Pirate Tower - Victoria Beach

Laguna Beach has a secret Pirate Tower burrowed at the edge of a cliff at Victoria Beach.

The mysterious Pirate Tower looks like it was taken right out of a fairy tale; I knew I had to add this hidden gem to my bucket list. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the Pirate Tower at Victoria Beach.

Things To Know Before Visiting The Pirate Tower

Free
Located at 2700 Victoria Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
No public parking – Victoria beach is in a residential area, you must find parking along Pacific Coast Highway
The Pirate Tower is inaccessible and very dangerous at high tide (Check tide charts before planning a visit)
While you can admire the Pirate Tower from below, you can not go inside, as the tower and the home above is private property.

The History of the Pirate Tower

So you’re probably wondering who built the Pirate Tower? Ironically, this seaside attraction started as a private staircase for Los Angeles senator, William E. Brown. The sixty foot tower was built in 1926 for access to the beach from his home.

Why Is It Called The Pirate Tower?

In the 1940s, Brown sold his home to naval captain and pirate aficionado, Harold Kendrick. Kendrick would dress up as a pirate, hide cash and candy inside the tower for the local children. Locals began calling the tower, the Pirate tower. The tower is now abandoned and locked, but provides a great attraction for tourists and photographers.

Pirate Tower Parking

When using Google Maps, put in Victoria Beach as your destination. When you get close to Victoria Drive and Sunset Terrace, park your car along Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). There is free and metered parking. The stairs that lead to Victoria Beach are located in a residential area and there is no parking available. Be sure to read the signs so you don’t get a ticket.

When To Visit The Pirate Tower

The best time to visit the Pirate Tower is on week days in the morning since parking can be scarce. If visiting on a weekend, be sure to arrive early and check the tide charts before planning a visit.

How to Get To The Pirate Tower

Once you park, head down Victoria Drive until you see a flight of stairs in between two houses.

The stairs will lead you to the beach. Head to the right and you’ll pass a natural ocean pool, then the tower will be straight ahead.

I recommend wearing shoes that are waterproof and have a good grip if you plan to climb the rocks.

The Pirate Tower is a great place for a weekend getaway, scenic walk or a seaside picnic. Downtown Laguna is right down the road and has several restaurants, art galleries and shops as well.

Brittney Lewis

tRAVELING Artist + Outdoor Enthusiast

ByBrijé is where I share weekend travel guides, trip inspiration and my creative endeavors. I’m currently wandering along the west coast painting colorful landscapes. Come along as I share the magic of the outdoors.

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