Why Are Scripps Pier & LaJolla Beaches So Photogenic?
You've probably seen a photo or video of Ellen Browning Scripps Pier before. This is partially due to how old it is and how cool it looks. Since the early 1900's, this location was used for groundbreaking oceanography work that continues to this day. But what makes it such a great subject for photos?
1. Pacific Ocean Backdrop: Facing due west, pier and beach are ideal to take in the ocean beauty, along with a sunset. The pier's long, straight lines stretching out into the water, especially during sunrise or sunset, create a visually striking composition that photographers find appealing.
2. Iconic Landmark Look: Scripps Pier is an iconic structure that is widely recognized and associated with marine biology and helping to preserve the oceans. Its unique design, which includes the research facilities up and down the pier, adds to its distinctiveness and makes it a recognizable symbol.
3. Local Historical Significance: The pier has a rich history dating back to its construction in the early 20th century as one of the first dedicated oceanography research stations in California. The pier is still maintained today by contributions from local community leaders including the Browning-Scripps family.
4. Cultural Interest: Scripps Pier's distinctive appearance and location have led to its inclusion in various forms of media, such as films, television shows, and advertisements. This cultural exposure can spark interest in capturing the pier from a creative or artistic perspective.
Beaches Surrounding Scripps Pier In LaJolla
Scripps Pier is situated in La Jolla, California, a coastal community known for its beaches, sunsets, and ocean views. While you can't visit the pier itself, there are beaches on either side of the pier that you can visit. Both of these beaches are popular for wedding and event photos because they are so beautiful and offer a wide range of activities for guests.
1. La Jolla Shores Beach: This expansive sandy beach is located just south of Scripps Pier. La Jolla Shores is known for its gentle waves and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and playing beach volleyball. The beach also serves as a launch site for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling. La Jolla Shores is backed by a grassy park area, and it offers views of the pier and the surrounding coastline.
2. Black's Beach: To the north of Scripps Pier lies Black's Beach, which is renowned for its rugged beauty and status as a clothing-optional beach. The beach is set against towering cliffs and offers a more secluded and natural environment. While accessing Black's Beach involves a steep trail down the bluffs, the effort is rewarded with breathtaking ocean vistas and a sense of tranquility.
3. Children's Pool Beach: Located south of Scripps Pier, Children's Pool Beach (also known as Casa Beach) is a small, partially enclosed beach that was originally intended for families and children. Over time, it has become a favorite spot for sunbathing and observing harbor seals and sea lions, which often rest on the sand or rocky outcroppings.
Brief history of Scripps Pier Institution of Oceanography
· 1903: Scripps Institution of Oceanography is founded by William E. Ritter in La Jolla, California, as a small marine laboratory.
· 1915: Construction of Scripps Pier begins under the guidance of William Ritter and Roger Revelle, the institution's second director. The pier is designed to provide direct ocean access for scientific research.
· 1916: The original Scripps Pier, measuring 1,000 feet (305 meters) in length, is completed. It becomes a crucial tool for oceanographic research, allowing scientists to study ocean conditions and marine life more effectively.
· 1920s: An extension called the "Summer House" is added to the end of the pier. This addition provides additional space for laboratories and equipment, further enhancing the research capabilities of Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
· 1950s: Scipps postdoctoral researcher, Roger Revelle, became director of the institution in 1950 and led Scripps through a period of remarkable discovery with renewed focus from the National Sciences Foundation.
· Throughout the 20th Century: Scripps Pier is continuously used by researchers for a wide range of scientific studies, including ocean temperature measurements, marine biology research, atmospheric monitoring, and other oceanographic investigations.
· Ongoing Expansions and Modifications: Over the years, Scripps Pier undergoes several modifications and expansions to accommodate the evolving needs of oceanographic research
