La Jolla & Pacific Beach: Electric Bike Tour with Sea Lions

Summary

Sea lions at La Jolla Cove, surf breaks, and coastal rides on e-bikes

You’ll ride premium electric bikes along La Jolla & Pacific Beach’s coastline, spot sea lions at Ellen Browning Scripps Park, watch surfers at Windansea Beach, and wander historic piers—all with snacks, water, and a local guide who keeps things easygoing. Expect salty air, laughter, and plenty of time to soak it all in.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if sea lions really smell as strong as people say? I found out the answer somewhere between the salty breeze and the chatter of our little group as we rolled up to La Jolla Cove. We’d started this electric bike tour in La Jolla with a quick run-through from our guide (I forgot his name — sorry, dude), who had that laid-back San Diego vibe but still made sure we didn’t crash into anything expensive. The bikes were way easier than I thought — you barely have to pedal unless you want to. There was bottled water and some snacks at the shop before we set off, which I appreciated more than I expected because the sun was already warming up by 10am.

The first real stop was Ellen Browning Scripps Park. There’s something about watching sea lions flop around right next to people taking selfies that makes you realize how weirdly chill California is. Our guide pointed out some old murals left over from when this was an artist colony — I wouldn’t have noticed them otherwise. At Children’s Pool Beach, there were seals too, and honestly, it smelled a bit fishy but in a way that felt part of the place. I tried to get a photo without someone’s elbow in it but gave up and just watched them for a while instead.

We cruised down past Windansea Beach (the surf looked wild — one guy wiped out right as we stopped), then wound through Bird Rock with its tide pools and those houses that make you wonder what people do for a living to afford them. The ride itself was mostly flat, so even when my legs got lazy, the e-bike picked up the slack. We passed agave plants and cacti in someone’s yard; my friend joked about how they’d survive longer than any houseplant back home. There were kids playing near a shaded playground and locals waving like they see tourists on bikes every day (which they probably do).

The last bit took us onto this old wooden pier where you could just sit and watch surfers or poke around these funny little rental cottages that look straight out of another decade. It wasn’t rushed — we could hang back or zip ahead if we wanted, which felt pretty rare for a group tour. I still think about that feeling of coasting along the coast with just enough sun on my face and not much else on my mind except maybe where we’d get tacos after.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Electric bike tour of La Jolla coast

• Arrive early to pick up eBikes
• Receive bike instructions and snacks
• Explore La Jolla Cove and sea lions
• Visit Children's Pool Beach and seals
• Take photos at Windansea Beach surf spot
• Explore Bird Rock shoreline and tide pools
• Pedal through landscaped neighborhood trail
• Relax on historic wooden pier

Top questions

How long does the La Jolla & Pacific Beach electric bike tour last?

The tour lasts longer than two hours; allow extra time for stops along the route.

Are electric bikes provided for everyone?

Yes, premium electric bicycles are included for all participants.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is included; meet at the shop in La Jolla for check-in.

Do I need to be physically fit for this e-bike tour?

The route is suitable for all fitness levels since most of it is flat and e-bikes assist with pedaling.

What should I wear or bring?

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for biking (no heels); helmets are provided.

Can children join this bike tour?

The minimum rider age is 15 years old.

Are snacks or drinks included during the ride?

Bottled water and light refreshments are provided before setting off on the tour.

Where can I park if driving to the meeting point?

There are paid lots nearby; limited free parking is available on Ivanhoe and Park Row streets one block north of the shop.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a premium electric bicycle sized to fit you, helmet rental, bottled water and light snacks before departure—all starting from an easy-to-find shop in La Jolla with help from your local guide at check-in.