Best Beaches in Laguna Beach: A Local's Guide (2026)
- Liz Jurkowski
- Jun 29
- 9 min read
As someone who was born and raised in Laguna Beach, I've spent decades exploring every stretch of this coastline. Visitors often ask me, "What's the best beach in Laguna Beach?" The truth is, it depends on what you're looking for.
Some beaches are perfect for families, others are ideal for snorkeling, tide pools, photography, or simply escaping the crowds. Here's my local guide to the very best beaches in Laguna Beach.
Beach | Best For | Parking | Accessibility |
Main Beach | Families, volleyball | Easy | Easy |
Crescent Bay | Scenic swimming | Moderate | Moderate |
Victoria Beach | Photos, Pirate Tower | Difficult | Moderate |
Thousand Steps | Tide pools | Difficult | Hard |
Treasure Island | Resort views, Families | Moderate | Easy |
Diver's Cove | Snorkeling | Moderate | Moderate |
Aliso Beach | Families, skimboarding | Easy (it has its own lot) | Easy |
My Favorite Laguna Beach Beaches
Laguna Beach is famous for its beautiful coastline, and it’s no surprise that it has some of the most picturesque beaches in Southern California. Each beach has its own vibe and unique features. I always recommend trying a few to get the full experience.
Here are some of my favorites:
Main Beach: The heart of Laguna Beach, perfect for people-watching and easy access.
Crescent Bay Beach: Crystal-clear water, incredible sunsets, and one of my favorite beaches for swimming and snorkeling.
Thousand Steps Beach: A bit of a workout to get down, but the views and tide pools are worth it.
Victoria Beach: Known for its iconic pirate tower and peaceful atmosphere.
Treasure Island Beach: Easy beach access, beautiful coastal trails, and stunning views next to the Montage.
Diver’s Cove: A small, secluded spot great for snorkeling (my local hangout when I was a teenager).
Aliso Beach: A beautiful, wide beach with a playground, dramatic cliffs and its own parking lot (and my favorite place to get a breakfast burrito!).
Looking for even more ways to enjoy Laguna Beach? Check out my complete guide to the best things to do in Laguna Beach.
What is the Main Beach in Laguna Beach?
Main Beach is the heart of Laguna Beach, the central hub of Laguna Beach’s coastline. It’s where you’ll find the iconic boardwalk, volleyball courts, and plenty of space to spread out your towel. I love coming here because it’s lively but not overwhelming. There’s a playground nearby, so it’s great if you’re traveling with kids.
All year, you'll often find volleyball games, community events, and visitors enjoying the boardwalk from morning until sunset.
The beach is also right next to the charming downtown area, so grabbing a bite or a coffee after a swim is super easy. Plus, the sunsets here are absolutely breathtaking. I always make sure to stick around for the golden hour.
⭐ Liz Tip
Main Beach gets crowded after 11 a.m. During summer, I recommend arriving before 9:30 if you want nearby parking.
Crescent Bay Beach - One of My Personal Favorites
If someone asked me to recommend just one Laguna Beach beach, Crescent Bay would be at the top of my list. Tucked away in North Laguna, this crescent-shaped cove is known for its crystal-clear water, dramatic cliffs, and incredible coastal views. It's one of my favorite places to take visitors who want to experience the natural beauty that makes Laguna Beach so special.
The beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, body surfing, or simply relaxing on the sand. On calm days, the water is amazingly clear, and if you stay for sunset, you'll understand why so many locals love this spot. Bring your camera. It's one of the most photogenic beaches in Laguna Beach.
⭐ Liz Tip
Walk to the north end of the beach for beautiful views of Seal Rock and the rugged coastline.
Thousand Steps Beach: Why it is Worth the Effort
Don’t let the name fool you. It’s actually only about 220 steps down to this beach, but trust me, it’s worth every one. The walk down is a bit steep, so wear comfortable shoes. Once you get there, you’ll find a quieter beach with tide pools. Even if you never explore the tide pools, the beach itself is worth the climb. My husband and I enjoy the sunset there often.
