San Diego’s Best Secret Gift Shop
Like other areas of San Diego, La Jolla has a plethora of stores – but there’s one very special place in our community that I’m afraid you might overlook: The St. James Gift Shop, located in La Jolla’s cultural district, under the bell tower of St. James by-the-Sea Episcopal Church, 743 Prospect Street (858-456-1105). This is easily San Diego’s best secret gift shop.
This darling little spot displays museum quality art, jewelry, paintings and prints from around the world and sells them at affordable prices. Most of their colorful handcrafted folk art is purchased directly from the artists. The mission of the church is to make the non-profit shop a place for artists worldwide to showcase their work.
On display during the holiday season are nativities, angels, ornaments from around the world, Advent calendars, Christmas stockings, and candles to “bless the season of light.”
If you’re still looking for gifts, check out their books, children’s toys, leather goods, Oaxacan wood carvings, dinnerware, textiles, and clothing.
Normal hours of San Diego’s best secret gift shop are Monday – Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Holiday Hours are 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily. On “Champagne Thursdays,” they stay open until 8:00 p.m.
Lunch across the street at The Museum Café and a browse through this shop are the perfect pairing for an afternoon of fun in La Jolla.
Photo: ADAMS / HANSEN STOCK PHOTOS
Category: Insider Tips, stores and galleries
About the Author (Author Profile)
I live in La Jolla and I'm a travel writer, so in addition to enjoying my home town's great weather, beautiful surroundings, and range of cultural and recreational options, I also see La Jolla - and the rest of San Diego - as a travel destination. And what I see sometimes drives me batty. People vacation in La Jolla, but don't take advantage of everything our community offers, so I decided to start this blog and provide insider advice for out-of-towners. Hey. I figure if I can write insider tips about exotic destinations on Authentic Luxury Travel, I ought to be able to lead readers off the beaten path that starts just outside my front door. In the process, I'm having fun revisiting my favorite places and discovering some new ones. Travel writers are naturally snoopy, and this blog is my excuse to have a good ol' sticky beak around my home town. I hope you find it helpful. If you are coming to La Jolla or another area of San Diego and would like my help in planning your trip, please read "Need Help Planning Your Trip" and then email me at ehansen298@aol.com. Elizabeth HansenSubscribe
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