Thousand Steps Cave & Pools

Whether you can get into the cave depends on three things: the tide, the waves, and the time of year.

It's only reachable around low tide, and even then big swell or high surf can fill the entrance and make it dangerous. During the summer season, southern swells push all the sand north, removing the natural barrier that keeps water at bay: making it a gamble on its open status. When those northern swells push the sand back, during late fall, winter, and early spring, the cave is open most days.

When it's open, the window is usually short — aim to arrive right at the potential opening time.

Be careful of waves crashing over the rocks while taking photos; watch out for slippery, green, mossy rocks.

And always listen to the lifeguard for your safety.