In 1949, the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club caught the eye of San Diego Magazine, who noted it was “one of the nation’s most exclusive private beach clubs.” The iconic property, founded in 1927, was by then a local landmark that had already been reimagined as a renowned tennis destination. Over the years, the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club has undergone multiple renovations to complement its classic vibe, with the most recent—a $60 million refresh aligned with its 90th anniversary—currently in progress. If only those writers could see it now.
The fifth-generation, family-owned resort recently completed phase one of its ambitious plan to refine the guest and member experience while preserving the property’s classic coastal charm.
“As a family-owned and operated company for generations, we see these renovations as an investment in the future of the Club. Each phase is approached with great care to ensure the property continues to evolve while maintaining the sense of place that makes it so meaningful to our community,” says La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club President William Kellogg.
One of the most visible components of the first phase was an overhaul of the club’s pool deck. The umbrellas have been upgraded to a vibrant yellow and white striped pattern that’s perfect for the San Diego sunshine, plus more seating, family lounges, and luxe private cabanas have been added. And poolgoers can look forward to elevated eats: the club has installed a wood-fired Marra Forni pizza oven that both serves up premium pies and serves as a poolside social hub.
The 14-acre destination on the sands of La Jolla Shores has also revitalized outdoor gathering spaces, resurfaced tennis courts, and transformed the Club Dining Room with floor-to-ceiling oceanfront views and a new menu that highlights locally sourced ingredients and fresh seafood. Additionally, a new Club Market offers guests grab-and-go meals, artisan snacks, fresh-baked breads, premium meats, and a curated selection of wines and local craft beers.
“Completing the first phase of this renovation was an important step in the Club’s long history, and we’re excited to continue that investment with phase two beginning this fall. Our focus is on honoring the traditions that have defined the property for nearly a century while thoughtfully enhancing the experience for guests,” says Michael O’Donohue, La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club’s Managing Director.
The upcoming phase two of the renovations intends to continue the club’s long-term investment to ensure it and its sister property, the La Jolla Shores Hotel, remain premier coastal destinations for members, guests, and visiting families. Building on the completed enhancements, phase two will include updates to guest accommodations at the resort’s 90-room Beach Club. Guest rooms will get updated interiors and modern touches that artfully blend contemporary and classic.
At the 128-room beachfront La Jolla Shores Hotel, shared guest spaces, including the pool and outdoor gathering areas, will get a facelift, and its meeting spaces will get a welcome reset.
“The Club has always been about creating a place where generations come together to enjoy the beauty of La Jolla. As we move into the next phase of renovations, we’re excited to continue enhancing both the Beach Club and the La Jolla Shores Hotel so families can keep creating memories for years to come,” says Kellogg.
