La Jolla, California

La Jolla (pronounced "la hoya") is a coastal resort neighborhood of San Diego, located 13 miles (21 kilometers) north of San Diego's downtown. La Jolla is part of San Diego County, and home to 42,850 people.

Naturally, La Jolla's spectacular beaches are its prime attraction. La Jolla Shores Beach offers one mile (two kilometers) of sandy shores, gentle waves, and the city's only beachfront boat launch. You can also enjoy a picnic in nearby Kellogg Park.

At the north end of the beach, you'll find the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, one of the world's largest marine science research centers. To promote public education, the Scripps Institution operates the Stephen Birch Aquarium and Museum. In addition to sharks, coral reefs, and other fascinating exhibits, you'll also see concerts, dive shows, and live feedings. The Museum also offers an exciting simulator ride and guided tours of the Scripps Research Pier.

Looking for more watery adventures? Head to the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Ecological Reserve, a 6,000-acre (2,428-hectare) underwater park that's perfect for diving, snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, or observing the amazing diversity of marine life. You can also dive at the beautiful La Jolla Cove, or ride the waves at Windansea Beach. Torrey Pines State Reserve and Beach is another local hotspot, and offers colorful sandstone bluffs along with excellent swimming, fishing, and surfing. And since this is California, you'll even have wireless internet access at the beach!

Golfers will find many exciting challenges on La Jolla's three spectacular courses. Among them is the world-famous Torrey Pines Municipal Golf Course, which hosts the PGA Buick Invitational each year.

La Jolla has a lively arts and culture scene, and is home to the La Jolla Symphony and Chorus, the Athenaeum Music and Arts Library, and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Former residents have included actors Gregory Peck, Cliff Robertson, and Raquel Welch, and you can check out future stars at the University of California-San Diego's La Jolla Playhouse. Still looking for more? Remember that there's still the rest of San Diego and southern California to explore!

Looking for beach, culture, and balmy weather? Then consider La Jolla, the "jewel" of southern California!

See our 33 Jobs in La Jolla, California