Minor Creek spills over, creating a picturesque little waterfall dropping right onto the sand. You can visit the beach at any tide level, but at low tide, you can explore a small cove where Wridge Creek flows into the ocean.

The gap between rock escarpments opens up on the beach's southern end, so you can pass through it and explore a secluded beach with numerous pools. Please, beware of changing tides.

Rockhounding is not very productive here, especially in the summertime. While you can find agates and other minerals, those are scarce. You might have better luck in winter, since storms move the sand around.

How to Get to Secret Beach

Despite its name, Secret Beach is a popular destination, especially during summer weekends. Because of its popularity, the former undeveloped pullout at U.S. 101 milepost 345.4 became a common access point.

However, this roadside pullout is now closed on both sides of the highway due to safety and environmental concerns.

Visitors can use one of four nearby trailheads and parking areas instead: Arch Rock (Mile 344.8), Spruce Island (Mile 345.0), Thunder Rock Cove (Mile 345.8), or Natural Bridges (Mile 346). Parking is free at all four locations.

Getting to the beach is challenging. The unmarked trail ends at a steep cliff where a rope helps you reach the beach. Wear good shoes and use caution, especially in wet weather.