I also love exploring the tide pools here. You can spot starfish, crabs, and sometimes even small octopuses. It’s a perfect spot if you want to feel like you’ve discovered a secret part of Laguna Beach.
⭐ Liz Tip
Visit Thousand Steps two hours before low tide if you want to explore the sea cave and tide pools safely.
Victoria Beach - The Pirate Tower and More
Victoria Beach is one of those places that feels like a little adventure. The highlight here is the old pirate tower standing tall on the sand. It’s a fun spot to explore and take photos. The beach itself is wide and sandy, great for sunbathing or a peaceful walk.
This beach tends to be less crowded, which I appreciate when I want to escape the busier spots. Just a heads up: parking can be tricky, so try to come early or later in the afternoon.
Treasure Island Beach - Beautiful Views and Easy Access
Located next to the iconic Montage Laguna Beach, Treasure Island Beach combines beautiful scenery with one of the easiest beach accesses in town. A paved path leads down to the sand, making it a great choice for families, visitors with strollers, or anyone who prefers to avoid long staircases.
This beach is popular for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing while enjoying panoramic ocean views. I also love walking the bluff-top paths above the beach, especially in the early morning or just before sunset. Even if you're not staying at the resort, the public beach and coastal trails are open for everyone to enjoy.
⭐ Liz Tip
Arrive early, then take time to explore the coastal walking paths around the Montage. Some of my favorite ocean views in Laguna Beach are found here.
Diver’s Cove - A Snorkeler’s Paradise
If you’re into snorkeling or just want to see some underwater life, Diver’s Cove is a must-visit. It’s a small, tucked-away beach with calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. I’ve seen colorful fish and even some small rays here.
Because it’s a bit hidden, it’s usually less crowded, which makes for a relaxing day. Bring your snorkel gear and a picnic, and you’re set for a fantastic day by the water. Even today, every time I walk down to Diver's Cove, I think of afternoons spent here with my mom. It's one of those places that will always feel like home to me.
Aliso Beach - A Favorite for Families and Skimboarding
Aliso Beach is one of Laguna Beach's widest and most family-friendly beaches. With a large parking lot, restrooms, picnic tables, benches, and a playground just steps from the sand, it's an easy choice if you're planning to spend the entire day at the beach.
One of my favorite reasons to visit is the Lost Pier Café. If you're here in the morning, do yourself a favor and order one of their breakfast burritos. They're my favorite in Laguna Beach. Grab your food to go and enjoy breakfast with an ocean view.
Aliso Beach is also famous for skimboarding. On any given day, you'll likely see talented skimboarders racing across the shore and performing impressive tricks in the waves. It's fun to watch, even if you've never tried the sport yourself.
One thing to keep in mind: the shorebreak at Aliso Beach can be surprisingly powerful, especially during larger swells. Even on beautiful days, waves can break hard right at the shoreline. Always pay attention to the surf conditions, swim near the lifeguards, and use extra caution when entering or exiting the water.
⭐ Liz Tip
Even if you're not planning a beach day, Aliso Beach is a wonderful place to stop for breakfast at Lost Pier Café before continuing your drive along the coast.
My Favorite Laguna Beach Beaches by Activity
Liz's Picks ❤️
🏖 Best Overall: Crescent Bay
👨👩👧 Best for Families: Main Beach
🤿 Best Snorkeling: Diver's Cove
🌊 Best Tide Pools: Thousand Steps
📸 Best Photos: Victoria Beach
🥐 Best Breakfast: Aliso Beach
🌅 Best Sunset: Crescent Bay
Parking at Laguna Beach's Beaches
If there's one thing I want every visitor to know before heading to the beach, it's this: parking can be the hardest part of your day. During summer, weekends, and holidays, the most popular beaches fill up quickly, and it's not unusual to circle for a while looking for an open space.
My best advice? Arrive early if you can. If you're planning a beach day at Main Beach, Victoria Beach, or Thousand Steps, getting there before mid-morning will save you time and frustration.
For a much easier experience, I recommend parking once and using Laguna Beach's free trolley system. It's one of my favorite ways to get around town because you can hop on and off throughout the day without worrying about moving your car or feeding parking meters.
