La Jolla & Mt. Soledad: Electric Bike Tour Coastal Views

Summary

Electric biking coastal hills sea lions laughter and La Jolla’s colors

You’ll cruise La Jolla’s hills by electric bike, laugh with your guide over local stories, watch sea lions at Children’s Pool Beach, and stand atop Mount Soledad for sweeping views—all with snacks, water, and small group company included.

What’s the experience like?

I was already sweating before we even started—couldn’t find parking on Ivanhoe, circled twice, finally squeezed into a spot on Park Row. The shop felt easygoing; our guide, Mike, handed me a cold bottle of water and grinned when I fumbled with the eBike controls (“Don’t worry, everyone does that the first time”). My helmet sat a bit crooked but nobody cared. We rolled out with the sun just starting to warm up La Jolla’s streets, salt air mixing with fresh-cut grass from someone’s yard.

The first climb up Nautilus felt like cheating (in a good way) with the electric assist. Mike pointed out murals near La Jolla High School—he told us about the old artist colony here. I didn’t expect to learn about art on a bike tour, but it kind of stuck with me. At Windansea Beach we stopped for photos—surfers bobbing in the waves, boards flashing white against blue water. There was this smell of sunscreen and kelp that reminded me of summers as a kid. A pelican swooped low and startled one of us (not naming names), which got everyone laughing.

We coasted down toward Children’s Pool Beach where sea lions barked at each other like cranky neighbors. You could hear them before you saw them—honestly louder than I thought they’d be. Mike explained how locals feel about sharing space with them; it’s complicated but kind of funny too. The ride along Bird Rock was smoother than I expected, past houses with cactus gardens and kids waving from their driveways.

The real highlight? That last push up to Mount Soledad Memorial. I had to crank up the e-assist all the way (no shame). At the top it was windy and quiet except for flags snapping overhead—San Diego spread out below, Mexico hazy in the distance. Someone said it looked like you could see forever; maybe you can on clear days. I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Electric bike tour of La Jolla and Mount Soledad

• Arrive early to pick up eBikes
• Receive bike instructions and snacks
• Explore La Jolla Cove and sea lions
• Interact with seals at Children's Pool
• Take photos at Windansea Beach
• Explore Bird Rock shoreline and tide pools
• Pedal through landscaped neighborhood and trail
• Learn about La Jolla High School area
• Ride up Nautilus to Mount Soledad
• Enjoy 360-degree views at Veterans Memorial

Top questions

How long is the La Jolla & Mt. Soledad electric bike tour?

The tour lasts longer than two hours; allow extra time for parking and check-in before departure.

Is hotel pickup included in this bike tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at the San Diego Tours and Rentals Shop in La Jolla.

What is the minimum age for this La Jolla electric bike tour?

The minimum age is 15 years old for all participants.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the tour?

Yes, snacks and cold bottled water are included for all riders.

Do I need to be very fit to join this e-bike tour?

You should have at least moderate fitness and be able to ride a bicycle confidently.

Where do we meet for the start of the tour?

You meet at Suite D in the Crosby Center; look for San Diego Tours and Rentals Shop in La Jolla.

What if I’m shorter than 5’2” or over 240 lbs?

Please alert staff if under 5’2”; maximum rider weight is 240 lbs for this specific tour.

Is there free parking near the meeting point?

Free curbside parking may be found on Ivanhoe or Park Row streets nearby; paid lots are also available.

What’s included

Your day includes an expert local guide leading your small group through La Jolla by powerful electric bike—with snacks and cold bottled water provided along the way—and secure storage at the shop for anything you don’t want to carry during your ride.