Summer Adventure // Family Beach Escape at The Shores Hotel, La Jolla, CA
Posted on June 27, 2025
When summer in Arizona starts heating up (I mean really heating up – like to 115 degrees!), we always start dreaming of cool ocean breezes and sandy toes. For our most recent family getaway, we packed up the car and made our way to one of Southern California’s most picturesque spots—La Jolla, where we stayed at The Shores Hotel, right on the beach. Read on to hear all about our trip!
I say this every time we return from a trip to the beach, but we feel incredibly fortunate to be able to make this 5-hour drive to the beach as often as we do. When we lived in Illinois, we were either a plane ride away or a lengthy drive down to Florida. We’ve become obsessed with the West Coast and try to get there as often as we can!
This June, we hopped in the car to make a few stops in Southern California and first up was La Jolla! One of our favorites! We’ve been there a few times before and it just never disappoints!
The second we pulled up to The Shores Hotel, we could feel the vacation vibes settle in.
This place is casual and cool in all the right ways—bikes near the lobby, freshly brewed coffee in the morning, and that salty ocean air greeting you every time you open the door.
For a family that loves the beach but still appreciates comfort, this place checked all the boxes.
We were staying in their corner beachfront suite, and wow—those views! The wraparound windows gave us sweeping sights of the Pacific, and we watched the sun melt into the water each evening without ever leaving our room. The suite was spacious enough for all five of us (yes, even with three boys constantly bouncing around), and we loved the modern coastal decor—bright, breezy, and functional.
Room Highlights: Space + Views = Family Win
The room had two queen beds and a pull-out sofa sleeper so the kids could have their pick for the night! We had a desk, mini fridge, coffee station, dresser and the best part, hands down a massive wrap-around patio!
We honestly hit the jackpot with the patio – it is one of the largest we’ve ever seen! The boys could play catch on the side with room for us to sit out at the pub table or sitting chairs in the front part of the patio.
And when traveling with 3 beach bums, the line to hang-dry suits, trunks and towels was much appreciated!
Who doesn’t love waking up to the sound of waves and sipping coffee while looking out at the shoreline from the balcony? It felt like we were on the beach—because we practically were!
Location, Location, Location
Being right on La Jolla Shores Beach was a total game-changer for our family. No packing up the car, no driving and unloading—just step outside, and you’re there. The kids spent hours boogie boarding, building sandcastles, and chasing seagulls while we set up a cozy beach base only steps from our room.
The hotel also offers free beach chairs, towels, and umbrellas, which made it easy for us to travel light. And when we needed a break from the sun, we’d head back up to the room, get cleaned up and chill out for a bit before heading back down for the evening.
Kellogg Park is located next door to the property [and fortunately, next door to our room] so we had ample space for them to run, play, swing, jump, climb and throw frisbees and footballs!
We ventured down the beach to check out the Scripps Pier which was super cool.
We watched surfers galore doing their thing along the way and stood under the pier for an awesome shot!
Dining at The Shores Restaurant
Right next door is The Shores Restaurant, which quickly became our go-to for oceanfront meals.
With a kids’ menu, fresh seafood, and plenty of options for picky eaters (we’ve got a couple), It made dining out a breeze. Plus, eating with a view of the waves rolling in? Pure vacation magic.
I’ve had the short rib pasta a couple of times and it is delicious!
There were also outdoor tables and firepits set-up for dining or just happy hour near the beach.
It was the perfect spot for warming up after those breezy beach nights.
Poolside Fun & Hot Tub Time
One of the biggest surprises (and wins!) for the boys was the pool and hot tub area. After hours on the beach, it was the perfect place to rinse off the salt in the outdoor shower and keep the fun going.
The pool was just the right size—not overwhelming but big enough for water games and splashing around.
The hot tub became our post-dinner ritual—bubbles, sunset skies, and tired happy kids soaking after a big day.
Outdoor Games & Laid-Back Vibes
Another unexpected highlight? The outdoor games available right on the hotel grounds! The boys loved playing cornhole, giant Connect Four, and ping pong. It was a great way to break up beach time and gave them something fun to do while we relaxed nearby with a drink or coffee. It’s those little touches that make a stay feel easy and fun when traveling with kids.
Nearby Family Fun
La Jolla is packed with family-friendly activities. From kayaking in the sea caves to visiting the Birch Aquarium, we found plenty to keep the boys busy. We didn’t squeeze in a stop at La Jolla Cove to see the sea lions this trip, but its always a hit!
Best part? We never had to venture far—everything was a short drive or bike ride away.
Final Thoughts: Perfect Beach Base for Families
If you’re a family looking for a relaxed, beachfront escape without the fuss, The Shores Hotel is a hidden gem. We loved how easy everything felt—from check-in to beach days, from meals to sunset walks. It was the kind of trip where we could all truly unplug, slow down, and soak in time together.
Between the pool, hot tub, outdoor games, beach access, and roomy suite, it was everything we needed for a break from the desert heat—and then some.
From desert heat to coastal breeze, this La Jolla stay was just what our family needed— and the boys are already asking when we can go back, and honestly? So are we.
