Due to the pandemic, tours are currently on a reservation basis, with walk-ins only available on Tuesdays (and Thursdays starting November 2). The 144 stairs leading into the cave take most people around 5 minutes to climb. Tours are private, self-guided, and last about 15 to 20 minutes. The cave is a great spot to visit for locals and tourists alike, and is the perfect activity for those with an eclectic taste in adventure. With spectacular views and so much history to offer, it’s no wonder that this attraction has been frequented for so long.

Frank Baum, creator of The Wizard of Oz, who thought the opening of the cave resembled the head of the cartoon character from British cereal Force Wheat Flakes. So why Sunny Jim? No one knows for sure, but some say that the cave was given the name by L. Rumor has it that the tunnel quickly caught the attention of bootleggers during the Prohibition era, who used the tunnel to smuggle alcohol and opium into San Diego. Not to mention interesting insight into La Jolla’s history. Not quite as much of an adrenaline rush nowadays, nonetheless this quirky spot still offers visitors a unique experience with breathtaking views. When the attraction first opened, tourists had to descend the tunnel by rope. Sunny Jim’s Cave has been fascinating curious tourists since. His plan was to give residents a unique vantage point to marvel at one of the famous La Jolla sea caves, and it’s safe to say his plan was a success. The tunnel dates back to 1902, when German professor, engineer and entrepreneur Gustav Schultz hired two Chinese laborers to dig a tunnel from his residence to the sea cave below. After entering the store, visitors must descend 144 stairs through an old tunnel carved into the cliffs over a century ago in order to reach the famous cave.

That’s not to say this attraction won’t cater to your adventurous side. In fact, it’s the only sea cave that you can visit in La Jolla without traveling over water.

This shop, located on Coast Boulevard, offers access to Sunny Jim’s Cave through an old man-made tunnel. If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path, head to the Cave Store. Even aside from the beaches, La Jolla offers an abundance of activities and attractions to fill the day. Surrounded on three sides by the ocean, its seven mile stretch of beautiful coastline is reason enough to attract swimmers, surfers, snorkelers and kayakers. La Jolla, San Diego’s ‘jewel’, certainly lives up to its name.

The cave store