Children's Pool Beach
La Jolla, CA
Children's Pool Beach was built as a sheltered swimming cove for kids, but it's now known as a genuine harbor seal haul-out and viewing area, with a breakwater that keeps the water calm for both the seals and the crowds who come to watch them. Coast Boulevard Park sits along the bluff above with real views up and down the coast.
A genuinely unique wildlife viewing spot that's evolved well beyond its original purpose, worth the visit even without getting in the water.
How we score beachesSeal viewing is best in winter and early spring during pupping season, when the beach often closes to the public to protect the animals.
Limited on-street parking near Coast Blvd.
Dogs are allowed on leash only outside San Diego's standard beach hours, before 9am and after 6pm in summer and before 9am and after 4pm in winter.
Harbor seal pupping season runs roughly December through May, the best window for wildlife viewing though beach access may be restricted.
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