Indeed, golfers are in their element at the
famed Torrey Pines course, tucked next to the
809-hectare Torrey Pines State Natural
Reserve. Even novice hikers can explore
nearly 13 kilometres of trails with spectacular
views of the ocean. The AAA Five-Diamond
Lodge at Torrey Pines, designed in true
southern California craftsman style, is a des-
tination unto itself. Its restaurant, A.R.
Valentien, is a must-do, with farm-to-table
dining experiences highlighting local
growers and ranchers.
GOURMET DINING
However, dining in the Marine Room in the
La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club is worth a trip
to La Jolla on its own. It features an unbe-
lievable on-the-sand location from which to
watch the tide come in as waves crash
against the windows. It's no surprise the
restaurant plays host to many marriage pro-
posals as the stunning location simply
cannot be beat and the dinner is to die for.
Tender lobster tail, veal tenderloin and osso
buco complement crab cakes and wild
prawns on the robust, inspired menu.
For a more low-key meal with a view, head
to George's at the Cove for a panoramic vista
on an open-air patio and a menu listing fresh,
local ingredients and innovative cocktails.
Even casual breakfast options turn it
up a notch with local favourites such as
Brockton Villa and its famous "coast toast"
French toast with an orange twist. Over-
looking La Jolla Cove and housed in one of
the area's first beach cottages built in 1894
(complete with an original abalone shell
fireplace), visitors get a sense of why the
La Jolla Historical Society works so hard
to preserve these architectural treasures and
ensure La Jolla remains the jewel that it
is today.
DS
