This Malibu beach at low tide really shows off its rocky underworld where sea stars, anemones, sea urchins and crabs delight sea-life seekers of all ages. Your kids can really tap into their inner pirate while they climb under rock arches, through tunnels, and inside small coves. Park along PCH or call ahead to see if the day-use parking lot is open. Covid-19 Update: This state-run beach is open. Visitors are required to maintain 6 feet of physical distancing and wear a face covering.

Once a spot for natural sulfur hot springs, this hidden-gem space now gives life to sea stars, urchins and sea cucumbers that show themselves when the tide is low. With a (paid) parking lot on site, clean public restrooms, picnic tables, a playground and the White Point Nature Preserve right across the street, this beach makes aquatic exploring a fun experience for the whole crew. Covid-19 Update: The LA county beach is open. For a full list of rules at county beaches, go to LA County’s website.

While the tide is out at this beach, feast your eyes on crabs, fish, anemones and abalone. Keep in mind the hike to the beach is hilly, and water shoes are a must for the rocky tidepools. This outing might be best for older kids, but the bonus is that the beach tends to be less crowded than others. Covid-19 Update: Run by the city of Rancho Palos Verdes, the park and beach is open, though portions of it are closed because of unstable cliffs above. See the map online or call ahead for details.

This Malibu gem is a great place to explore ocean caves, pools and rock arches. During low tide, the pools fill with sea creatures and the rocks are covered in mussels, clams and barnacles. Park along PCH or in the small metered lot (it fills up fast, so arrive early). The stairs down to the beach are a bit steep, so it's a good idea to hold onto little hands. Covid-19 Update: This state-run beach is open. Visitors are required to maintain 6 feet of physical distance and wear a face covering.

Your nature lovers will be in sea creature heaven during low tide on this beach! It’s certainly rocky, but pretty flat for the most part making it easy to check out the treasures revealed when the tide is out. Beautiful green crabs, mussels, anemones, sea stars and the occasional sea slug come out in and around these tide pools. Covid-19 Update: The city-run beach is open, with limited parking available. Physical distancing must be maintained and face coverings are required when close to others.

There are a few tidepool options at this Orange County spot, with Pelican Point and Little Treasure Cove being two of the most popular places to check out. Pay $15 to park in one of the lots and walk down scenic paths to the water’s edge where low tide has quite a bit to offer. Not only are marine animals plentiful here, but dolphin pods and the occasional whale spout are often seen just past the pools. Covid-19 Update: The Orange County park and beach is open with physical distancing required.