Supposedly named after the word “jewel” (”la joya”) in Spanish, or a corruption of a pirate’s “Ahoy,” La Jolla is most likely “La Jolla” after the Native American word “Woholle,” which translates into “hole in the mountain,” a reference to the caves in the cliffs next to La Jolla Cove Park.

True or not, all these origins of La Jolla’s name point at the surfside resort community’s culture: technically part of San Diego, it shares in the city’s Spanish origins; a Mediterranean climate and vibe make La Jolla seem a southern Euro treasure; and its dramatic coastline of caves, cliffs, and canyons gives off rugged island glamour.

As gorgeously rough as La Jolla’s landscape is, its downtown is posh: upscale boutiques and famed restaurants make Prospect St. and Girard Ave. feel a touch Beverly Hills, La Valencia Hotel was a movie star fav during the silent film era, and PGA TOUR Buick Invitational is hosted by Torrey Pines Golf Course.

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