Immerse Yourself in La Jolla’s Art Destinations

Get a glimpse of La Jolla’s vibrant art scene, where creativity thrives against the backdrop of stunning coastal views.

In the early 20th century, painters and creatives from across Southern California came to La Jolla, inspired by its dramatic coastline and golden light. Soon after, the La Jolla Art Association was founded, and the neighborhood became a bona fide artist’s colony.

Today, the La Jolla art scene remains vibrant and respected, anchored by a mix of contemporary museums, long-standing studios, and local events. The following spots are all excellent places to begin your exploration.

1. Athenaeum Music & Arts Library

   Founded in 1899, the Athenaeum is both a library and a cultural venue. It hosts concerts, lectures, and even classes in art and literature. This rare cultural institution is one of the three nonprofit membership libraries remaining in the U.S. — and one of the three west of the Mississippi.

   The Athenaeum also curates the Murals of La Jolla, a series of large-scale public artworks throughout the neighborhood. The library hosts a free guided walking tour every month, or you can download a map for a self-guided experience.

2. Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD)

   MCASD features rotating exhibitions from both emerging and established artists. Its collection— more than 4,700 works created after 1950— spans a range of media, movements, and voices. Step into the seaside Edwards Sculpture Garden (open until June 1, 2025) or take in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean from the museum’s galleries and terraces.

3. La Jolla Art & Wine Festival

   Every October, the Jolla Art & Wine Festival brings together art lovers, collectors, and the community to Girard Avenue to celebrate artistic talent. Visitors can browse a range of fine art while enjoying live music and gourmet bites from local vendors. It’s easily one of San Diego’s most anticipated cultural events.

   Now in its 17th year, the 2025 festival will be held on October 11 and 12. It’s expected to showcase over 160 juried artists from across the U.S. and Mexico. Best of all, the festival remains free to the public.

4. La Jolla Cove

   Framed by sandstone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, La Jolla Cove is one of the most iconic— and photographed— spots along the California coast. Its protected marine reserve also offers some of the best snorkeling and diving in San Diego.

   While not an art destination in the traditional sense, La Jolla Cove’s beauty has inspired generations of artists. Boston-born watercolorist Mary Helmreich and contemporary painter Erin Hanson — a pioneer of the open impressionism movement— are just two who have captured the cove’s natural beauty on canvas.

5. Mandeville Art Gallery

   Located on the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) campus, the Mandeville Art Gallery is a must-visit destination for art lovers. The gallery hosts transformative contemporary works, original solo and group exhibitions, and various art events. Unique among art galleries in La Jolla, it stands out for its nearly six-decade history of presenting innovative art in the context of a major research university.

READY TO MAKE LA JOLLA YOUR HOME?

With its vibrant art scene, coastal beauty, and strong sense of community, La Jolla offers a lifestyle that’s as inspiring as it is enriching.

To explore homes in this lovely neighborhood, contact our team at RE/MAX Coastal or call us at 619.296.1000. You can also learn more about San Diego’s neighborhoods here.