If you're visiting during the busy season, be sure to read my complete guide on Where to Park in Laguna Beach (and Why You Should Take the Trolley). I cover the best parking options, how the trolley works, and my favorite local tips for spending less time searching for parking and more time enjoying the beach.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laguna Beach Beaches
Which is the best beach in Laguna Beach?
That depends on what you're looking for. Main Beach is great for first-time visitors and families, Victoria Beach is famous for its Pirate Tower, Thousand Steps Beach is my favorite for tide pools and adventure, and Crescent Bay Beach is hard to beat for swimming, snorkeling, and sunset views.
What is the prettiest beach in Laguna Beach?
Many locals would say Crescent Bay Beach thanks to its turquoise water, rocky shoreline, and incredible coastal views. Victoria Beach is another favorite for its unique Pirate Tower and picturesque setting. Every beach has its own personality, so it's worth exploring more than one during your visit.
Which Laguna Beach has the best tide pools?
Thousand Steps Beach is one of the best places to explore tide pools, especially around low tide. You'll find sea stars, anemones, hermit crabs, and other fascinating marine life. Please remember to admire these delicate ecosystems without touching or removing anything.
What beach has the Pirate Tower?
The iconic Pirate Tower is located at Victoria Beach. Built in 1926, the tower is one of Laguna Beach's most photographed landmarks. Visit during low tide for the best views and easiest access.
What is the best beach for snorkeling in Laguna Beach?
Diver's Cove is one of the top snorkeling spots in Laguna Beach thanks to its calm, clear water and abundant marine life. Crescent Bay Beach and Treasure Island Beach are also excellent choices when ocean conditions are favorable.
Which Laguna Beach is best for families?
Main Beach and Aliso Beach are my top recommendations for families. Main Beach is close to downtown, while Aliso offers easier parking, a playground, and plenty of room to spread out.
Are Laguna Beach beaches free?
Yes! All public beaches in Laguna Beach are free to visit. You'll only need to pay for parking in most locations, although free parking and the free trolley make getting around much easier during the busy season.
Can you swim at Laguna Beach?
Absolutely. Many of Laguna Beach's beaches are wonderful for swimming, especially during the summer months. Always check ocean conditions, swim near lifeguard towers when possible, and be aware of rip currents and changing surf.
When is the best time to visit Laguna Beach beaches?
Early mornings are my favorite time to visit. The beaches are quieter, parking is easier, and the light is beautiful for photos. If you're visiting during the summer, arriving before 10 a.m. can make your day much more enjoyable.
What should I bring to a Laguna Beach beach day?
Don't forget sunscreen, water, a towel, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera. If you plan to explore tide pools, wear sturdy shoes with good traction. And if you're spending the day, pack a picnic or plan to enjoy one of Laguna Beach's many nearby cafés and restaurants.
Which Laguna Beach beach has the fewest stairs?
Main Beach and Aliso Beach are among the easiest beaches to access, with paved walkways and minimal stairs. They're great choices for families with strollers, visitors with limited mobility, or anyone who prefers a more accessible beach experience.
Tips for Enjoying Laguna Beach’s Shores
Here are some quick tips to make your beach day even better:
Arrive early to find good parking, especially on weekends.
Bring sunscreen and plenty of water - the sun can be strong.
Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore rocky areas or hike down stairs.
Respect the tide pools - don’t touch or remove marine life.
Pack a picnic or check out local eateries nearby for fresh seafood and snacks.
Laguna Beach has so much to offer, and these beaches are just the start. I hope you get to explore them and find your own favorite spot.
Looking for more local tips? Check out my complete Laguna Beach travel guides, where I share favorite hikes, restaurants, hidden gems, and seasonal events.
Your Next Beach Day Awaits
There’s something magical about Laguna Beach’s coastline. Whether you want to dive into the waves, explore tide pools, or just relax with a good book, these beaches have it all. I’m always excited to share my local favorites and help you make the most of your time here.
No matter which beach you choose, I hope you fall in love with Laguna Beach the way I did growing up here. So grab your beach bag, sunscreen, and sense of adventure. The best beaches in Laguna Beach are waiting for you to discover their beauty and charm. See you on the sand!
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