How to Say “La Jolla” Like a Local (and Other Tricky San Diego Place Names)

San Diego, California, is a city of stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and a rich history deeply rooted in its Spanish heritage. But for visitors and newcomers, this beautiful blend often comes with a linguistic challenge: how to pronounce its many Spanish-origin place names. Chief among these is the picturesque coastal community of La Jolla.

Mispronouncing local place names can be a common traveler’s blunder, sometimes leading to confusion or an unintended chuckle from locals. But don’t worry! This guide will not only help you master “La Jolla” but also tackle some other tricky spots around America’s Finest City, so you can blend in and show respect for its unique cultural identity.

Mastering “La Jolla”: The Jewel of San Diego

Let’s start with the big one: La Jolla. It’s renowned for its breathtaking coves, world-class dining, and stunning ocean views. But how do you actually say it?

The Authentic Pronunciation: Lah HOY-yah

Phonetic Breakdown:

• Lah: Rhymes with “ahh” or “bra.”
• HOY: Rhymes with “toy” or “boy.”
• yah: Rhymes with “spa” or “ahh.”

The key is the “J,” which in Spanish sounds like an English “H.” And the “LL” combination typically makes a “Y” sound, although in some Spanish dialects, it can be closer to a “J” sound or even “SH.” For San Diego’s “La Jolla,” stick with the “Y” sound.

Context and Cultural Significance:

“La Jolla” means “the jewel” in Spanish, a perfectly fitting description for this sparkling coastal gem. Its name is believed to have originated from the Spanish word joya (jewel). While some local legends suggest it comes from the Kumeyaay word woholla (meaning “hole in the mountains” or “caves”) referring to its sea caves, the “jewel” interpretation is widely accepted and certainly lives up to the area’s beauty.

Common Mistakes:

Outsiders often make these errors:

• “Lah JOLL-uh”: Treating the “J” like an English “J” sound.
• “Lah LIE-yah”: Misinterpreting the “LL” as a simple “L” or “LI.”

Beyond La Jolla: Other Tricky San Diego Spot Names

Once you’ve got La Jolla down, here are a few other common San Diego area place names that often trip up non-locals:

Rancho Peñasquitos

This residential community in North County San Diego is a mouthful for many!

The Authentic Pronunciation: Ran-choh Pen-yah-SKEE-tos

• Key: The “ñ” (eñe) makes a “ny” sound, as in “canyon.” The “qu” makes a “k” sound.
• Context: Meaning “little cliffs” or “little rocks,” it’s named after the historic Rancho de los Peñasquitos, one of the first Mexican land grants in California. Locals often shorten it to “PQ” to save a syllable!

El Cajon

East of San Diego, this city’s name is another Spanish staple.

The Authentic Pronunciation: El Kah-HONE

• Key: Again, the “J” takes on an “H” sound. The emphasis is on the second syllable of “Cajon.”
• Context: Meaning “the box” or “the drawer,” referring to the valley in which it sits, surrounded by mountains.

Coronado

Home to the iconic Hotel del Coronado, this island city is a popular destination.

The Authentic Pronunciation: Core-uh-NAH-doh

• Key: The subtle difference here is the “AH” sound in the middle, rather than an “AY” or “OH” that some might instinctively use.
• Context: Spanish for “crowned,” the name likely refers to the nearby Coronado Islands, or perhaps even to the shape of the peninsula itself.

Jamul

A smaller community located in the foothills of eastern San Diego County, this name is a curveball.

The Authentic Pronunciation: Hah-MOOL or Ha-MOOL

• Key: This is a great example of a name where the spelling completely betrays the pronunciation. The “J” is a soft “H” sound, and the “a” is often a subtle “uh” or “ah.”
• Context: The name comes from the Kumeyaay word Ha-moor, believed to refer to a sweet water spring.

Bonita

Just south of Chula Vista, this charming area’s name is often misspoken.

The Authentic Pronunciation: Boh-NEE-tah

• Key: The emphasis is firmly on the “NEE” syllable.
• Context: Meaning “pretty” or “beautiful” in Spanish, a lovely name for a lovely place!

A Note on Cultural Respect:

When learning Indigenous or culturally significant words, it’s not just about getting the sound right—it’s about respect. For Spanish place names in California, understanding their meaning connects you to centuries of history. For Indigenous terms like Jamul, it acknowledges the land’s original inhabitants and their enduring legacy. Always strive for accuracy and approach these names with an open mind and a respectful attitude.

Conclusion: Listen, Learn, and Speak Like a Local!

San Diego’s unique blend of cultures is part of what makes it such a special place, and its place names tell a significant part of that story. By taking the time to learn the authentic pronunciations of “La Jolla,” “Rancho Peñasquitos,” “El Cajon,” and others, you’re not just avoiding a linguistic faux pas—you’re engaging with the local culture and showing genuine appreciation.

So, go ahead and confidently say Lah HOY-yah on your next visit! Listen to how locals speak, practice, and soon you’ll be navigating San Diego’s linguistic landscape like a true native. What other San Diego names have you struggled with? Let us know in the comments below!