Sands Beach offers visitors miles of pristine coastline with tide pools and habitat for wintering and breeding western snowy plovers. The beach is popular for long walks, surfing, watching sunsets, and exploring natural marine life, though natural tar can be present.
What to Expect:
🌊 Tide pools and surf spots
🐦 Snowy plover bird refuge
🚶 Long beach and bluff walks
Important Information:
– Hours: 6 AM to 8 PM daily
– Pets allowed in designated areas
– On-site parking available
– Natural tar common on shore
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🌅 Best Sunset Spots: Head westward along the beach for the most picturesque mountain-framed sunsets.
🐦 Snowy Plover Awareness: Visitors should respect the signage and avoid disturbing the endangered snowy plovers, especially around nesting areas.
🏄♀️ Surfing: The beach is a favored surf spot, especially for intermediate surfers catching cold Pacific waves.
👣 Long Beach Walks: Explore the extended shoreline and bluff trails for scenic and quiet strolls, especially at low tide.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Sands Beach is highly praised for its natural beauty, tide pools, and bird refuge, especially snowy plovers. Visitors enjoy the peaceful walks and spectacular sunsets. Some mention the presence of natural tar on the beach as a minor drawback.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
📆 Best Times to Visit
Best to visit mornings or late afternoons for quieter beach, low tide for tide pools, and enjoy sunset views near evening hours.
