Pescadero State Beach: Coastal Beauty and Marshland Wonders
Discover the wild beauty of Pescadero State Beach: where sandy shores meet rocky cliffs and a vibrant marsh teems with life along California's stunning Highway 1.
Pescadero State Beach, a stunning stretch of California coastline, offers a diverse landscape of sandy coves, rocky cliffs, and fascinating tide pools. Located along Highway 1, about 14.5 miles south of Half Moon Bay, this beach is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Across the highway lies the Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve, a vital wetland ecosystem and birdwatcher's paradise. Whether you're exploring the tide pools teeming with marine life, strolling along the mile-long shoreline, or observing the diverse wildlife in the marsh, Pescadero State Beach provides a memorable coastal experience. Keep an eye out for harbor seals basking on offshore rocks, and be sure to dress warmly, as the coastal winds can be brisk. With its natural beauty and opportunities for exploration, Pescadero State Beach is a must-visit destination on the San Mateo County coast.
A brief summary to Pescadero State Beach
- California, US
Local tips
- Check the tide charts before your visit to explore the tide pools at low tide for the best viewing of marine life.
- Dress in layers, as the coastal weather can change quickly; windbreakers and long pants are recommended.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching in the Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve; it's a haven for diverse bird species.
- Visit during sunset for breathtaking views over the Pacific Ocean; the central parking lot offers a great vantage point.
- Consider a weekday visit to avoid weekend crowds, especially during peak season.
Getting There
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Driving
From Highway 1, Pescadero State Beach is accessible via three parking lots. The northern lot is located just before Pescadero Creek, with the payment kiosk. The central lot is immediately after the bridge crossing the creek. The southern lot is at the intersection of Highway 1 and Pescadero Creek Road. Parking costs $8, payable upon entry. Payment can be made at the self-registration station in the northern lot using US currency or checks. Ensure the payment stub is visible on your dashboard.
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Public Transport
While Pescadero is not directly served by extensive public transport, the San Mateo County Transit District (SamTrans) route 17 connects to the nearby town of Pescadero. From the Stage Road & Pescadero Creek Road stop in Pescadero, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service for the final 1.5 miles to Pescadero State Beach. Bus fare is approximately $2.05. A taxi or rideshare may cost between $15-$25 for the short trip to the beach.
Discover more about Pescadero State Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pigeon Point Lighthouse
9.1 km
Explore Pigeon Point Lighthouse, a historic gem on California's coast, offering stunning views, rich maritime history, and unforgettable experiences.
Allen Peak
17.4 km
Experience the rich history and stunning views at Allen Peak, a tranquil landmark nestled in the heart of Woodside, California.
Methuselah Tree (Sequoia sempervirens)
18.7 km
Explore the Methuselah Tree in Woodside, CA – a magnificent Sequoia that stands tall as a symbol of nature's beauty and resilience.
The Couple Bench
22.0 km
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Skull of a Blue Whale
22.8 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Skull of a Blue Whale in Half Moon Bay, a historical landmark that celebrates marine life and highlights the critical importance of ocean conservation efforts.
Horse Statue
23.4 km
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Vista Hill
23.6 km
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Filoli Historic House & Garden
24.8 km
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Stanford Hills Park
26.0 km
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Pulgas Water Temple
26.0 km
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Ralph D. Percival Memorial Vista Point
26.1 km
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Stanford Dish
26.3 km
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Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve
26.3 km
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Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve
26.4 km
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Skylawn Funeral Home, Memorial Park & Crematory
26.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Paisley Rock
0.3 km
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Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park
9.1 km
Explore Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park, a stunning blend of coastal beauty, rich history, and nature's wonders in California.
Memorial County Park
10.9 km
Discover towering redwoods, tranquil trails, and family camping in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains at Memorial County Park.
Butano State Park
11.0 km
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Sam McDonald Park
13.7 km
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Heritage Grove
14.4 km
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La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve
14.5 km
Discover rolling grasslands, redwood forests, and historic ranchlands in this expansive San Mateo County preserve. Hiking, views, and natural beauty await.
Año Nuevo State Park
15.3 km
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El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve
17.2 km
Discover redwood forests, unique sandstone formations, and remnants of logging history on over 34 miles of trails in this revitalized Santa Cruz Mountains preserve.
Cowell Ranch Beach Access
17.8 km
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Big Basin Redwoods State Park
17.9 km
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Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve
18.4 km
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Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
18.5 km
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California Coastal Trail
18.8 km
Explore the breathtaking California Coastal Trail in Half Moon Bay: scenic bluffs, beaches, and panoramic Pacific Ocean views await!
Portola Redwoods State Park
19.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Parkside Grille
20.9 km
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The Mountain House
21.2 km
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Madera
24.9 km
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El Cerrito
26.3 km
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Dutch Goose
26.6 km
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Flea Street
26.6 km
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Redwood Grill
27.0 km
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Canyon Inn
27.0 km
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CORNER TABLE
27.2 km
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Cafe Wisteria
28.7 km
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Vina Enoteca
28.8 km
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Tootsie's At The Stanford Barn
28.8 km
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Camper
29.0 km
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Galata Bistro Mediterranean Grill
29.1 km
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Selby's
29.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shady Lane
26.2 km
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Sharon Heights Shopping Center
26.2 km
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Menloville Country Store
26.9 km
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Rehreh threads & goods
27.1 km
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Joy Imai Pottery Studio
28.7 km
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La Layette Boutique
28.7 km
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Stanford Barn Shopping Center
28.8 km
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Nordstrom
28.9 km
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Alys Grace
28.9 km
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Draeger's Market
28.9 km
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ANTHEM San Francisco in Menlo Park
28.9 km
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Anatomie Menlo Park
29.0 km
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Luminaire Menlo Park
29.0 km
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Gitane
29.1 km
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bijoux bijoux
29.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Village Pub
23.4 km
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Pool Garden Terrace at Rosewood Sand Hill
24.9 km
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The Library & Bar
24.9 km
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Saddle Room Bar
27.1 km
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Villa Roma
28.5 km
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Gemelos Cantina & Sports Bar
29.3 km
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The Field Club
29.4 km
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The Hub RWC
29.5 km
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Sodini's
29.5 km
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CRU Wine Bar & Shop
29.6 km
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Hidden Tap And Barrel Redwood City
29.6 km
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Bobby D's Cocktail Lounge & Sports Bar
29.7 km
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MacArthur Park Restaurant and Bar
29.7 km
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840 Wine Bar & Cocktail Lounge
29.8 km
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Mazzocco's Club
29.8 km
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