If you’re up for an adventure in La Jolla, San Diego, then you have to check out The Cave Store and Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave. This quirky, historic spot at 1325 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037, is like stepping into another world—a world where smugglers, sea caves, and secret tunnels collide. Back in 1902, a German entrepreneur named Gustav Schultz had a wild idea. He hired laborers to dig a 145-step tunnel from his house (now The Cave Store) down into a sea cave below. Armed with just shovels and pickaxes, they spent two years carving out the passage, and when they were done, Schultz started charging visitors to descend into what would become Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave. The name? That came from L. Frank Baum (yep, the guy who wrote The Wizard of Oz, who thought the cave’s opening looked like the silhouette of a British cereal mascot named Sunny Jim.

Fast forward to today, and you can still walk down that same tunnel carved straight into the cliffs of La Jolla. It’s a dimly lit, slightly damp, and cool journey that takes you right into the belly of the cave. The sound of crashing waves echoes through the tunnel, and when you finally step onto the viewing platform, you’re greeted with a jaw-dropping view of the Pacific Ocean. If you time it right, you might see kayakers paddling through the sea caves or even catch a glimpse of playful sea lions bobbing in the waves. The Cave Store itself is a charming little shop packed with coastal treasures. Think seashell jewelry, ocean-themed gifts, and even snorkeling gear if you’re planning to explore La Jolla’s famous underwater world. It’s got that perfect blend of history and beach-town charm, making it a great stop even if you don’t want to take the cave tour.

And let’s talk about the area around The Cave Store because, wow, La Jolla is something special. Just a short walk away, you’ll find La Jolla Cove, one of the most beautiful (and most photographed) spots in San Diego. The water here is crystal clear, making it perfect for snorkeling and swimming. It’s also home to an incredible variety of marine life, including the famous orange Garibaldi fish. Oh, and did I mention the sea lions? They’re everywhere—lounging on the rocks, barking at visitors, and generally being adorable. If you keep strolling along Coast Blvd, you’ll come across Ellen Browning Scripps Park, a lush green space with panoramic ocean views. This is a great place to relax, have a picnic, or just soak up the California sunshine. And if you’re up for more sea cave action, check out Clam’s Cave, the only cave in La Jolla that’s visible from land. It’s right along the coast and adds even more to the area’s natural beauty.

Now, let’s be real—parking in La Jolla can be tough. Street parking is available but fills up quickly, especially on weekends. That’s why having your rental car is a game changer. Need a ride? Carcor Rentals has you covered! Book your car today here or give them a call at +1 858-723-0040. Trust me, having your wheels makes exploring La Jolla (and all of San Diego) so much easier. So, what are you waiting for? Whether you’re a history buff, an ocean lover, or just someone who enjoys unique experiences, The Cave Store and Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave are an absolute must-visit. Step into San Diego’s past, take in the incredible coastal views and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget.