Swimming with the Sea Lions of La Jolla Cove in San Diego, California

Many years ago, we traveled to La Jolla Cove, where we were able to see the Sea Lions. I was even able to swim with them!

La Jolla Cove in San Diego has this incredible vibe thanks to the California sea lions that hang out on its rocky beaches and shores. They're like the stars of the show, drawing in tons of people who just want to watch them lounge around or splash in the water. It's part of this protected underwater park, which keeps things safe for them even with all the city buzz nearby. These sea lions really capture that wild-meets-urban feel, making the place feel alive and special.

Most of what you'll see there are California sea lions, super smart and full of energy, always chatting with each other through barks and growls. They've got those little ear flaps that set them apart from seals, and their long flippers let them strut around on land like they own the place. The guys get huge, pushing 8 feet and over 800 pounds, while the ladies are more petite at about 6 feet and 200 pounds. They chow down on fish like sardines and squid from the ocean right offshore.

What pulls them to La Jolla Cove is the cozy setup—sheltered spots, plenty of food, and those thick kelp forests that calm the waves. The rocks are perfect for chilling out, away from sharks or killer whales lurking in deeper waters. It's a key pit stop on their coastal journeys, from breeding islands down south to feeding grounds up north.

Around 250 to 350 sea lions might be kicking it in the area at once, but that's just a drop in the bucket compared to the whole West Coast crew. They're not endangered, but stuff like pollution, people getting too close, and shifting ocean temps mess with their food supply. Groups keep an eye on them, counting heads and checking health to make sure they stick around.

A typical day for these guys involves sprawling out on the rocks, diving for snacks, or floating together in big groups on the water. They're noisy, barking to claim territory or flirt, and you'll see them piled up for warmth or the young ones roughhousing like kids at recess.

Birthing time hits from May to October, with most pups arriving in June and July. Moms have one baby each on the beach, feeding them milk for months while teaching them the ropes of swimming and hunting. It's tough for the little ones, though, with weather and other challenges making survival a gamble.

Sadly, last year saw a heartbreaking loss—about 78% of the pups born in the busier spots didn't make it past six weeks, way higher than in quieter areas. People crowding in for selfies or getting too near stresses out the moms, sometimes leading them to abandon their babies.

Tensions have been rising between the sea lions and folks visiting the beach, with some aggressive run-ins where sea lions charge at people who invade their space, especially around pup season. There've been videos going around from the last couple of years, sparking talks about maybe moving the sea lions to give people more room to enjoy the sand.

To keep things safe, rules say stay at least 50 feet back, and they rope off zones when babies are around. Signs are everywhere warning about fines if you bother them, and lifeguards watch to step in if needed. The best way to enjoy is from a distance, maybe with binoculars, so everyone stays happy.

Great places to spot them include the paths along Coast Boulevard, from the cave shop down to the kids' pool area, where they haul up on the rocks. The cove itself is prime, with them swimming near Boomer Beach. Hit it in the late morning or early afternoon when they're most lively.

Telling sea lions from harbor seals is easy once you know—seals don't have ear flaps, they slither on their bellies, and they're way quieter and more solitary. Sea lions take the rocky, open spots, while seals like the calmer pools.

The whole situation at La Jolla Cove sparks ongoing chats about how to handle wildlife in spots where people love to hang out too. With recent pup losses tied to crowds, some push for more protections, others want beaches open for all. Finding that middle ground is key to keeping the wonder alive for years to come.

I hope you enjoyed my post about my trip from several years ago! It was a memorable one! Please upvote and share!