Ever wonder what lies beyond the edge of these cliffs? I am here to tell you all about Christmas Tree Cove. This cove sits nestled along the Palos Verdes Peninsula. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adventurous access.
Christmas Tree Cove is next to Honeymoon Cove. Drive south on Paseo del Mar. You will notice Christmas Tree Cove to the right. The street narrows at this point. This area is interesting because of a past landslide. You cannot see the cove from the street. Get out of the car and walk towards the edge of the cliffs to see it.
Long ago, scientists recognized the Palos Verdes Peninsula as a tectonic fault block. It rose from the sea. Once an island, alluvial deposits connected it to the mainland. This created the peninsula we see today.
To get to Christmas Tree Cove, take Palos Verdes Drive West. This scenic road winds through the cliffs. You can reach the cove about 12 to 18 miles from Los Angeles International Airport. It is also accessible from other beach cities. These include Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach.
Christmas Tree Cove is known for its challenging access. The hike down to the cove is steep and can be slippery. Expect a bit of a climb over rocks. Some visitors find the trail fun. Others describe it as perilous. One diver even joked about cutting themself “to death” trying to haul gear down. Despite the difficult access, many find the cove worth the effort.
Once you reach the cove, you will find nice snorkeling along the shoreline. There is a small kelp forest in the middle. The best diving is on the reef beyond the cove. At low tide, the high spot breaks the surface. Follow this reef south. Discover overhangs, walls, lobsters, sponges, fish, and nudibranchs. The east side of the reef features vertical walls as high as fifteen feet. The reef stretches to eighty feet. It ends at the sandy plain.
Visibility in the cove can be quite good. Some divers report seeing 10 to 15 feet. Divers have spotted rays in the cove. One snorkeler saw a leopard shark. They also saw a large bat ray in the shallow spot. The cove has sea urchin beds and starfish. Thin green schools of fish swim among the rocks. Six-inch blue fish dart about. Something big that looks like a trout might also make an appearance.
Remember that getting to the water requires navigating steep terrain. The trails are not maintained. People sometimes need rescuing. Always assess the situation carefully. Pay attention to sea conditions and tides.
If you plan to explore Christmas Tree Cove, bring water. Snacks are also a good idea. There are no restrooms on-site. Restrooms are available at nearby shopping centers.
Nearby, you can find Golden Cove. You can also find RAT Beach, Malaga Cove, and Abalone Cove. Consider hiking the Golden Cove Trail. It connects to other scenic spots. These include the Vicente Bluffs Reserve and the Point Vicente Lighthouse.
After your visit to Christmas Tree Cove, explore the Golden Cove Shopping Center. This compact area has restaurants, a coffee shop, and a supermarket. For a fine dining experience, visit the Terranea Resort. It offers ocean views.
Christmas Tree Cove invites those seeking natural beauty. It also calls to those seeking adventurous exploration. Its challenging access and diverse marine life create an unforgettable experience. Just remember to tread carefully and respect the environment. You will be rewarded with the cove’s hidden treasures.