Step Inside La Jolla’s Hidden Oasis at the Annual Secret Garden Tour

There’s something extra special about getting a peek behind the gates in La Jolla. The Secret Garden Tour is back for its 27th year, offering rare access to six extraordinary private gardens across the neighborhood – and it’s easily one of spring’s most charming traditions.

Hosted by the La Jolla Historical Society, this beloved event blends breathtaking landscapes with art, music, and thoughtful design, all while supporting free exhibitions and educational programs throughout the year.

Guests Exploring the Secret Garden Tour of La Jolla

Six Private Gardens, One Beautiful Day

The garden locations stay under wraps until the day of the tour, adding a little intrigue to the experience. What we do know? Expect spectacular properties with stunning views and distinct character, each one transformed with live musicians, plein air artists, and inspired tabletop designs.

It’s not just a walk-through garden tour. It’s immersive, creative, and distinctly La Jolla.

A Garden Tour, Your Way

This year introduces a refreshed format that makes it easy to curate your own experience. The tour is self-guided and self-driving, so you can explore at your own pace and choose the order that fits your day.

Looking to elevate it even more? Two optional upgrades let you customize your outing:

  • Lunch + Learn – Enjoy a buffet lunch at a historic site followed by an engaging session with a Master Gardener.
  • Bonus Garden Ticket – Unlock access to an additional, truly exceptional private garden with limited capacity.

It’s a thoughtful update that gives you more freedom while keeping the magic of discovery intact.

Don’t Miss the Secret Garden Boutique

A longtime favorite is the Secret Garden Boutique at Wisteria Cottage, open to the public throughout the day. Browse gardening accessories, plants, artisan goods, and unique gifts, bid on one-of-a-kind experiences in the silent auction, and enjoy locally sourced fare.

While you’re there, step inside the museum space to explore Space Maker, the current exhibition featuring the work of 20 local artists, designers, and architects.

A Spring Tradition With Purpose

For nearly three decades, the Secret Garden Tour has brought the community together in support of the La Jolla Historical Society’s mission to celebrate the region’s history and culture. It’s a beautiful way to spend a spring day while giving back to one of La Jolla’s most meaningful institutions.

Tickets are expected to sell out, so planning ahead is a good idea.

See you there!

We’ll be wandering garden paths, soaking up live music, and making a full spring day of it in La Jolla. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind neighborhood tradition.

📆 Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 10 AM – 4 PM
📍 7846 Eads Ave, La Jolla
🎟️ Get tickets here
ℹ️ Visit their website here for more updates

See you there, San Diego!

Share This Event
Event Details
  • Start Date
    May 16, 2026 10:00 am
  • End Date
    May 16, 2026 4:00 pm
  • Status
    All done
  • Location
  • Venue
    • La Jolla Historical Society
  • Address
    7846 Eads Ave, La Jolla, CA
  • Tickets
Event Map
The Latest
Pacific Beach Fest
Join the excitement at Pacific Beachfest! Enjoy live music, food contests, and craft booths along the sand for ten amazing hours.
The quartet on stage at Art of Tango The Conrad
CAMARADA, a resident company at The Conrad, is back with The Art of Tango III, an evening that pulls you into tango’s world through music,...
A festive fall scene at the Pumpkin & Marigold Harvest Festival
Fall is officially in the air, and Mellano Farm Stand is celebrating with six straight weekends of autumn charm, colorful blooms, and family fun. Between...
Top of the Hyatt
Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Masquerade After Dark at the Top of the Hyatt, featuring cocktails and sushi with a twist.
Bivouac Ciderworks
The Craving is ThereSanDiego's weekly guide to what's worth eating and drinking in San Diego right now. Every Tuesday, we surface new restaurant openings, standout happy hours, limited-time menu specials, and upcoming food events across the city - so you know what's happening before everyone else does.
Camarada
Experience the SDMA Poetics of the Arrabal with breathtaking performances by the Camarada Tango Quartet and Tijuana's finest.
Event Details
  • Start Date
    May 16, 2026 10:00 am
  • End Date
    May 16, 2026 4:00 pm
  • Status
    All done
  • Location
  • Venue
    • La Jolla Historical Society
  • Address
    7846 Eads Ave, La Jolla, CA
  • Tickets
Upcoming Events
The quartet on stage at Art of Tango The Conrad
February 27, 2027
7:30 pm
  • The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
CAMARADA, a resident company at The Conrad, is back with The Art of Tango III, an evening that pulls you into tango’s world through music,...
MANIA The ABBA Tribute bringing the magic of ABBA to life at The Magnolia
February 10, 2027
7:30 pm
  • The Magnolia
If you’ve ever wanted to relive the magic of ABBA live on stage, MANIA: The ABBA Tribute is as close as it gets. The world’s...
Where Beauty Persists
January 23, 2027
7:30 pm
  • The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
Discover the intriguing world premiere of Where Beauty Persists the conrad featuring a dynamic flute and vibraphone collaboration.
Charlie Brown Jingles & Jazz Presented by Camarada, a Resident Company @ The Conrad
December 19, 2026
7:30 pm
  • The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
Discover a unique take on holiday music with Charlie Brown Jingles & Jazz at The Conrad, showcasing jazz and seasonal favorites.
A Magical Cirque Christmas
December 13, 2026
5:30 pm
Join us for a Magical Cirque Christmas oceanside, where stunning performances and holiday cheer create an unforgettable night.
Event Search: