Tourist Family Removed from La Jolla Cove for Harassing Sea Lions

Authorities warn visitors not to approach or disturb the protected marine mammals.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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A family visiting from China was evicted from La Jolla Cove in San Diego after they were seen harassing the sea lions on the beach. A park ranger confronted the mother and ordered the family to leave the area, warning them that harassing the sea lions is a federal offense under the Marine Mammal Protection Act that can result in severe penalties.

Why it matters

Protecting the sea lions at La Jolla Cove is an ongoing challenge for park rangers, as the popular tourist destination attracts many visitors who may not be aware of the laws prohibiting disturbing the marine mammals. This incident highlights the need for continued education and enforcement to ensure the safety and well-being of the sea lions.

The details

According to eyewitness Jim Grant, the children in the family were seen throwing sand and rocks at the sea lions. When a park ranger confronted the mother, he asked her if they also throw dirt at animals in China. The family was not given a citation but was ordered to leave the Cove.

  • On Sunday, February 23, 2026, the incident occurred at La Jolla Cove.

The players

Jim Grant

A San Diego photographer who witnessed the incident and captured video of the park ranger confronting the family.

Park Ranger

The park ranger who confronted the family and ordered them to leave the Cove.

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What they’re saying

“He [the park ranger] was giving a really stern warning to a couple of kids about throwing things. Finally he told the mother to come up from the beach and to the top of the stairs.”

— Jim Grant, Photographer (nbcsandiego.com)

“In China do you throw dirt at the animals, too?”

— Park Ranger (nbcsandiego.com)

What’s next

Park rangers will continue to monitor the Cove and enforce the laws protecting the sea lions, including issuing citations and fines to visitors who harass the marine mammals.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder that the La Jolla Cove is not a petting zoo, and visitors must respect the laws and regulations in place to protect the sea lions and other wildlife in the area. Continued education and enforcement will be crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of these protected animals.