Sunny Jim Cave Store: A Legacy of Adventure and History
Sunny Jim Cave Store, located in La Jolla, California, is an iconic landmark that has been a part of the neighborhood for over 100 years. Established in 1902, Sunny Jim Cave Store is the only sea cave accessible by land in the United States. The cave is named after a popular British children’s cereal character of the same name, and the store has become a popular attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world.
History of Sunny Jim Cave Store
Sunny Jim Cave Store has a long and storied history. It was first opened in 1902 by two brothers, Frank and George Anderson, who wanted to offer an adventure experience for visitors to the area. Soon after opening, Sunny Jim Cave Store quickly became a popular destination for adventurers and sightseers.
The cave was originally called “The Cave of the Seven Smokes” by the local Native American tribes and was said to be used by the Kumeyaay tribe for spiritual purposes. The Anderson brothers renamed it “Sunny Jim Cave” after the popular British children’s cereal character of the same name.
Sunny Jim Cave Store features a staircase carved into the rock that leads to a small cave below. The cave was originally used as a speakeasy during prohibition and later served as a storage space for the Anderson brothers’ fishing tackle.
Today, Sunny Jim Cave Store is a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike. The store offers a variety of souvenirs, including clothing, t-shirts, hats, postcards, and other memorabilia. Visitors can also purchase tickets for the guided tour of the cave.
Exploring Sunny Jim Cave Store
Sunny Jim Cave Store offers visitors the chance to explore the cave and learn about its fascinating history. The guided tour of the cave takes visitors through the winding passageways and reveals the many stories of the cave’s past.
The tour begins with a climb up the staircase carved into the rock. The tour guide will provide visitors with an overview of the cave’s history and point out interesting details along the way. Visitors can expect to learn about the cave’s Native American origins, its use as a speakeasy during prohibition, and its current status as a popular tourist destination.
At the end of the tour, visitors can explore the store and browse the souvenirs. The store offers a variety of clothing and memorabilia that commemorate the cave’s history. There are also postcards and other souvenirs available for purchase.
Visiting Sunny Jim Cave Store
Sunny Jim Cave Store is open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm. The cost of admission is $8 for adults and $6 for children. Tickets for the guided tour of the cave can be purchased at the store.
For those looking to make a day of it, the nearby La Jolla Cove offers a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to explore.
Conclusion
Sunny Jim Cave Store is a must-visit destination for those looking for an adventure in La Jolla. With its rich history, fascinating stories, and stunning views, Sunny Jim Cave Store is an iconic landmark that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore the cave, learn about its history, or just browse the souvenirs, Sunny Jim Cave Store is a must-visit destination in La Jolla.