The Children's Pool in La Jolla

Prominent among the splendid facilities donated to La Jolla by Ellen Browning Scripps is a safe, shallow wading pool on an ample, crescent-shaped beach. While waves pound the cliffs and coves, bathers can swim and play in this quiet cove just around the point. A favorite haven for families with toddlers, the pool is protected by the Pacific surf and winds by a reinforced concrete breakwater that curves seaward for 300 feet from a bluff at the edge of the ocean to a natural low barrier reef. Access to the pool is provided by a reinforced stairway from the top of the bluff down to the sandy beach.

In 1923 Ellen Browning Scripps commissioned a report from engineer Hiram Newton Savage on the feasibility, practicability and estimated cost of a bathing pool in La Jolla. His report contained details on a number of the world's most important breakwaters and summarized his studies of these structures. From these surveys, detailed plans and sectional drawings were prepared. The location of the structure was carefully considered relative to its purpose, foundation conditions, topography and economy of design. Invitations to bid were sent to contractors experienced in marine work, and the job was eventually awarded to W.M. Ledbetter & Company of Los Angeles. At a total cost of $67,000, the pool was dedicated to the advancement of the health and happiness of La Jolla's children in June 1931. Since then it has been enjoyed daily by children of residents and visitors alike. The rolled walkway along the top of the breakwater is an ideal spot to hear and feel the mist of the roaring waves as they hit the jetty.