I’ve been visiting Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa for over 20 years. From overnight stays and family weddings to spa days and cocktails at Mustangs & Burros, I’ve experienced it all.
I’ve also witnessed changes in ownership and exciting property enhancements. I think that the secluded La Jolla hotel’s offerings are better than ever, but there are things to know before you check in as a day or overnight guest.
This AAA Four-Diamond retreat offers a peaceful, hacienda-style escape in La Jolla. Whether you’re here for a day or longer, here’s what to expect.
The Location
Understanding the Estancia La Jolla’s Torrey Pines location before booking in is very important, so I’m mentioning it first.
If you’re a parent visiting a student at the University of California, San Diego, this is one of the closest hotels to UCSD. It’s right across the street from Thurgood Marshall College.
Occasionally, they offer promotions for UCSD families and alumni, which you’ll find on the special offers page. It’s also a popular business hotel for people who need to be close to the university or the nearby biotech companies.
Torrey Pines Road, the street that the hotel is on, is busy. However, the hotel feels quiet because it’s tucked back a little from the street. We once checked into a room that faced toward Torrey Pines Road and didn’t hear any noise.
One perk of this location is easy access to the I-5 freeway, our main transportation artery. For example, the I-5 takes you north to LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad and south to downtown San Diego from a central San Diego location.
I suggest having a car when staying here or be prepared to rely on rideshares.
In theory, you can walk about a mile to Black’s Beach, a famous La Jolla beach for a nude area and surfing. Be warned that the walk downhill feels easy, but the very steep walk back up from the beach does not.
Driving to La Jolla Shores Beach is a far better option for everyday beachgoing, kayaking, surfing lessons, and snorkeling.
The Torrey Pines Gliderport (panoramic views and paragliding), the Salk Institute (to admire architecture), and UCSD are the attractions within walking distance. The one restaurant that is reachable in just under 10 minutes of walking is Bella Vista Social Club and Caffe (we like it). La Jolla Playhouse is also a walkable mile away, though you may want to return in an Uber should the performance end after sunset.
When it comes to driving, you can reach the La Jolla Shores area in about 5 minutes and the Village of La Jolla (go here to see La Jolla Cove and the La Jolla seals) in 15 minutes. Torrey Pines Golf Course is right around the corner, a few minutes away.
Depending on where you’re going, it takes about 10-15 minutes to get to the shopping, restaurants, and beaches of Del Mar. The concierge team can help organize your itinerary with all of the fantastic things to do in La Jolla and beyond.
Rooms and Suites at Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa
The 210 guest rooms and suites at Estancia La Jolla are thoughtfully spread across 10 acres of Spanish-Colonial-style buildings, none taller than three stories.
This low-rise design enhances the serene garden ambiance while maintaining a sense of privacy. Whether you’re booking a standard room or a spacious suite, you’ll find accommodations designed to blend charm with comfort.
Room Size: Approximately 395 sq. ft.Maximum Occupancy: Up to 4 adultsBed Options: 1 King or 2 Queen beds
Also, why rent a pool cabana if your room’s patio doubles as one? Here’s what that looks like. There’s a see-through fence between your patio and the pool for privacy. The cabanas also provide some privacy from your neighbor’s patio.
Use your key at one of the gates to get to the pool area. In the photo below, one of the gates is near the palm tree.
Estate Suites
Presidential Suite
Dining at Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa
We go to Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa quite often for dining and events. The food and drinks across the resort are good. Think colorful and fresh West Coast cuisine that incorporates the flavors of Napa, Mexico, the Southwest, and everything in between.
We have been here many, many times. While they do have indoor dining space, you should sit on the patio. Bench seating wraps around the side with the outdoor fireplace while little lanterns hang from the trellis to further light the space.
It’s just lovely in good weather, which we pretty much always have. Order the guacamole and a specialty cocktail. The tacos and hanger steak are also excellent.
Highlights:
Perched above the central Garden Courtyard, Greenfinch Restaurant & Bar offers a whimsical, aviary-inspired setting. It’s a favorite for breakfast, brunch, and lunch classics with a creative twist.
