Little Corona del Mar Beach: Tidepooling, Snorkling, and Diving
Little Corona del Mar Beach, nestled along the picturesque coastline of Orange County, California, offers visitors a tranquil escape from the region’s bustling beaches. Tucked into a rocky cove at the end of a residential street, this small but stunning beach is known for its tide pools, dramatic rock formations, and opportunities for snorkeling and diving.
Surrounded by natural beauty and located in the affluent community of Corona del Mar in Newport Beach, the beach is ideal for families, nature enthusiasts, and photographers alike. Visitors can explore marine life in the tide pools, take in the breathtaking ocean views, or simply relax on the soft sand.
Destination Details
| Season | Year-round |
| Location | Newport Beach, Orange County, California |
| General GPS Coordinates | 33.589953, -117.868740 |
| Management | City of Newport Beach |
| Size | Small, cove-like beach |
| Nearest Major City | Irvine (approximately 12 miles) |
Getting to Little Corona del Mar Beach
Little Corona del Mar Beach is located at the southern end of Buck Gully Reserve in Newport Beach. To reach the beach:
- From the Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1), turn onto Poppy Avenue and follow it to Ocean Boulevard.
- Parking is available along Ocean Boulevard and adjacent residential streets, though spaces can be limited.
- A steep but paved path leads down to the beach from the intersection of Ocean Boulevard and Poppy Avenue. The trail is stroller-friendly but may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Destination Overview
Little Corona del Mar Beach offers a unique combination of accessibility and natural beauty, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Unlike many of Orange County’s larger beaches, it has a peaceful ambiance due to its tucked-away location and limited parking, which helps to reduce crowds.
Tide Pools and Marine Life
One of the highlights of Little Corona is its tide pools, which are teeming with marine life such as sea stars, anemones, and crabs. During low tide, these pools are easily accessible and provide an excellent opportunity for children and adults to explore Southern California’s coastal ecology.
Snorkeling and Diving
The beach is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, with calm waters and interesting underwater rock formations. The clear water allows for excellent visibility, and divers often report seeing colorful fish and other sea creatures.
Scenic Views and Photography
The rocky shoreline and dramatic sunsets make this a picturesque spot for photography. The surrounding cliffs and coastal vegetation add to the area’s visual appeal.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Little Corona del Mar Beach is a family-friendly destination. However, the tide pools and rocks require caution, especially for younger children.
Safety Tips
- Watch for slippery rocks in the tide pool area.
- Check tide schedules before visiting to ensure the best experience exploring marine life.
- Pack out all trash to preserve the beach’s pristine condition.
Nearby Amenities
Little Corona does not have facilities such as restrooms or lifeguards, so visitors should plan accordingly. Larger beaches nearby, like Corona del Mar State Beach, offer more amenities.
