Beaches and Tide Pools

The Marine Safety Department provides ocean rescue, medical response and ordinance enforcement on City beaches. Lifeguards are not on every beach at all times: swim near a lifeguard, and remember that ocean conditions can change quickly.

Tide pools

Laguna Beach tide pools are part of California’s Marine Protected Area network. Taking or harming marine life is illegal. Follow the good tide pooler rules: never remove animals, shells or rocks, and return any rock you turn over to where it was. Visit at low tide, check a tide chart first, and wear waterproof shoes because the rocks are sharp.

Dogs on the beach

Dogs are allowed on City beaches all year, with time of day limits that change by season. Check the posted beach rules before you go.

Last updated: November 5, 2026