Exploring Tidal Pools in a Marine Paradise in San Pedro, California
Royal Palms Beach is Sea World for those of us who yearn to experience the life aquatic sans murky tanks, fanny-pack-clad crowds, and $80 price tags. Crayola-colored starfish, gossamer-light baby octopus, and ticklish sea anemone (poke one for a minute of fun) are just a small sampling of the beach's myriad natural wonders—not to mention the completely-harmless-but-still-super-creepy feral cats that “guard” the beach (an attraction themselves). The pools closest to the metered parking lot are a little picked over, but the further you head from the lot, the more diverse and numerous the marine life becomes. Don’t be afraid to ask the lifeguard on duty questions—he’s there to help, and it gets lonely up there on that perch.
Enter the huge Pacific Ocean with one step. Royal Palms Tide Pools are a stones throw away once you drive down the cliffside road onto this precious piece of scenery. At one point in history this was a swanky bathing club that was destroyed by storms and erosion and is now available for admiration by those who venture. Wait for low tide and dig in, colorful and magical the pools turn into a living symphony of species and learning opportunities. The waves crash and spray over the pools and scents overtake you with the salty and nostalgic feel. You may even get the treat to watch the dolphins frolic and whales go by. You pay for parking, but if you make a day of it you can bring a picnic and enjoy.
Royal Palms Beach is Sea World for those of us who yearn to experience the life aquatic sans murky tanks, fanny-pack-clad crowds, and $80 price tags. Crayola-colored starfish, gossamer-light baby octopus, and ticklish sea anemone (poke one for a minute of fun) are just a small sampling of the beach's myriad natural wonders—not to mention the completely-harmless-but-still-super-creepy feral cats that “guard” the beach (an attraction themselves). The pools closest to the metered parking lot are a little picked over, but the further you head from the lot, the more diverse and numerous the marine life becomes. Don’t be afraid to ask the lifeguard on duty questions—he’s there to help, and it gets lonely up there on that perch.
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