Salty Logo

WHAT'S NEW?

Subscribe to get our latest features, gear, and content delivered right to your inbox.

By subscribing, you accept our Privacy Policy

Follow us!

Salty

WHAT'S NEW?

Subscribe to get our latest features, gear, and content delivered right to your inbox.

By subscribing, you accept our Privacy Policy

Follow us!

Thousand Steps Beach beach in Laguna Beach, California - Real-time ocean conditions and beach information on Salty

Thousand Steps Beach

Google Maps
Local Time: Loading...
VIEW PRODUCTS
Thousand Steps Beach, located in the picturesque city of Laguna Beach, California, is a hidden gem that showcases the state's stunning coastline. What makes this beach unique is its dramatic staircase, comprising 218 steps, that descends from the bluff top to the sand, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. As visitors make their way down to the beach, they are greeted by a tranquil cove, surrounded by towering cliffs and filled with soft, golden sand. The beach's seclusion and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a relaxing and secluded coastal experience.

At Thousand Steps Beach, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The beach is also a popular spot for tide pooling, with its shallow pools and diverse marine life. Amenities are limited, but visitors can find restrooms, showers, and picnic tables at the top of the stairs. During the summer months, the beach can get crowded, but the scenery and atmosphere remain unspoiled. Visitors can also explore the surrounding area, which features scenic hiking trails, including the Laguna Coastal Trail, that offer stunning views of the coastline.

The best time to visit Thousand Steps Beach is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is warm and the ocean conditions are calm. However, visitors should be aware of the strong currents and rip tides that can occur during the winter months, making it essential to exercise caution when swimming. Additionally, the beach is prone to closures during high surf or stormy weather, so it's essential to check the conditions before visiting. With its unique landscape, tranquil atmosphere, and diverse marine life, Thousand Steps Beach is an ideal destination for those seeking a quintessential California beach experience, and with some planning and caution, visitors can enjoy a memorable and relaxing day at this stunning beach.

Quick Answers

Tap or hover over a card to see the answer

Is Thousand Steps Beach kid-friendly?

Yes! Thousand Steps Beach is great for families with lifeguards on duty.

Is Thousand Steps Beach good for surfing?

While not primarily known for surfing, Thousand Steps Beach has 2.6ft waves today.

What is the best time of year to visit Thousand Steps Beach?

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the warmest weather and water temperatures. Summer can be crowded. Fall provides pleasant conditions with fewer visitors.

How are the crowds at Thousand Steps Beach?

Thousand Steps Beach is a well-equipped beach with parking, restrooms, and lifeguards, which can attract more visitors especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive early for best parking and space.

Is today a good day to swim at Thousand Steps Beach?

Swimming is possible with proper precautions. Current conditions: moderate water temperature (63°F, wetsuit recommended), moderate waves, use caution, lifeguards on duty.

Real-Time Beach Data

Salty delivers real-time intelligence across land amenities, air quality and weather, ocean conditions, and sun exposure.

🏖 LAND

Facilities & Restrooms

Restrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes

Parking & Access

Parking: Yes

Safety & Services

Lifeguard: Yes

💨 AIR

Air temp: 49°F
Wind: 7 mph
Air pressure: 1016 hPa
Feels like: 43°F
Wind direction: NE
PM 2.5: 15 µg/m³
Humidity: 64%
AQI: 64
PM 10: 16 µg/m³
Rainfall: 0 mm
Visibility: 17 mi
Dew point: 37°F
Conditions: Clear sky

💧 SEA

Water temp: 63°F
Wave height: 2.6 ft
Swell direction: W
Wave period: 8 sec
Current velocity: 0 mph
Swell wave direction: W

☀️ SUN

UV index: 3.65
Sunrise: 6:54 AM
Cloud cover: 0%
Sunset: 4:51 PM
Total daylight hours: 9.9 hrs

Nearby Beaches

Beach placeholder

Santa Ana River Mouth Beach

Newport Beach

Crystal Cove Historic District

Crystal Cove Historic District

Newport Beach

Huntington State Beach

Huntington State Beach

Huntington Beach

Balboa Beach

Balboa Beach

Newport Beach

Beach placeholder

Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort and Marina

Newport Beach

Beach placeholder

Newport Beach

Newport Beach

Beach placeholder

T Street Beach

San Clemente

Beach placeholder

The Pier Beach

San Clemente

Beach placeholder

North Day Use Beach

Dana Point

Beach placeholder

South Day Use Beach

Dana Point

Beach placeholder

Group Campsite

Dana Point

Beach placeholder

Playa Las Palmeras

San Clemente

Salty

STAY IN THE LOOP

By subscribing, you consent to our Privacy Policy and receive updates.

ABOUT SALTY

Salty is your definitive source for real-time ocean conditions, beach information, and marine safety data worldwide. Access comprehensive beach intelligence including weather forecasts, water temperatures, wave conditions, and surf reports. Discover ocean education resources, conservation events, and beachside promotions all in one place. Whether you're planning a beach day, tracking marine conditions, or exploring coastal destinations, Salty provides trusted, up-to-date ocean and beach data for every shore around the globe.

© 2025 Salty. All rights reserved.

Visit California