An Autumn Adventure in La Jolla, California

What is it that brings us to California again and again. Is it the weather? Could it be the adventures? Maybe the amazing food? I think it’s the combination of all the above. We spent a fall weekend away from Minnesota for a little rest and relaxation in La Jolla, California. La Jolla is a neighborhood of San Diego located about 12 miles from the city center. It is a 20 minute drive from San Diego International Airport and is easily accessible by rental car, car service or bus. Below, we are chasing the sunset on our flight with Delta Airlines.

After settling into our hotel (more to come) and a good night sleep, it was time for some morning exercise with views. There are plenty of trails and sidewalks along the coast, through the neighborhoods and to the beaches. Catch the Coast Walk Trail (a series of trails and sidewalks) to walk from Windansea Beach to La Jolla Beach. Stunning views, beach access, easy walking and beautiful architecture to see.

Lodging options in the area are plentiful. Choices range from full service hotels, boutique hotels, bed & breakfasts as well as VRBO and Airbnb rentals. Whatever style of lodging you are looking for, you can find it in the neighborhood. On our first trip to La Jolla we went the rental house route, this time we took advantage of a hotel with amenities. Our pick was the La Valencia Hotel. La Valancia is a Californian vintage styled hotel with a choice of standard rooms, suites and villas. The brunch was awesome and the hotel bar was busy with tourists, event attendees and lively staff. La Valencia is located between Scripps Park and Prospect Street which is an easy walk for shopping and dining as well as the oceanside trails.

Yes, this hotel is an event destination, especially for weddings. Not only was this a weekend getaway for us, it was a weekend to celebrate as a married couple! What fun to watch the hotel turn on the charm for one lucky couple getting married on the same day as us, only 15 years later….

Wineries in Southern California? We headed about 30 minutes North of town to do a little wine tasting on a lovely Sunday afternoon. Our first stop was Cordiano Winery, located in hills of Escandido. A wine flight and appetizer served with a background of mountain views for miles……

Just a few miles down the road is the lovely boutique styled Espinosa Vineyards & Winery. The shaded outdoor patio is beautiful and a great place to enjoy a glass of their wine. Check out their cool wine cave built into the patio landscaping. There are many wineries to choose from that are located just a short drive from San Diego.

We made an afternoon of learning about the local area preserved in 1820’s to the 1870’s at this historic park. Head to Old Town San Diego to enjoy historic (even ghostly) tours, sights and authentic cuisine of the times. Definitely good for an afternoon excursion.

Sounds of Old Town

Last but not least, a few honorable mentions for the local restaurant scene. Eddie V’s is a must for their seafood menu and awesome views from La Jolla Beach to Torre Pines. The Herringbone was a first for us. What a cool dinning ambiance, we basically ate our way through the appetizer menu! Unfortunately, Herringbone has closed for good at of December 2022. For a little evening fun we stopped by Hennessey’s for some refreshments and live music.