Sunny Jim's cave is the only La Jolla cave that is accessible by land via a hand-dug tunnel leading down from the historical landmark, the Cave Store. The cave was given this name "Sunny Jim" by Frank Baum, the author of The Wizard of Oz . Baum gave the cave this unique name because the shape of the cave's opening resembled a cartoon mascot for British Force Wheat Cereal in the 1920's. The profile of this cereal character matched that of the cave opening.

The cave was given the unique name of Sunny Jim's because the shape of the cave's opening resembled a cartoon mascot for British Force Wheat Cereal in the 1920's. The profile of this cereal character matched that of the cave opening, which can only be seen as a silhouette from inside the cave Store. We visit the inside of this cave towards the end of our La Jolla Freefall bike tour.

Once used to smuggle Chinese immigrants and contraband Whisky during Prohibition, this historical landmark is a famous spot for out-of-town visitors. No appointments are necessary; however, hours of operation do change based on day light, and season, so be sure to call before visiting. Or you can join one of our bike tours or kayak tours that leave daily, reservations are required.