Park

As far as tide pools go, these aren’t as large and packed with sea life as the massive pools down the road at Cabrillo National Monument. But they’re not as packed with tourists, either. Follow the winding road along the park that leads to the stairway down to the pools. There’s something about getting to the bottom of that staircase and suddenly being surrounded by ocean cliffs, sea water, surfers, and nothing else—there’s little sign of the city or even the road above to be seen. Take your time and marvel at the fact that Southern California’s coastline still offers tucked-away spaces like this one.

If you want maximum exposure to the pools’ sea anemone, hermit crabs, and tiny fish, check when low tide is likeliest to happen.