Dive La Jolla Shores

While it doesn't get the attention of La Jolla Cove's green fields, the shores are one of the best parts about San Diego.

Driving up to the large parking area it's immediately clear you've come to the right place as there's almost always divers suiting up in the early morning. A dive shop down the street (and in walking distance to save that parking spot) has you covered on air fills for the return trip too.

Suit up right at the lot or grab a picnic table with a group and gear there, then head out to the beach for a shore entry. Surf can be a challenge so head south (and away from the body boarders!).

Once you're in, kick out pretty far out until you see the depths drop, exhale and descend. There's a number of ridge lines that are full of life and activity from lobster to rays and everything in between. Keep an eye on your compass and depth as you descend out for more to see (bring a light too, it gets dark) before kicking back for a relaxing, underwater swim into the shore.

Best of all, you can surface a few feet from the entry and startle all the locals playing in the surf.