Shaw's Cove: Nature's Retreat on the Pacific Shore

Shaws Cove is one of Laguna Beach`s most stunning dive sites for snorkeling and underwater exploring. A small sandy beach, but a paradise for underwater explorers with a lot to offer.

Beach at Shaws Cove

The Beach

Even though scuba diving is mostly associated with Diver`s Cove right by, this site is frequently used by locals that are in the know, goes. Mostly because this site is secluded and usually less crowded. 

When arriving from Cliff Drive, there are a few easy steps down the concrete stairs with railings. Then you can just stroll over the sand, right to the water. This site is considered safe for beginners and for small kids to play, especially when the tides are low.

Other popular activities are swimming, boogie boarding, and skin diving. This is a marine protected area, so skimboarding and fishing are forbidden, so don’t disturb the marine life or collect anything. 

Sea Life

Even if you are not Scuba-certified, you can still see a lot of sea life. There is no need to swim far to realize you have found an underwater paradise.

One thing Shaws Cove is famous for, like Crescent Bay right by, is the underwater caves and channels that can be explored here. Be sure to pay attention to your turns, when there are dead ends. You might see eels and octopuses here. Stingrays, angel sharks and lobsters are also some of the sea creatures you can stumble on.

The reef wall appears from 8 feet below surface and can be followed all the way down to 40 feet. Around 20-25 feet down, there will be a break in the wall and that’s where the known crevice begins.

Shelly of Shaws, The Mermaid Statue

Shelly of Shaws, The Mermaid Statue

If you instead of entering the crevice, keep swimming along the wall and make a 90 degree turn at a depth of 35 feet. Swim for approximately 25 feet and you will come across a mermaid statue called Shelly of Shaw's.

The statue is mostly covered in vegetation and makes a popular spot for Nudibranchs to live. Note that the Nudibranchs are also quite venomous. Occasionally divers might experience octopuses revealing themselves from hiding underneath the statue.

Amenities

This site has no restroom or any facilities at Shaws Cove. There are however opportunities for restrooms in walking distance, if needed. The beach also has a lifeguard on duty here seven days a week in summertime. The lifeguard will tell you to stay away from the shallow tide pool area, because of rocks.

Parking

Parking is a little difficult, but there is a metered parking area near Heisler park (on top of the hill on Fairview) and is about a 20 min walk away. Or, if You can find a spot, parking is free on Cliff Dr. in this neighborhood. 

Rules:

Beach hours: 6 am to 10 pm year round.

Dog rules: Dogs are allowed before 9am and after 6pm.

Between September 11.- June 14. Dogs are allowed at all beach hours.

Dogs Must be on a minimum 6 feet leash.