If you're ever driving on the 5 between San Diego and Los Angeles and traffic is miserable (always), consider making a stop at Dana Point to check out the tide pools. The best place is behind the Ocean Institute which offers plenty of free parking and a short walk behind the building will quickly get you to the tide pools.

Be sure to check the tide levels and try to go at low tide or no tide to see more sea critters. On the weekends there are docents at low tide and the Ocean Institute offers some guided tours. The best pools are found after walking over the rocks for quite a while, which isn't that far but the rocks can slow you down. Stay to the right by the cliff wall and there is a makeshift path that will ease the difficulty.

Once you find a spot to head closer to the tide pools be very careful not only that you don't slip, as the rocks can be slippery, but be sure you don't step on any animals or plants! You are likely to see lots of crabs, anemones, sea stars and if you're lucky you could see an octopus or a sea lion!

Keep an eye out for the tide so you don't get trapped and have to get wet heading back. Hopefully by this time the traffic has cleared and you can head back on your way.