Hotel Review: Scripps Inn in La Jolla

Where the crashing waves and jagged cliffs of La Jolla’s beautiful coastline meet the quintessential Southern California beachfront bed and breakfast – that’s Scripps Inn. Located just 15 minutes north of downtown San Diego and in the heart of La Jolla Village, Scripps Inn is steps from the beach, great restaurants, and other attractions. The Inn is perched on Whale Watch Point, making it a perfect vantage point to watch for migrating whales during the winter season.

Scripps Inn is a charming 14-room hotel situated high above the Pacific Ocean along the cliffs in La Jolla. A favorite spot for both family getaways and romantic hideaways, Scripps Inn offers stunning ocean views, gentle sea breezes and the sounds of the surf below.

With beautiful décor in sea-inspired hues of blue and tan, the Scripps Inn’s rooms are a luxurious sanctuary any time of the year. Some event offer fireplaces and all have outdoor seating where you can enjoy the fresh sea air and priceless views. During our recent visit, the hotel staff was exceptionally friendly and eager to help with requests and concerns; one person even came out of the lobby to offer assistance when they saw me lifting a big suitcase out of the trunk of my car!

Winter guests enjoy watching gray whales, while throughout the year guests also enjoy views of frolicking dolphins, seals and sea lions. The Inn is also walking distance to La Jolla Cove, the Children’s Pool, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and of course La Jolla’s many restaurants and boutiques. La Jolla also makes a great home base if your vacation includes plans to visit Legoland, Sea World, or any of San Diego’s other world famous attractions.

What Works for Families

• Central beach front location
• Free boogie boards and beach toys available for guests to use
• Friendly and helpful staff
• Big, beautifully decorated rooms
• Free continental breakfast
• Self-parking – a huge plus especially during the busy summer months!
• Terrace and outdoor seating

What Doesn’t Work for Families

• The beach is located across a busy street
• No pool
• No sit down restaurant on site
• While family friendly, Scripps Inn’s serene atmosphere might not be the best choice for families looking for a more vibrant, kid-centric environment

The Rooms

Our room was on the 2nd floor and offered expansive views of the ocean and cliffs. It had one king bed, but still plenty of room for a roll-away. There was also a sitting area, fire place, and a table and chairs which proved the perfect spot to enjoy our continental breakfast in the morning.

All guest rooms have been recently renovated. Guest rooms, suites and in-room kitchens feature California Coastal décor. Fourteen rooms are available and range from an oceanfront suite – featuring a view of the La Jolla Cove, a full parlor, private balcony and kitchen – to a garden suite with private courtyard entrance. All rooms have spacious bathrooms and an outdoor seating area.

Dining Options at Scripps Inn

Guests at the Scripps Inn begin their day with locally made scones, muffins, juice, coffee and other breakfast items served during the daily complimentary continental breakfast. You can either bring your breakfast back to the room or enjoy it outside on the Inn’s terrace overlooking the sea.

For lunch and dinner, you are just a short walk away from La Jolla Village. The Inn offers an enticing list of dining options. Among popular choices are Vigilucci’s Ristorante for excellent Italian fare, George’s California Modern for innovative contemporary cuisine, The Prep Kitchen for picnic lunches that taste home-made, and The Cottage for people-watching over brunch.

La Jolla Children’s Pool

It sounds like a great place to take the little ones for a swim, but the area’s wildlife had other ideas! Originally conceived as a protected swimming beach for children, the sea-walled cove is now a favorite spot for harbor seals. In fact, they have pretty much taken over the spot! Even if you can’t swim there, it’s a great place to take a photo. The Children’s Pool is a short walk along the coast from Scripps Inn.

Healthy Tip for This Destination

Scripps Inn is located directly across from the beach, so take advantage of it and enjoy a walk or run! There is a wide sidewalk running along the coastline in La Jolla, making the most of the area’s dramatic cliff side and ocean views. An early morning walk will let you revel in the area in solitude, or join the crowds at sunset and treat yourself to the breathtaking view of the sun dipping into the ocean.

Scripps Inn is located at 555 Coast Boulevard, La Jolla, CA. For more information or to make a reservation, call (858) 454-3391 or visit them online at www.scrippsinn.com