Pirate Tower Victoria Beach
A whimsical 60-foot tower on Victoria Beach, Laguna, built in 1926. Accessible only at low tide, it's a fairytale escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Essential for access
Pirate Tower Victoria Beach
Best Time
Essential for access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A whimsical 60-foot tower on Victoria Beach, Laguna, built in 1926. Accessible only at low tide, it's a fairytale escape.
"The Pirate Tower in Laguna Beach is a hidden gem with a magical vibe."
🎯 Check Tide Charts First!
Crucial for accessing the tower. Aim for low tide to avoid being cut off. :ocean:
🚗 Parking Strategy
Park on PCH near Victoria Dr, then walk down residential streets to the beach. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Pirate Tower
Victoria Beach
A 60-foot fairytale tower built in 1926, offering a whimsical, Rapunzel-esque escape.
Secret Tide Pools
Victoria Beach
Discover hidden tide pools carved into the rocks, teeming with marine life.
Dramatic Coastal Views
Victoria Beach
Enjoy stunning ocean vistas and rugged rock formations, especially magical at sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything: Tide Dependent Access
Parking & Access: Plan Your Approach
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Tide Charts First!
Crucial for accessing the tower. Aim for low tide to avoid being cut off. :ocean:
🚗 Parking Strategy
Park on PCH near Victoria Dr, then walk down residential streets to the beach.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The walk to the tower involves sand and rocks, so comfortable footwear is key. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Sunset offers the most picturesque lighting for photos of the tower. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Tide Charts First!
Crucial for accessing the tower. Aim for low tide to avoid being cut off. :ocean:
🚗 Parking Strategy
Park on PCH near Victoria Dr, then walk down residential streets to the beach.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The walk to the tower involves sand and rocks, so comfortable footwear is key. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Sunset offers the most picturesque lighting for photos of the tower. :camerawithflash:
🚫 No Facilities Nearby
Be prepared as there are no restrooms or amenities directly at the tower.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Pirate Tower's fairytale charm and unique beauty, calling it a 'hidden gem' and a 'magical vibe.' The picturesque setting, especially at sunset, and the opportunity to explore tide pools are major highlights. However, the tricky parking and the absolute necessity of checking tide charts for safe access are common points of caution.
"Go to Victoria Beach and climb up on the rocks on the north side of the beach. The tower is a short walk around the cliff corner. Be careful and don't climb on the rocks if there is a sign warning you not to because the waves can be high and choppy! The tower was cool looking, there aren't any info signs about it."
Brynn Carter
"amazing view and quite unique place.
Just remember be there at low tide. 2/3 hours before high tide it becomes unsafe to reach there, at high tide, accessible route totally under water"
Hunter Liu
"Totally gotta check this one out! What an awesome spot.
Parked near Treasure Island and then walked up the coast to get to Victoria beach. Watch the tide getting to the tower."
Jess Robach
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pirate Tower is located at Victoria Beach in Laguna Beach. The most common approach is to park along Coast Highway (PCH) near Victoria Drive or Dumond Drive. From there, walk down the residential streets until you reach the beach. Head north along the sand, navigating around some rocks, to find the tower.
Parking can be difficult, especially on busy days. Metered street parking is available along PCH, but it fills up quickly. Some visitors suggest parking further away and walking or biking to the beach.
No, you cannot drive directly to the Pirate Tower. It is located on the beach and requires a walk from the nearest accessible street parking.
Typing 'Pirate Tower Victoria Beach' or 'Pirate Tower Laguna Beach' into Google Maps will usually guide you to the general area. However, remember that parking is not directly at the tower itself.
While there are bus routes that run along PCH in Laguna Beach, getting directly to Victoria Beach via public transport might require a significant walk from the nearest bus stop. It's generally easier to access by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit the Pirate Tower. It is a public beach attraction.
The Pirate Tower is accessible during daylight hours, but its availability is strictly dependent on the tide. Always check tide charts before your visit.
Victoria Beach itself does not have an entrance fee. Access to the beach and the Pirate Tower is free.
The Pirate Tower is a historic structure and is not open for public entry. It serves as a picturesque landmark on the beach.
Many visitors recommend visiting during the 'golden hour' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for the best lighting and photographic opportunities.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset is highly recommended for its beautiful light, creating a magical atmosphere around the tower. Early mornings also offer softer light and fewer crowds.
You can capture stunning shots of the tower itself, the surrounding tide pools, dramatic coastal landscapes, and the unique architecture of the homes above. It's a popular spot for portraits and fashion shoots.
Be mindful of the tide when setting up your shots. Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the tower and its surroundings. Experiment with different angles from the beach and the rocks.
Drone regulations can vary, and it's essential to check local ordinances for Laguna Beach and Orange County before flying. Respect privacy and safety guidelines.
The nickname 'Rapunzel's Tower' comes from the tower's fairytale-like appearance and its height, evoking imagery of the classic fairy tale where Rapunzel lets down her hair from a tall tower.
🎫 🌊 Onsite Experience
Victoria Beach offers beautiful sandy shores for relaxing, exploring tide pools, and enjoying the ocean. The surrounding cliffs provide scenic views, and the tower itself is a unique focal point.
No, the Pirate Tower is not safe or intended for climbing. It is a historic structure and should be admired from the beach.
Unfortunately, there are no restrooms or public facilities directly at Victoria Beach or near the Pirate Tower. It's advisable to use facilities before arriving.
Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking on sand and potentially slippery rocks. Bring swimwear if you plan to enjoy the water.
Yes, you can bring a picnic to Victoria Beach. However, remember to pack out all your trash to keep the beach clean.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring the tide pools during low tide is a fantastic educational activity, allowing children to discover small marine creatures. Remember to check the tide charts carefully, as safe access is paramount. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on the beach. Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the sand and rocks. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be mindful of the tide when setting up your shots, as conditions can change rapidly. The tower's unique architecture and the rugged natural beauty of the beach provide endless creative opportunities, from landscape shots to portraits. 🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers
The thrill of reaching the tower just as the tide recedes can be a rewarding experience. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and be aware of your surroundings, especially near the water. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Mystery of the Pirate Tower
Despite its name, the tower was never actually used by pirates. Its whimsical, fairytale-like appearance has led to comparisons with Rapunzel's tower, adding to its charm and mystique. +1 The tower stands approximately 60 feet tall and is a beloved landmark in Laguna Beach, drawing visitors who are captivated by its unique architecture and coastal setting. While the tower itself is a striking visual, it's important to note that it is not open for public entry. The structure is locked and serves purely as a picturesque landmark.
The surrounding beach and tide pools also contribute to the overall enchanting experience of visiting this unique spot. Visiting the Pirate Tower offers a glimpse into a bygone era of coastal living and adds a touch of fantasy to a day at the beach. Its accessibility is a key factor in the visitor experience, making tide charts an essential part of planning your adventure.
Navigating Victoria Beach: Access and Amenities
+1 From PCH, you'll need to walk down residential streets to reach the sandy shore. This walk can be a bit steep but offers rewarding ocean views along the way. Once on the beach, the Pirate Tower is a short walk north, around a rocky outcrop. Crucially, the tower is only accessible during low tide. Visitors must consult tide charts before their visit, as high tide can completely submerge the path, making it unsafe or impossible to reach.
It's important to be aware that Victoria Beach and the Pirate Tower area lack public restrooms and other amenities.
Visitors should plan accordingly by using facilities before arriving and carrying any necessary items. Despite these limitations, the unique charm of the Pirate Tower and the natural beauty of Victoria Beach make it a worthwhile destination for those seeking a memorable coastal experience. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit