Windandsea Beach in La Jolla

It could be argued that beaches have made La Jolla the tourist mecca that it is. Thousands swarm each year to swim in warm ocean waters and bask in the summer sun. Perhaps it is at Windandsea where the greatest number of local sun worshippers and surfers congregate year-round to enjoy the pleasures of coastal life. During low tides, secret carpets of snowy sand are exposed for sunbathers.

For generations of daring La Jolla residents, Windandsea has tested their skill and endurance against the challenge of waves. Tossed high by an undersea reef, the consistency of waves made suitable for surfing have made Windandsea the big league of local board riders. Made strong by body surfing and paddling from an early age, tireless young athletes of the Windandsea Surf Team continue to compete successfully at national and world-class levels. Windandsea is home and training ground for these world champions who hold unparalleled records. But riptides and unpredictable currents of Windandsea often prove too challenging for many young or inexperienced swimmers. As an alternative, beachgoers can wait for low tide when the wonders of marine life are trapped in Windandsea's southernmost tide pools to observe starfish, urchins, hermit crabs, tiny fish, sea hares and countless other fauna.

In addition, Windandsea has been immortalized as the scene of legendary parties, several Hollywood movies, novels and songs.