Pescadero State Beach
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Pescadero Beach

About

The beach has a mile-long shoreline with sandy coves, rocky cliffs, tide pools, fishing spots and picnic facilities. The beach has one of the most extensive dune systems and coastal strand plant communities north of Año Nuevo Point and south of the Golden Gate. Across the highway is Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve, a popular spot for bird watchers and other naturalists. The Preserve is a refuge for blue heron, kites, deer, raccoons, foxes and skunks.

This state park has two distinct beach areas that are divided by the creek mouth. The south beach is a series of small circular rocky coves with sandy bottoms. To explore a wider, sandier beach then head to the north side of the bridge at Pescadero State Beach.

Learn more in the California State Parks brochure.


Operating Hours

Day-Use Area 8 a.m. to Sunset


Directions

The beach is located 14.5 miles south of Half Moon Bay on Highway 1. It is across Highway 1 from Pescadero Creek Road.

Check the Santa Cruz METRO schedule for public transportation options.


Things to do

Beach Area

Visitors enjoy swimming, surfing and fishing

Bird Watching

The 500-acre Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve hosts resident bird species and protects a vital stopping point for migratory species along the Pacific Flyway. Docents lead nature walks in the marsh twice a month: 10 a.m. on the first Sunday of the month and 1 p.m. on the third Sunday of the month. The walks last about two hours.


Fees and Passes

Parking is $8 and supports the park. Credit card payments are encouraged.

Annual State Parks passes also are available to purchase at the entrance kiosk.


Services

  • Restrooms
  • Picnic areas
  • Interpretive programs

Field Trips

School groups grade K-12 can take part in docent-led, hands-on educational programs along the San Mateo Coast. Field trips focused on shoreline habitats are held at Half Moon Bay State Beach, Pescadero Marsh, Montara State Beach and Bean Hollow State Beach. Registration for field trips is now open. Sign up!


Volunteer

Lead nature walks in the only extensive wetland along the coast of the San Francisco Peninsula, which is an important link in the Pacific flyway. Contact Ranger Nelle Lyons at (650) 726-8804, voice mailbox 7# or email to get involved.


History

Pescadero State Beach is in the unceded homelands of the Ohlone Tribe known as the Quiroste and the Oljon, who stewarded these lands since time immemorial. Centuries of colonial violence led to the removal and displacement of the Quiroste and Oljon. Today, their descendants continue their stewardship and presence here, in partnership with State Parks.


Regulations

  • Dogs are prohibited on the beach and in the Natural Preserve at all times.
  • No beach fires are allowed and fireworks are prohibited.
  • Please refrain from removing shells, driftwood and other natural beach features.

Recreate Responsibly

Before you visit, check the Recreate Responsibly page to protect yourself, family, friends and your community by following these measures during your visit.


More Info

(650) 726-8819

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Events at Pescadero State Beach