This Winter Phenomenon On The California Coast Brings Some Of The Best Tide Pooling Of The Year Near SF — Here’s When And Where

2025 king tides have arrived along the California coast, making for an especially dramatic experience at local beaches. The highest tides of the year, known colloquially as the “king tides” and technically as the “perigean spring tides,” are predictable winter phenomena that occur during the alignment of the sun, moon, and Earth during new and [full moons](https://secretsanfrancisco.com/a-dazzling-supermoon-will-rise-this-week-and-here-are-the-best-spots-to-see-it-in-san-francisco/). As a result, high tides rise 1 to 2 feet higher than average — and during low tide, habitats that are usually underwater are revealed for some next-level tide pooling. The first of three king tide periods already occurred last week, from November 5-7, 2025 . We can expect the next ones from December 4-6, 2025 , and January 1-3, 2026. Risks and safety tips during the king tides ------------------------------------------- While exciting, the king tides can result in some potentially risky situations on the California coast. Here are a few things to know if you’re planning to spend time on the beach this winter. Firstly, it’s essential to check the tide and weather forecasts when visiting coastal areas during the king tides, to be aware when the most powerful waves and potential flooding could occur. NOAA’s Tides & Currents map is a dependable resource for official U.S. tide predictions, real-time and historical flood data, coastal condition forecasts, and more. You can also visit their webpage about the king tides for more resources. While the king tides can create risky conditions on their own, that risk is exacerbated if seasonal strong surf and winter storms occur. This can cause flooding in low-lying areas, erosion, road closures, and beach closures. If you decide to explore tidepools or walk on the beach, make sure you wear sturdy shoes and always visit with a buddy. Keep an eye out for sneaker waves, stay away from the water’s edge, and of course, follow the biggest rule of thumb: never turn your back to the ocean. Tide pooling around the Bay Area -------------------------------- While king high tides can, of course, create some hazardous conditions on the beach, king low tides can reveal spectacular underwater tide pools that are usually fully submerged. This creates a good opportunity to see creatures like sea anemones, starfish, crabs, urchins, and more. If you live near the coast in the Bay Area, you’re likely well-located to go tide pooling at places like Duxbury Reef Reserve in Bolinas, Fitzgerald Marine Reserve in Moss Beach, and Bean Hollow State Beach near Pescadero. Santa Cruz’s Natural Bridges is also a great place to go tide pooling, especially if you can see the migrating monarch butterflies. See a full list of our favorite local tide pooling spots here. When embarking on a tide pooling adventure, make sure you always respect local guidelines and warnings. Follow the tips we mentioned above, and don’t disturb anything in the tide pools. Source: https://secretsanfrancisco.com/king-tides-san-francisco-california/