I was pleasantly surprised by my last visit to learn that although many seals still occupy the water and beach in Children's Pool, the restrictions have been lifted & kids (and families) are officially allowed back on the beach & in the water at children's pool!!!
My kids had an AWESOME time watching the up close seals, splashing in the water and playing in the sand.
It is a bit smelly here, so we often go down the stairs next to the sea wall to visit the beach on the opposite side where less people, seals & smell make it the most quiet, beautiful and peaceful place to play.
It is a beautiful coastline. In day time we could enjoy the scenery and of course the seal. Watch out for the smell, and remember do not allow your kids go near them. wild seal have bacteria all over them. sunset is beautiful, but at night especially full moon is when we like it the most. This is the time when more seals are on the beach. the moon shine like a big flashlight and we saw a very calm ocean. the other best time to visit is grunion runs at march all through august. the method is captured by hand only and no holes to trap them. Only for above 16 years old and must have a California fishing license. Don't forget also when squid spawning around the same time, rent a boat and you don't have to go far from the coast. Prepare a couple prawns or bigger shrimps as baits, nets, and voila!! you looks like you've been fishing squid for ages.
This is the BEST place to watch the seals. Park in one of the side streets off the beach & save yourself some stress. You can walk down really close to the seals for some great phtos. Also, the adjacent beaches have some fantastic shell hunting. The photo ops are abundant and this is a fun, free activity for the family. Plenty of room for beachside activities & surprisingly few crowds.
This LaJolla hot spot has been taken over by the seals, kids are no longer allowed to swim here. The seals are protected and so is this spot so it is not exactly what the name makes it out to be but....there is a great pier/jetty here to walk out on an see the seals and nearby there are some great shopping and food.
I just wanted to warn you all the name on this attraction can be deceiving but a great stop nonetheless.
The name Children's Pool is now a misnomer. It used to be an area for kids to swim, but has been overtaken by loads of seals. I'm ok with that, but a lot of people aren't so there's a constant legal battle regarding whether or not to move the seals. Therefore, who knows how long the seals will actually be there. But they are there now, and are quite a sight. Definitely bring your camera. The view is spectacular too.
Parking can be a little bit of a hassle during peak hours like weekends and summer time, so you should tack this activity on to whatever you're already planning on doing in downtown La Jolla, if you're driving in.
You could check out the seals and then take your kids to La Jolla Cove for a little beach time. All of this is walking distance from downtown La Jolla where there are tons of restaurants.