Each summer, the shallow, protected waters of La Jolla Shores Beach become home to one of California’s most incredible wildlife encounters: snorkeling with leopard sharks.
The La Jolla leopard sharks gather here from June through December, with peak activity in August and September. The best time to see them is during calm, low-tide mornings while wading or snorkeling near The Marine Room restaurant.
Despite their name, leopard sharks are completely harmless to humans and often swim just feet from shore. This experience is calm, accessible, and offers a close-up look at marine life—no boat, tour, or advanced swimming skills required.
In this guide, I’ll explain why the sharks come here, how to see them safely, and how local experts can take you snorkeling or kayaking for an even closer look.
Why Leopard Sharks Gather in La Jolla
The leopard sharks return annually for a very specific reason. Nearly all of them are pregnant females, and the area offers exactly what they need: warm, shallow water and easy access to food.
Leopard sharks are cold-blooded. The warm, sunlit shallows help raise their body temperature, which scientists believe speeds up their 10 to 11-month gestation period. The calm environment also protects them from larger predators.
Just offshore, the La Jolla Submarine Canyon drops into deep water, rich with marine life. Sharks rest in the shallows during the day, then swim short distances to feed on squid, crabs, and fish eggs at night. This unique geography makes La Jolla an ideal habitat.
Leopard sharks are easy to recognize thanks to their dark, saddle-like spots on a gray or brown body. These patterns are unique to each shark and help scientists identify individuals.
In La Jolla, most sharks you’ll see are between four and five feet long, though they can grow up to six feet. Despite their size, they are shy, slow-moving, and not dangerous to people.
Their small mouths face downward and are designed for suction feeding along the seafloor. They eat shrimp, clams, crabs, fish eggs, and other small prey found in the sand and nearby kelp beds.
Leopard sharks are found all along the Pacific Coast, from Washington to Mazatlán, Mexico, including the Gulf of California. They typically arrive in La Jolla around June and stay through December, with peak activity in August and September.
The incredible abundance of marine life you’ll see is no accident. The entire leopard shark viewing area is located within the Matlahuayl State Marine Reserve, part of a network of protected “underwater parks” that includes the La Jolla Ecological Reserve. This area has had some form of protection since 1929, allowing the ecosystem to flourish with minimal human disturbance.
The purpose of this reserve is to conserve the rich biodiversity of the region, from the kelp forests to the sandy seafloor where the sharks rest. This long-term protection has created a thriving, healthy habitat that serves as a vital nursery for leopard sharks and countless other species. As a visitor, you are a guest in this special sanctuary.
The primary rule is simple: look, but don’t touch. It is unlawful to injure, damage, take, or possess any living, geological, or cultural marine resource. This means no collecting shells, no disturbing the animals, and leaving everything exactly as you found it so this natural wonder can be preserved for generations to come.
When to See Leopard Sharks in 2025
The season typically runs from June to early December, although conditions vary. Here’s how to time your visit for the best viewing.
Check tide charts and surf reports in advance. A clear, sunny morning with low surf and low tide offers the best possible experience.
While leopard sharks can be seen all along La Jolla Shores Beach, the most reliable viewing area is just offshore from The Marine Room restaurant.
You can reach this spot by:
This area remains shallow for a long distance offshore, which is why the sharks favor it.
You don’t need much to enjoy this experience, but a few items will make it more comfortable.
Recommended gear:
Safety and etiquette tips:
Always avoid kicking vigorously. Floating quietly on the surface is the best way to see them.
Staying within walking distance of the beach makes it easier to visit early and avoid parking hassles. These La Jolla Shores hotels are ideal:
This iconic resort sits on one of California’s last private beaches. La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club shares beachfront access with The Marine Room and offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites. Amenities include tennis courts, a 9-hole golf course, massage services, and beachfront dining. .
Next door, this 128-room hotel offers direct beach access, beach gear rentals, and family-friendly service. The Shores Restaurant is a local favorite for casual sunset happy hour. Check availability.
Located just a few blocks from the beach, Hotel La Jolla strikes a great balance between proximity and comfort. Many rooms offer ocean views, but the one from the rooftop restaurant is spectacular. The rooms here are a bit nicer than the other two. Check availability.
Trust me, summer parking near La Jolla Shores can be frustrating without a plan in place. Here are your best options:
If you prefer to have gear and guidance included, several local companies offer leopard shark snorkeling and kayaking tours. These are especially good for families or anyone wanting a more structured experience.
Tours usually last 90 minutes and include all equipment. Some also offer marine biology guides who explain what you’re seeing.
Reputable tour providers include:
Frequently Asked Questions
Top photo credit: leopard sharks and swimmers photo is courtesy of Birch Aquarium at Scripps.