The Greenfinch Bar transforms into a botanical speakeasy with colorful craft cocktails and small bites in the evening with an evolving menu of cocktails inspired by the garden.
Highlights:
The Trading Post Café & Bar is located near the lobby, perfect for grab-and-go items, artisanal coffee, or an evening cocktail. Live music and cozy fireplaces create a warm, inviting atmosphere for socializing.
Highlights:
The Palma Bar & Grill is the perfect place to unwind after a sun-soaked day. Blending hacienda-inspired design with coastal charm, this poolside venue offers a curated menu of craft cocktails and delectable bites, all served in an effortlessly stylish setting.
Cabanas are available for private rentals. They feature plush lounge chairs, TVs, chilled towels, and access to the full menu.
Highlights:
The room service menu is reasonably priced, in my opinion, for a hotel like this. It’s currently available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Outdoor Swimming Pool With Cabanas
The heated outdoor saltwater pool lined with lounge chairs and cabanas is a hotel highlight. They’ve added a lot more pool seating, and while it can be busy, it’s a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
The pool area can be busy, but it’s a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. There is no lifeguard on duty, and diving is not allowed. There weren’t too many seats out of the sun in the late afternoon during our last visit (most were taken already).
You need a key to access the pool area. The spa offers a rental service for totally shaded cabanas and day beds (both with refrigerators stocked with nonalcoholic beverages).
You can order food and drinks from the poolside bar, which also has a ton of its own seating and relax in the whirlpool hot tub.
The Spa at Estancia La Jolla
Speaking of relaxation, take some time to book a treatment in the 7000-square-foot Spa at Estancia. I personally think it is one of the best full-service spas in town. Nine treatment rooms include a couples bungalow with an outdoor soaking tub.
Over the years, I’ve enjoyed plenty of manicures, pedicures, and massages. Expect to pay hotel spa prices, but know that they do have indoor and outdoor lounging facilities with a eucalyptus steam room, saltwater whirlpools, and a meditation garden, so you can make a day of it.
If you’re coming to the hotel for a spa day, parking and WiFi are free. The fitness facility includes cardio equipment, a stretching area, and weights. Private yoga and meditation classes can be arranged, but guests can attend weekend outdoor yoga on Saturdays at 10 a.m.
Estancia La Jolla Day Passes
Yes, you can enjoy a relaxing daycation at Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa, with access to many of the amenities overnight guests enjoy — no room reservation required.
Day passes can be purchased through ResortPass or directly with this La Jolla spa. Options include:
Onsite Activities
Take advantage of the Garden Games Library, which offers take-home games like Twister and Clue to play in the resort gardens. Make it extra festive by including a bottle of wine and snacks. The hotel also offers electric bike rentals.
Pet Amenities
Estancia La Jolla welcomes pets without breed or weight restrictions.
It’s one of my favorite pet-friendly hotels just because it’s easy and no more than three stories tall. Its multiple buildings are surrounded by grass and landscaping. You can read the full pet policy, but it’s one of the most lenient in town, and a one-time fee applies.
Impressive Water-Wise Landscaping
Every time I visit Estancia La Jolla, I am motivated to work on my yard. The hotel’s gardens and containers feature an amazing combination of succulents, California natives, tropical plants, citrus trees, and seasonal flowers.
If you’re looking for garden inspiration, stop by for a drink and a walk through the lovely paths, passing adobe fireplaces along the way.
I like the mixture of colors and textures and that the grassy areas are not off-limits, which is one reason why it can be a good hotel for pets and kids. It’s also a lovely place to take photos in La Jolla.
These gardens set amid the pretty Spanish-style architecture are another reason why Estancia La Jolla is a popular wedding venue. If a wedding is happening during your stay, the hotel will feel busiest as guests enjoy the dining outlets and gardens.
Make Reservations with Our Benefits
Ready to book your next getaway?
Estancia La Jolla is part of Noble House, and we can offer you Noble Select benefits that include:
Final Thoughts
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa is a peaceful escape that combines hacienda charm with modern amenities. From relaxing spa treatments and poolside cabanas to delicious Baja-inspired dining, this retreat offers something for everyone.
Whether planning a staycation, visiting UCSD, or craving a luxurious daycation, Estancia delivers.