We are Sam + Bryt, wife and wife elopement photographers, business educators, and LGBTQ+ activitists! We are so freaking excited that you are here!
If you are ready to go on an adventure, feel empowered, or learn how to level up your business, we are your girls! So.. what are you waiting for? Let's do this thing!
This is the story of Mica and Nikki and their La Jolla California Couples Session… you’re gonna wanna keep reading to learn all things La Jolla, all things about California, and even a little bit of the epic love story that has Brough us here today about Mica and Nikki! Buckle up.
Now you may be saying… La Jolla? What in the heck is La Jolla?! And thats okay, because we were saying it too, ha!! “La Jolla” directly translates to “The Jewel” in Spanish.. soooo obviously Mica and Nikki were onto something when their planned their La Jolla California Couples Session! LOL. The Jewell sounds like a photo perfect spot to do photos… it’s also a tourist spot known for it’s seaside views and rugged coast. It’s a no brainer for adventure lovers too, because there are countless trails you can hike through and explore when you’re not beaching. Tons of species of fish, anemones, and crabs call this coast home. You can call it home for your La Jolla California Couples Session… if you wish. 😉
If you’re itching for a getaway, but don’t want to wander out of the United States, La Jolla is for you baby. Maybe you’re considering checking off some more states off your “been there” checklist, if so you need to consider La Jolla. Regardless of your reasoning, La Jolla is surely calling your name. With views like this and tons of adventure to be had, you will never be bored. San Diego is one of the numerous surrounding cities swell, so you can even hop on over there for a day or two if you find yourself needing a break from The Jewell, which we doubt you will, but options are options y’all!
Ohhhhhh yes, we have so many reasons why we are such huge fans of La Jolla after this La Jolla California Couples Session. First things first, the views. The views here are just something you cannot compare anywhere! The waves rush right up that coastline and sneak into the background of your photos, but we don’t mind!
The waves and the beach make quite the unique backdrop and honestly, that is what we are all about! Our couples are untie, we want to give them an experience (and photos!) just as unique. The hiking trails also offer stunning locations and provide a little bit of fun for our couples once shooting is over. A good hike a day keeps the doctor away! The numerous restaurants on the coast also provide just the BEST experience for our clients, and in the end, this is why we love it oh so much. Anything for our couples! UGH!
La Jolla is a hilly, oceanside neighborhood right near San Diego! WOW! It’s about 7 miles long and at the 2010 census, was marked with a population of over 40k people. On three of it’s sides, La Jolla is surrounded by ocean bluffs and beautiful beautiful beaches. Only a 12 mile from San Diego, you can easily head that way to explore for a day or two if you add onto your trip 😉 La Jolla is known for being home to many educational institutions, including University of California – San Diego, and many many many big business names. There is so much to do on this sweet little California coastal town!
Well since you’re here… on our blog… we are giving you our biased opinion, and that is SPRING! The flowers that bloom on this coastal town in the spring are like nothing we have ever seen before. Barely able to be described without photo evidence, the coast is breathtaking in spring months. Huge, flamboyant, purple and pink flowers bloom right on the land next to the water… the contrast between the deep blue ocean water, the tan sand, dark earth below, and these flowers is like an artwork next to none.
This is Cali, baby, so remember to pack like you’re on the west coast! This means shorts, t-shirts or tank tops, a nice sundress or two never hurt anybody. Let us please not forget to bring a ball cap or bucket hat to keep your head out of the hot sun, it can do more damage than ya think! Bring your favorite walking shoes, y’all, you will be walking! Sandals are something you’re gonna wanna bring as well, you don’t want to feel sand in your tennis shoes now do you?! Pack that bathing suit! DO IT! Get in the west coast water or else! Hahaha jk, but still, definitely pack that bathing suit. And finally, remember to pack for a date night! There are tons of fun places to try.
Black’s Beach! A secluded section of beach in La Jolla just for youuuuu. Hidden beneath the bluffs of Torrey Pines (type of tree!), this little find is officially part of Torrey Pines State Beach. How cool?! Now a far warning here… Black’s Beach is notorious for its status as San Diego’s only nude beach… though that’s no longer allowed in the more southern portion managed by the City of San Diego, you may still encounter some crazy stuff! Keep this in mind.
La Jolla Shores Beach! This babe is a 1-mile long stretch of beach! UGH! Perfect. We totally get it that not all of our readers or all of our clients are super adventurous, out there “nature people” and so we have to come in clutch with some easier and more accessible locations – this is one! This beach sits just south of the Village (what locals call downtown La Jolla!). This beach is perfect for families with small kids, surfers, and kayakers.
La Jolla Cove Beach! Another beach named after La Jolla, so you know these have to be good! 😉 Some may argue that this is what this little seaside town is known for. The Cove remains protected as part of the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve, which means it’s home to an INSANE variety of marine life! For this reason, you may encounter lots of snorkelers, swimmers and scuba divers as it is incredibly popular among them.
