Is Little River State Beach good for swimming today?
Little River State Beach has BeachFinder Score: 64/100. Use this as a planning signal only, then check local flags, lifeguards, closures and current beach conditions.
BeachFinder184,900 swim spots worldwideLive communityNo recent reports here yet — be the first when you're on the sand.
Back to site
US-W - US
Little River State Beach
No reviews yet
Shared BeachFinder spot: compare live conditions, water temperature, wind, UV, waves, currents, amenities and nearby alternatives before you leave.
Type
Beach
Rating
Rate it
Flag
Local spot
Lifeguard
Check locally
Quick answer
Quick answer: Little River State Beach today
Little River State Beach is a BeachFinder spot in US-W, US. Today, compare water temperature 14°C, wind 12 km/h · NW, uv 3.4, waves 2.4 m, water quality Check official advisories before leaving. BeachFinder Score: 64/100. Always check official flags, closures and lifeguard advice before swimming.
Water temperature
14°C
Wind
12 km/h · NW
UV
3.4
Waves
2.4 m
Water quality
Check official advisories
Last updated: Nov 5, 01:30 PM local forecast timeBeachFinder Score: 64/100
Sources: Open-Meteo weather and marine forecasts, OpenStreetMap place context and BeachFinder spot data.
This is planning information, not a safety clearance. Conditions can change quickly.
Help improve this beach page
Add a visitor note or a real photo. Contributions go to BeachFinder moderation before they appear on the public page or in the app.
Photos and reviews are checked before publication. Do not upload private people, license plates or copyrighted material.
Live conditions on the site
Surfers can check wind, wave height, currents and surf cues here before opening the full BeachFinder app.
Updated: Nov 5, 01:30 PM
Water temp
14°C
Air temp
17°C
Feels like
15°C
UV index
3.4
Wind
12 km/h · NW
Gust 17 km/h
Waves
2.4 m
Current
1 km/h · S
Parking
...
Shower
...
Accessible access
...
Toilets
...
Restaurants
...
Weather and marine data: Open-Meteo
Little River State Beach
Little River State Beach extends along the northern California coast, in Humboldt County, about 1.6 km southwest of Moonstone Beach and 2.3 km from Clam Beach. This section of the North Pacific coastline is characterized by a succession of coves and sandy stretches framed by wooded cliffs and rocky outcrops typical of the region. The shore, subject to the powerful currents of the Pacific Ocean, has a wild and undeveloped coastal profile, where the coastal forest descends to the first pebble ridges. The beach itself offers a raw and undeveloped character, contrasting with the more formal facilities of its immediate neighbors. Unlike Moonstone Beach, located 1.6 km to the north, which benefits from better accessibility, Little River State Beach retains a more secluded atmosphere. The absence of major infrastructure lends the site a particular intimacy, where visitors are confronted with the natural dynamics of the coast: pronounced tides, constant spray, and resistant coastal vegetation. Swimming here remains adventurous, subject to variable oceanic conditions and the inherent risks of this North Pacific region. No standard tourist facilities are reported on site. The beach is not Blue Flag certified and offers no lifeguard supervision. Access for people with reduced mobility is not provided. Its status as a wild beach makes it a favorite spot for visitors seeking an unmediated coastal experience, far from marked trails.
About this spot
The name 'Little River' refers to the small stream that flows into this section of the Humboldt coast, a common geographical feature in several coves in the region. This coastal area, dominated by redwood and Sitka spruce forests, is part of one of Northern California's wildest regions. Historically, Humboldt County developed around logging and fishing, and these small beaches remain testaments to this traditional coastal economy. Unlike the large beach resorts of Southern California, these coves remain largely frequented by shell collectors and local fishermen rather than mass tourism.
Updated 5/9/2026
Frequently asked questions
What is the water temperature at Little River State Beach today?
14°C. Marine temperature is shown when forecast coverage is available for this location.
How windy is Little River State Beach today?
12 km/h · NW. Wind can change comfort and surface conditions, especially on exposed beaches.
What should I check before swimming at Little River State Beach?
Check official safety flags, lifeguard advice, closures, water-quality advisories, UV, wind, waves and currents before entering the water.
Before you go
Conditions
Compare water temperature, air temperature, feels-like temperature, UV index, wind, waves and currents. Surf-focused data appears when a marine model covers the spot.
Amenities
BeachFinder checks parking, showers, toilets, accessible places and restaurants around the spot with OpenStreetMap and shows them in the counters and map.
BeachFinder
Other nearby spots
Compare nearby alternatives if conditions change, parking is full, or you want a calmer spot.
Stay nearby
Hotels and rentals near Little River State Beach
Compare accommodation around this beach after checking current swimming conditions and local access. Prices and availability come from the accommodation partner.
Little River State Beach
Accommodation mapAffiliate accommodation partner