You've seen the pictures. Here's how to get there and tips to make the most of your visit.
This unbelievably beautiful pool is the second of two manmade natural pools located at Thousand Steps beach in Laguna Beach.
It's definitely not easy to get here but more than worth it. You know what they say, there's no shortcuts to anywhere worth going. Except of course, if you own one of the million dollar cliff side houses by the pools.
GETTING THERE
Enter 1000 Steps Beach on your GPS and it should take you right to the beach access.
There is both free and metered parking available along PCH (Pacific Coast Highway), and you'll want to park the closest possible to 9th Ave.
It's very hard to find a spot in this area on weekends, so the earliest you get there, the better chances you get.
THE BEACH
It's a looooong way down to the beach, though not exactly 1000 steps.
There are about 220 steps in the stairway, but, on the way back up it surely seems like one thousand. You will feel the burn!
The beach is not as crowded as Laguna's main beach and is a great stretch of sand for those looking to relax and find some solitude.
Also, this is one of the most beautiful beaches in Laguna, so enjoy the views!
THE POOLS
When you get to the beach, turn left and start walking south.
You'll eventually come to a cave opening, which should be passable only at low tide.
Walk through it and climb the rocks to get to the little cove. You should be able to see the 1st pool on the other side from here (large rectangular cliffside pool).
The second pool, my favorite, is just a few feet up.
These pools fill up with salt water during high tide and the sun keeps water temps a little warmer than the ocean. Enjoy it with caution as it does get dangerous at times, especially with crashing waves!
IMPORTANT NOTES
- Wear sneakers! I was wearing flip flops and regretted it. Part of the climb is quite steep and it is much easier and safer to get to the pools if you're wearing the proper shoes.
- Make sure to check the tides. You can only get to the pools during low tide, so plan accordingly. And if you'd like to spend some time there, try to arrive when the tide is going down but is not yet at its lowest point. (Click here to check the tide)
- Bring water (again, it's not easy to get here, and there's no structure, so make sure to stay hydrated)
- Pack whatever you bring.
- This is said to be a private property, so lifeguards might show up and ask you to leave. Please respect whatever directions are given by authorities.
I am sharing this information because I truly believe that we all have the right to enjoy beautiful places like this one, they are just waiting to be discovered.
Please be mindful and respect the nature, the other people having fun there and please, don't leave anything behind.
Let's keep it cool so that we can all appreciate such amazing spots for many years to come!
Now go out and seas the day!
With Love,
Bella