Adventuring at Abalone Cove Shoreline Park

Abalone Cove Shoreline Park is a Palos Verdes gem. This 64-acre reserve is a state ecological preserve. There is something for everyone here, whether you want to relax and lay out or be adventurous and swim across channels to get to sea caves. The large parking area is very easy to find and costs $5 per car. Plan accordingly since it is only open from 12pm-4pm Monday through Friday and 9am-4pm on weekends. From the parking lot, head east towards the marked trails. To reach the beach, start with the Abalone Cove Trail until you reach the Beach School Trail. When you hit the junction, turn left and follow the trail until you arrive at the beach.

Once at the beach, head to the left and make your way over the rocks toward the bluff. In just about ¾ of a mile, you will reach the tide pools. Make sure you plan your trip around low tide to fully enjoy the tide pools and caves. As you approach the tide pools beneath Portuguese Point, you’ll first notice the natural stairs of rocks in the water. You will find many tide pools filled with sea urchin, hermit crabs, and sea anemone. Past the tide pools you can climb up on the rocks where you’ll see the first cave. If you’re feeling adventurous, wait until the waters are calm and cautiously cross the channel to the other side. The expansive tide pools and views of another sea cave are definitely worth it.

Be sure to bring a dry bag to protect your valuables while crossing the channel. Water shoes or sandals are also recommended to protect your feet from the rocks. On the other side, you will find stunning views of the cliffs of Portuguese Point reflecting on the tide pools. Very few are daring enough to venture across the channel so you will definitely have less of a crowd to compete with. If you continue on, you’ll find another cave and you can cross another channel to reach Sacred Cove.