La Jolla, California...Hike Bike Kayak's Home.

  La Jolla, California, also known as "The Jewel", was established around 1850. Its name is disputed among scholars because it can be translated in both Spanish and Native American languages to mean separate things. The Spanish translation is "The Jewel". This translation is most widely accepted because of La Jolla's beauty and charm. However, it is also translated in a Native American language to mean, "Hole in the Mountains," also an appropriate title because of the many sea caves along La Jolla's coast.

Kayaking and Stand Up Paddle Boarding near the La Jolla sea caves

  In the beginning, La Jolla was not heavily developed. Although it was part of San Diego, it was not easily accessible to those around the area. In 1890, a railway was built that connected La Jolla to San Diego. This created a large influx of visitors and La Jolla was known as a resort destination. Soon, hotels and shops were popping up all around town.

  A few notable institutions in La Jolla are the Scripps Institute of Oceanography and Birch Aquarium. The Institute of Oceanography was founded in 1903. It is one of the largest and oldest ocean research centers and provides training for both graduates and undergraduates at the University of California, San Diego. The Birch Aquarium is an aquarium connected to the Scripps Institute of Oceanography. It features 3,000 animals that belong to 380 different species; many of which are found in the La Jolla ecological reserve.

   La Jolla Shores, where Hike Bike Kayak is located, is a stretch of beach about one mile long. It starts at the Sea Caves and ends at the Scripps Pier. Off the coast of the shores is the La Jolla ecological reserve. This is home to La Jolla Cove as well as a giant kelp forest. This kelp can grow up to 2 feet in one day and be as tall as 100 feet! Along with the reserve, La Jolla shores has a main street of shops and restaurants, and a very kid-friendly beach. 

Guest Blogger
Cayley Harrell