The sea wall was originally designed to create a calm, protected swimming pool for children, hence its name.
Harbor seals utilize this specific location to give birth and nurse their pups, making it a critical habitat.
The beach is part of a designated Marine Protected Area to ensure the health of local coastal ecosystems.
The concrete breakwater was completed in 1931 as a gift to the city of San Diego.
A permanent rope barrier is often placed during the December to May pupping season to prevent human interference with the seals.
The site is managed by the San Diego Lifeguard Service.
Children's Pool La Jolla is a cove protected by a curved concrete sea wall originally built to provide a safe swimming area for children. The site has transitioned into a primary haul-out site for a colony of Pacific harbor seals. Visitors can observe the seals from the beach or the adjacent sea wall, though human access to the sand is restricted during pupping season. The structure was commissioned by philanthropist Ellen Browning Scripps in 1931. The area is located within the La Jolla Underwater Park and Marine Conservation Area. Marine mammals here are protected under the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act. The sea wall remains a focal point for viewing both the animals and the coastal geography of the La Jolla shoreline.
From the middle of the curved sea wall, looking back toward the beach to capture the seals with the coastline in the background.
Bring binoculars to see the seals clearly from the safety of the wall without disturbing them.
Stay behind all marked rope barriers, especially during pupping season, to avoid federal fines and animal stress.
Plan for windy conditions on the exposed sea wall by bringing a light jacket.
Attempting to walk on the beach when the rope barrier is in place; it is illegal and harmful to the animals.
Beach access is frequently restricted or closed to humans from December 15 through May 15 to protect harbor seal pups.
Maintain a respectful distance from the seals at all times; federal law prohibits harassing or touching marine mammals.
