forget to book your tickets early.
Cormorant Boutique Hotel is your best choice if you’re looking for a boutique hotel for your 4th of July in La Jolla. With immaculate rooms and luxe amenities like private balconies and in-room Nespresso makers, it will have you feeling like royalty. As a bonus to guests, we offer 20% off at Everyday California Kayak, a water sports rental company and tour operator located in La Jolla.