Have a Perfect Beach Day at Thousand Steps Beach

Crystal clear waters, gorgeous beaches, caves, secret pools and amazing nature!

Last updated: May 2024

Free

Description

Experience one of the best beaches in SoCal - Thousand Steps Beach in Laguna Beach. This beach is considered hidden; however, it's very accessible. Work your way down through 200 steps and a gorgeous beach will be uncovered in front of you. Nature feels untouched and pure. Water is crystal clear and super salty. You will have a blast playing with ocean waves and strolling the beach. You have to go left once you hit the beach to find secret pools. Go through the cave, climb a few rocks, and soon after, you will be at the pools! Spend the whole day at Thousand Steps Beach; bring food and drinks, explore the pools and the cave, swim and tan! The beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing; the surrounding cliffs' views are simply breathtaking. So why wait? Pack your beach bag and make the trek down to 1000 Steps Beach. It's the perfect spot to escape the city's hustle and bustle and enjoy the California coast's beauty.

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For groups

For families with kids

For parents and grownups

Outdoorsy

Chill

Good to know

FREE

Park

Open to public

Full day

Street Parking

TikTok videos

Itinerary

Park near 9th Ave Laguna Beach
Find Thousand Steps entrance
Go down the stairs
Turn left once you hit the beach
Go through the cave
Climb the rocks in front of you
Bend the rocks on the top
Go down to the beach on the other side
Cross the beach to the trail to the pools
You made it!

Location

Coast Highway and 9th Ave Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Show directions

Packing List

swimsuit
sunscreen
hat
sunglasses
towel
beach blanket
beach chairs (optional)
water shoes (optional)
cooler with food and drinks
trashbag

4.7 ● Google reviews

Jeena Ragnos

3 months ago

It is a nice, moderately inhabited cliff-side beach that has some fun wildlife down the Southside of the beach where a giant hole in the sandstone peninsula stands. The northern side may be less populated at times if you want more peace and quite.
Brian Peddie

2 months ago

It’s only a few steps but is worth the walk. You can park at hospital nearby on the weekends or hope to find street parking which is unlikely. Bathrooms are gross. Lifeguards keep a watch for pretty treacherous currents and large waves. Even at low tide the cliffs may not be accessible due to risks.
Hayashi yui

3 months ago

Super Sunny 😎 day ☀️ it was hot but the landscape is nice under the sun! Way better than last year! The sea water is still cold by the way.
Preeti K

10 months ago

Thousand Steps Beach is a hidden gem and a great stairs experience. Despite the name, it’s actually around 200–250 steps, but it definitely feels like more on the way back up. Parking can be hit or miss since it’s mostly street parking along Pacific Coast Highway, so make sure to park legally and watch the signs. I went in the morning with my bestie, and the beach was very calm and peaceful. We even found the secret pool, which made the visit extra fun. The views walking down are beautiful, and once you reach the sand, it’s absolutely worth it 🌊✨
EM

8 months ago

1000 Steps Beach is absolutely beautiful and worth the workout. The walk down (and especially back up) the steep stairs can be challenging, but once you reach the beach, you’re rewarded with stunning ocean views, soft sand, and crystal-clear water. It’s a great spot for photos, relaxing, and exploring the small caves along the shoreline. The beach feels more peaceful compared to other Laguna spots, especially during weekdays. Sunset here is amazing and one of the best in the area. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and pack light for the climb back up. Overall, it’s a must-visit beach if you don’t mind earning the view.