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!

Needle Rock Beach beach in Whitethorn, California - Real-time ocean conditions and beach information on Salty

Needle Rock Beach

Google Maps
Local Time: Loading...
VIEW PRODUCTS
Needle Rock Beach, located in the charming town of Whitethorn, California, is a hidden gem that offers a unique and unforgettable beach experience. What makes this beach truly notable is its stunning rock formations, including the iconic Needle Rock, a towering 300-foot-tall sea stack that rises dramatically from the ocean. This natural wonder is a sight to behold, and the beach's rugged shoreline, surrounded by scenic hiking trails and lush forests, adds to its allure. Visitors can explore the tide pools, which are teeming with marine life, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this unspoiled beach.

The beach offers a range of activities, including hiking, beachcombing, and wildlife watching. Visitors can hike the scenic trails that wind through the surrounding forests, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and the iconic rock formations. The beach is also a great spot for nature lovers, with a variety of bird species and marine life to observe. Amenities are limited, but there are picnic tables and restrooms available, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful day trip or picnic. Typical activities include swimming, surfing, and fishing, although the strong currents and riptides make it essential to exercise caution when engaging in water activities.

The best time to visit Needle Rock Beach is during the summer months, when the weather is mild and sunny, and the tide pools are accessible. However, visitors should be aware of the strong currents and riptides that can occur, especially during the winter months. It's essential to check the tide times and weather forecast before visiting, and to exercise caution when swimming or engaging in water activities. Additionally, the beach can be prone to closures due to high surf or rough seas, so it's a good idea to check with local authorities before heading out. With its unique natural beauty and range of activities, Needle Rock Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the wild and unspoiled beauty of California's coastline.

Quick Answers

Tap or hover over a card to see the answer

Is Needle Rock Beach kid-friendly?

Needle Rock Beach may have limited amenities for young children. Check current conditions before your visit.

Is Needle Rock Beach good for surfing?

While not primarily known for surfing, Needle Rock Beach has 6ft waves today.

What is the best time of year to visit Needle Rock 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 Needle Rock Beach?

Needle Rock Beach tends to have fewer crowds due to limited amenities. Great for those seeking a quieter beach experience.

Is today a good day to swim at Needle Rock Beach?

Swimming conditions are challenging today. Current conditions: cold water (55°F, wetsuit required), large waves (6ft), experienced swimmers only.

Real-Time Beach Data

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

🏖 LAND

Parking & Access

Parking: Yes

Accommodation

Camping: Yes
Tent camping: Yes

💨 AIR

Air temp: 48°F
Wind: 19 mph
Air pressure: 1024 hPa
Feels like: 36°F
Wind direction: NE
PM 2.5: 1 µg/m³
Humidity: 55%
AQI: 39
PM 10: 1 µg/m³
Rainfall: 0 mm
Visibility: 20 mi
Dew point: 32°F
Conditions: Partly cloudy

💧 SEA

Water temp: 55°F
Wave height: 6.0 ft
Swell direction: NW
Wave period: 9 sec
Current velocity: 0.2 mph
Swell wave direction: NW

☀️ SUN

UV index: 2.6
Sunrise: 7:37 AM
Cloud cover: 100%
Sunset: 4:58 PM
Total daylight hours: 9.4 hrs

Nearby Beaches

Russian Gulch State Park

Russian Gulch State Park

Mendocino

Big River Beach

Big River Beach

Mendocino

Russian Gulch State Park

Russian Gulch State Park

California

Pudding Creek Beach

Pudding Creek Beach

Fort Bragg

Westport-Union Landing State Beach

Westport-Union Landing State Beach

California

Pete's Beach

Pete's Beach

Westport

Beach placeholder

Jug Handle Beach

Caspar

Path to Beach (Ocean Dr.)

Path to Beach (Ocean Dr.)

California

Path to Shoreline (Peterson-Headlands Lane)

Path to Shoreline (Peterson-Headlands Lane)

Mendocino

Point Arena-Stornetta Unit (South Entrance)

Point Arena-Stornetta Unit (South Entrance)

Point Arena

Bonham Trail to Cook's Beach

Bonham Trail to Cook's Beach

California

Beach placeholder

Cooks Beach

Gualala

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