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Shaw's Cove beach in Laguna Beach, California - Real-time ocean conditions and beach information on Salty

Shaw's Cove

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Shaw's Cove beach, located in the picturesque coastal town of Laguna Beach, California, is a unique and notable destination that offers a tranquil and secluded experience for visitors. This small, crescent-shaped beach is nestled between two cliffs, providing a sense of seclusion and protection from the outside world. What makes Shaw's Cove truly special is its crystal-clear waters, which are perfect for snorkeling and exploring the underwater world, and its tide pools, which are home to a diverse array of marine life, including anemones, starfish, and crabs.

Visitors to Shaw's Cove can enjoy a range of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, as well as exploring the nearby tide pools and marine life. The beach also offers amenities such as restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, making it an ideal spot for families and groups. In addition, the beach is surrounded by scenic hiking trails, including the Shaw's Cove Trail, which offers stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding landscape. Typical activities at Shaw's Cove include snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking, and visitors can also take advantage of nearby amenities such as restaurants, shops, and surf schools.

The best time to visit Shaw's Cove is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the water is calm, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. However, visitors should be aware that the beach can be crowded during peak season, and parking can be limited. It's also important to note that the beach is subject to strong rip currents and waves during the winter months, making it less suitable for swimming and snorkeling. Additionally, visitors should be aware of the strong tides and potential for strong currents, and should always swim and snorkel with a buddy and follow safety guidelines. With its unique combination of natural beauty, secluded atmosphere, and range of activities and amenities, Shaw's Cove is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of California's coastline.

Quick Answers

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What is Shaw's Cove most known for?

Shaw's Cove is most known for beautiful tide pools, and excellent underwater visibility.

Is Shaw's Cove kid-friendly?

Shaw's Cove may have limited amenities for young children. Check current conditions before your visit.

Is Shaw's Cove good for surfing?

While not primarily known for surfing, Shaw's Cove has 4.8ft waves today.

What is the best time of year to visit Shaw's Cove?

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 Shaw's Cove?

Shaw's Cove 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 Shaw's Cove?

Swimming is possible with proper precautions. Current conditions: moderate water temperature (63°F, wetsuit recommended), large waves (4.8ft), 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

Recreation & Sports

Scuba diving: Yes

Special Features

Tide pools: Yes

💨 AIR

Air temp: 56°F
Wind: 1 mph
Air pressure: 1014 hPa
Feels like: 56°F
Wind direction: E
PM 2.5: 11 µg/m³
Humidity: 89%
AQI: 29
PM 10: 12 µg/m³
Rainfall: 0 mm
Visibility: 9 mi
Dew point: 53°F
Conditions: Partly cloudy

💧 SEA

Water temp: 63°F
Wave height: 4.8 ft
Swell direction: W
Wave period: 9 sec
Current velocity: 0.2 mph
Swell wave direction: W

☀️ SUN

UV index: 0.75
Sunrise: 6:54 AM
Cloud cover: 100%
Sunset: 4:50 PM
Total daylight hours: 9.9 hrs

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