With its perfect year-round climate, sandy beaches and a dynamic downtown area, La Jolla has a lot to offer visitors. With fewer than 50,000 residents, La Jolla is a small community, but has recently attempted to assert its independence from neighboring San Diego, to which it technically belongs. While most people come to La Jolla for its beaches, it also possesses prestigious educational institutions, museums, golf courses, and a vibrant downtown area with art galleries, outdoor restaurants, and world-class shopping. Come for a quick walk on the beach and you may find yourself yearning to stay a while.