One of the greatest perks of living in Southern California is having endless beaches at your fingertips—whether you’re into surfing, camping, swimming, or just soaking up the sun near a beach side shop. While iconic spots like Newport, Santa Monica, and Huntington get all the buzz, some of the most breathtaking stretches of sand are tucked away in less-traveled areas like Laguna Beach. That’s where you’ll find the hidden treasure of Thousand Steps Beach. Though it can be a bit tricky to locate, the reward is more than worth the effort.
The public access point to Thousand Steps Beach can be found directly across from 9th Street on South Coast Highway (PCH), just two blocks south of South Coast Medical Center. A small sign marks the entrance, where you’ll descend roughly 250 steep steps to reach the sand. It’s a workout both going down and climbing back up—but the stunning views and peaceful shoreline make every step worth it.
Thousand Steps Beach is one of the largest stretches of sand in South Laguna Beach, offering a wide, scenic shoreline perfect for relaxing or exploring. You’ll find volleyball courts, restrooms, tide pools, and even sea caves to discover. One of the highlights is a tunnel-like cave that leads to a hidden rocky cove—an adventure in itself. At the beach’s northern end, another rock tunnel takes you to an expansive, picturesque beach that’s well worth the detour. Unfortunately, this beach, known as Totuava, is only accessible at low tide when the short (in height) tunnel and optional route around the point are safe to pass through.
As I mentioned, Thousand Steps Beach can be tricky to find—and that’s likely by design. Locals prefer to keep it under the radar to avoid the crowds and commercialization that have overtaken places like Huntington and Newport. And honestly, I can’t blame them. Still, it’s a place so stunning that everyone deserves the chance to experience its beauty—if they’re willing to make the effort.
WARNING: A PORTION OF THIS ADVENTURE IS TRESPASSING. FOLLOW MY LEAD AT YOUR OWN RISK. (I don’t think you will get in trouble as long as you aren’t entering onto anyone’s property *several houses border this area* just stick to the sand, don’t go climbing any stairs up to someone’s patio.)
The toughest part of visiting Thousand Steps Beach is, without a doubt, finding parking along the street. Once you do, you’ll find yourself at the staircase that gives this beach its memorable name. While there are actually only around 250 steps, it certainly feels like a thousand—especially on the way back up! So no, it’s not technically accurate, but let’s be honest—“250 Steps Beach” doesn’t quite have the same ring to it. One thing’s for sure: those steps will give you a solid workout.
Once you reach the bottom of the steps, you’re instantly rewarded with a breathtaking view that makes every bit of effort worth it—the iconic California coastline in all its glory. Stretching about 400 yards, the beach is a haven of soft sand, rolling waves, tide pools, and even a hidden cave waiting to be explored. You’ll also spot some of the most extravagant homes perched above the cliffs, complete with private staircases and fenced-off beach access. It’s a stunning mix of natural beauty and coastal luxury.
With turquoise waves crashing onto the shore and tide pools teeming with vibrant sea life, it’s easy to see why people spend millions just to live nearby. Every direction offers a postcard-worthy view. But the real adventure begins when you head south along the beach, where you’ll come upon the mouth of a massive cave—just waiting to be explored.
It’s best to go at low tide, to avoid getting wet. At high tide the water can get up to your upper legs, so be prepared, or check the tide before you go! You can check the tide here. While it’s pretty easy and relatively safe to go at low tide, it can be dangerous at times, especially with the crashing waves. So please be careful. Parts of the trek to the pools are very rocky; I highly recommend water shoes/aqua sox, sandals, or anything that will protect your feet.
While the cave itself is captivating, the real hidden treasure lies just north of Lighthouse Cove—man-made, sand-bottom saltwater pools carved into the coastal rock. These “secret” pools are incredibly tempting, but getting to them isn’t for the faint of heart. The route is risky, with slippery, moss-covered rocks and uneven footing. Locals know to steer clear of the notorious “blow-hole,” a natural hazard that separates the smaller pool from the two larger ones.
If you choose to head north (to the right) along the shoreline, you’ll come across a small rock ledge that leads to the tide pool area—just be aware that this ledge may be impassable during high tide. Once across, you’ll find two narrow rock shelves and a field of scattered boulders. These benches are teeming with marine life, including dense clusters of mussels, barnacles, limpets, snails, and the occasional sea star.
I give Thousand Steps Beach a hundred thumbs up. This may be my new favorite place in Southern California.
Have you been to Thousand Steps Beach?
Wander Woman 