Smugglers Cove

Short easy hike that crosses several trails, I like this one a lot, Parking sucks, its either pay for parking or the walk from the car is longer then the actual hiking points but the scenery is magnificent. I’ve done this several times I will be back. if you are gonna go for any hike, don’t be an idiot and always pack out what you pack in.

SLIPPERY WHEN WET!
BACKGROUND:
The Abalone Cove Ecological Reserve features two beaches (Abalone Cove and Sacred Cove), tide pools, beautiful bluff-​top viewing areas, and dramatic crisscrossing trails. The 64-​acre Reserve contains a State Ecological Preserve with important natural marine resources and the bottom of the Portuguese Bend landslide area. Two promontories, Portuguese and Inspiration points, frame Sacred Cove with its sea caves, black sand, and rare plants.
ESSENTIALS:
At least 2 liters of water (depends on distance and temp)
Know your limits
Comfy hiking shoes with good lugs
Layered Clothing
High protein food/​snacks
Electrolytes
Camera
Hat (optional)
Sunscreen
Trek poles (optional)
ROUTE:
I have visited Smugglers Cove, aka Sea Caves several times over the years, always at low tide and have chosen different routes. There’s a nice five mile path that goes from the Forrestal Nature Preserve and involves both dirty dusty trails and street walking. Or if you’re not into longish distances, limited complimentary parking is available above and next to the caves.
The trail to the caves is a dirt and relatively steep trek so good lug sole shoes are a must, just as the rocks are slippery and are best walking on with a good pair of shoes. Therefore, if you want to avoid unexpectedly sitting on a rock, leave your vans and chucks at home.
The tide pools are amazing, filled with sea urchins, starfish, and small fishes. The colors of these magnificent creatures are breathtaking and the waves crashing on the plates and through the caves is amazing. If you’re lucky, there will be some seals hanging out on the buoy near the tide pools. If you stick around long enough, the sunset is spectacular.
The most important thing to remember is to check the times of low-​tide, otherwise you will not be able to enjoy the tide pools. At high-​tide, the water level rises the waves crash over the tide pools, making it impossible to make a safe venture. And be careful, the rocks are slippery when wet.
DISCLAIMER:
Hiking is not something that can be taken lightly. It can be life-​threatening as you see and hear on the news, people die or get lost all time. Please, if you are going to hike, never go alone and prepare for the worst, hope for the best. Remember when going for a hike, no matter how short you think it may be, always be prepared. Carry at least two liters of water for every five miles (more if the weather is warm), protein bar, nuts, and electrolytes. Wear sturdy lug sole shoes and protective clothing. Some areas the weather can change quicker than a fireman can put on his gear. It is also very important, always always always let a family member or friend know where you are going and when you expect to be back. Lastly, have fun when you hike it up.

Beautiful!

Went with meetups each time. We switched to a better trail the last time. It’s not an easy route to find by yourself so do research and be prepare. It’s not hard, it’s just that the trail consists of using multiple trials and if you’ve never been or know what to look for, it’s a little hard to figure out.
I always park around 32 201 Forrestal Drive Rancho Palos Verdes, CA for free next to the soccer field (as I have always been instructed to do through Meetups and haven’t gotten in trouble yet, so look for signs and changes).
The hike itself is unique and has cliffs, tidal pools, and of course the sea caves at the end. The rocks are amazing n color. It looks like you’re standing on a giant colorful turtle.
About a 5 – 6 mile hike. Sort of hilly but not too much I thought. For me, it’s light to moderate depending on level.
Highly recommend!