The Top 4 Places to Explore Tide Pools in Laguna Beach

Get an introduction to life under the sea.

If you have a love for the ocean and marine wildlife, Laguna Beach is one of the best places you could choose to visit. With amazing tide pools located up and down the city's coast, you can spend hours getting an up-close view of ocean life. There are even docents who can give you an introduction to what you're seeing at Main and Treasure Island beaches. Docents are typically scheduled on Main Beach, and Heisler Park area from Bird Rock to Monument Point area & Shaw’s Cove. They are usually out on the lowest tides of the year, when the tide pools are the safest. You can find more information on the docents at Laguna Ocean Foundation.

Keep in mind that tide pools are fragile ecosystems and it's very important that you take care not to do any damage when exploring. Please watch where you step and do not remove any living or non-living items from the pools. This will help ensure the health and longevity of these beautiful places for others to enjoy for years to come. Also because of the rocky area and the strong currents that occur we recommend that the tide pools only be visited during low tide. Check here for tide reports before planning your tide pool adventures in Laguna Beach.

1. Explore the Seascape at Crescent Bay Beach

Photo: Eric Bennett

2. Discover Laguna Beach’s Pirate Tower

Photo: Aubree Plodinec

3. Explore Laguna Beach Caves

Photo: Eric Bennett

4. Explore Thousand Steps Beach

Photo: Kat Carney

Cover photo: Eric Bennett

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!