Go kayaking! “Get a new perspective on the gorgeous La Jolla coastline on a sea caves kayak tour. No gear or experience is needed to paddle along the coast with a guide, exploring sea caves and rock formations while looking for marine life such as sea lions, dolphins, and even orcas.”
Take a scenic tour! “See more of San Diego and its surroundings with the ease of a half-day tour that provides a comprehensive overview of the beachside city. Cover more ground with a local guide who takes you to destinations including the beaches of La Jolla, Mt Soledad, Coronado Island, Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, and Old Town San Diego. Hear live commentary about this southern Californian city along the way.”
Go to the slot canyons! “Explore the slot canyons in Torrey Pines on this guided tour. Discover spectacular, hard-to-reach areas and take in views of the Pacific Ocean. Visit sandstone slot canyons and wind caves on the trek and stop at a majestic grotto with a waterfall. The hike up can be strenuous at times, but you will be rewarded with stunning views after summiting the cliffs.”
Learn to surf! “An easy beach break with regular, predictable waves that don’t get too big, La Jolla Shores is one of California’s best destinations for learning to surf. Join an experienced instructor and no more than four other learners on a class that’s good for absolute beginners and intermediates alike. Your class includes your board and an Everyday California rash guard top, with full wetsuits available at an additional charge.”
Go on a snorkeling adventure! “We’re proud to have an out-going team of seasoned guides who spend their lives around the ocean! We also offer quality dive gear and the use of wetsuits to keep you comfortable in our Pacific Ocean!”
If anything from pizza to tuna salad sandwiches… to huevos rancheros and lemon pancakes spark your interest, you’re gonna wanna stop by the Barbarella Restaurant and Bar. The menu has never ending options of food and drinks. The reviews are in – they’re raving!
A crown “jewel” (hahaha) of La Jolla, the Marine Room is highly talked about and well recommended! Executive chef Mike Minor is running a smooth floating ship after the retirement of local legend Bernard Guillas. The Marine Room’s menu has been refereed with dishes that reflect his passion for regional Mexican cuisine.
NINE-TEN restaurant and bar had us just because their name is super unique, hahaha! We told you, we are all about places/people/things that stand out. This longstanding local fan favorite comes in hot with some real fine dining from executive chef Jason Knibb. His signature Jamaican jerk pork belly and his take on the Italian classic caccio e pepe are some menu items you DO NOT want to skim over.
We are HUGE airbnb advocates, and we mean huge. SO, today, we are coming at you with our favorite airbnb stays in La Jolla.
In the highly desired heart of the Village, on a Historical site, you’ll find The Secret Jewell. Stroll to the coastline within minutes, watch magnificent sunsets, explore art galleries, fine cuisine, boutique shops, or simply relax in the magic of the secret garden. Custom designed with charming touches and walkable to everything La Jolla has to offer.
Look out at the Pacific Ocean over Whale View Point, La Jolla Tide Pools, & Cuvier Park in this upstairs 1 Bedroom /1 Bathroom unit in one of the best locations that San Diego & La Jolla has to offer.
Enjoy a tranquil weekend getaway or a picturesque family beach vacation from this exquisite 1 king bedroom, 1 bath Seaview Treehouse Sanctuary in La Jolla village! Unwind and soak up the breathtaking ocean view on the private deck and balcony. Take an evening stroll into the heart of La Jolla or take advantage of the private kitchen and enjoy a cozy night in.
Redwood cottage is 3 blocks walking distance to beautiful La Jolla Shores beach. Large serene back yard with patio, hot tub, outdoor shower and beautiful plants and trees. Near shopping and restaurants but a quiet setting.
This Stylish Cottage is prestigious clean and tidy as well as functional; We are located in the heart of LJ Village close to all things you need for your vacation 0.6 miles walking distance to the beach, 1/2 block to Vons supermarket, a street off Girard Ave, corner of Pearl St. easy access to shops and arrays of restaurants, Sunday Farmer market; walking distance to La Jolla Cove & tidy pool.
Mica and Nikki met at a Gay bar right before Nikki was set to move to Barcelona the following Monday. Mica, who was already obsessed with Barcelona immediately was like 😱. Nikki was like, “well you should meet me there.” A day later, Mica bought her ticket to Spain and the rest is history.
AND BOOM! There y’all have it.. the extravagant story of Mica and Nikki… everything you need to know about “the jewel” or La Jolla… and even some fun places to stay and eat there! What more could you ask for?! Thank you all sooooo so much for coming back to our blog again and again, if you want to reach out and plan your own La Jolla California Couples Session… here is where you can reach us 😉
XOXO
Sam + Bryt