Gray Whale Cove State Beach: A Coastal Retreat
Discover a secluded cove with dramatic cliffs, migrating whales, and hiking trails in Half Moon Bay's Gray Whale Cove State Beach.
Gray Whale Cove State Beach, also known as Devil's Slide, is a secluded cove in Half Moon Bay, California, known for its dramatic cliffs and migrating gray whales. This 3.1-acre park offers a serene escape with a small sandy beach, hiking trails, and stunning ocean views.
A brief summary to Gray Whale Cove State Beach
- Half Moon Bay, California, 94019, US
- +1650-726-8819
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure parking, as the lot is small and fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
- Wear layers, as coastal weather can change rapidly; it may get windy or foggy.
- Exercise caution when crossing Highway 1 to access the beach, as traffic can be heavy and there are no crosswalks.
- Bring your own water, as it is not available at the park.
Getting There
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Driving
From Half Moon Bay, head north on Highway 1 for approximately 9.5 miles. The parking lot for Gray Whale Cove State Beach is located on the east side of the highway. Use caution when crossing the highway to access the beach. Parking is free. Limited parking is available, so arrive early.
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Public Transport
From San Francisco, take the BART to the San Bruno station. From there, transfer to a taxi or rideshare service to Gray Whale Cove State Beach. The taxi ride will take approximately 25 minutes and cost between $40-$60. Alternatively, take SamTrans bus route 110 or 292 from the Millbrae BART station towards Half Moon Bay. Exit the bus and walk approximately 1 mile south to Gray Whale Cove State Beach.
Discover more about Gray Whale Cove State Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic U.S. Coast Guard Station "NMC"
7.9 km
Explore the Historic U.S. Coast Guard Station NMC in Pacifica, CA, a landmark reflecting maritime heritage and stunning coastal views.
Portolà Expedition Camp Historical Landmark
9.3 km
Explore the Portolà Expedition Camp in Millbrae, a captivating historical landmark that reveals California's early exploration and rich heritage.
Sitio Historico Rudy Valencia
12.4 km
Discover the rich heritage at Sitio Historico Rudy Valencia, an iconic historical landmark in South San Francisco, perfect for history buffs and nature lovers.
Skull of a Blue Whale
12.5 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.
Carolands Chateau
12.6 km
Explore the stunning Carolands Chateau, a historical landmark in California that offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Gilded Age.
South San Francisco American Revolution bicentennial Observation committee capsule
13.5 km
Explore the American Revolution Bicentennial Capsule in South San Francisco, a historical landmark that reflects on the nation's independence and rich heritage.
Skylawn Funeral Home, Memorial Park & Crematory
14.7 km
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The Last Stagecoach Hold-up in San Mateo County
14.9 km
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James Johnston House
15.1 km
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Ernest Coxhead House
16.0 km
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Eugene J. De Sabla, Jr., Teahouse and Tea Garden
16.1 km
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Daly City History Museum
16.3 km
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San Bruno Mountain State & County Park
16.3 km
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De Anza Historical Park
16.3 km
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Historical Marker: Pacific City
16.7 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Devil's Slide Trail (South Parking Lot)
0.9 km
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Pacifica State Beach
4.0 km
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California Historical Landmark No. 394
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Half Moon Bay Distillery
7.0 km
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Quarry Park
8.3 km
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Junipero Serra Park
9.5 km
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Half Moon Bay State Beach
10.8 km
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Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail
11.8 km
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SFO Museum Louis A. Turpen Aviation Museum and Library
12.4 km
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Bayfront Park
12.9 km
Escape to Bayfront Park in Millbrae for stunning bay views, plane spotting, and tranquil outdoor recreation near San Francisco International Airport.
South San Francisco Conference Center
13.3 km
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Half Moon Bay
13.5 km
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City of Burlingame Shorebird Sanctuary
13.6 km
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Coastside History Museum
13.6 km
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Junipero Serra Statue
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Essential places to dine
Taste Of Burma
10.9 km
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Chibog
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Minari
11.1 km
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Lucky Chances Casino
13.9 km
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Inshallah Mediterranean Cuisine
14.3 km
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Dahab express
14.3 km
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Wong's Cafe
14.5 km
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Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
14.6 km
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Los Cuates Taqueria
14.7 km
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UNI Pizzeria & Grill
14.7 km
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Red Bowl Noodles
15.4 km
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Jollibee
15.4 km
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L&L Hawaiian Barbecue - DC
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The Original Kadok’s Restaurant
15.4 km
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Iguana Azul
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Galleri
12.8 km
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Kohl's
13.2 km
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Lester's Flower Shop
13.3 km
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Olivet Flower Shop
14.1 km
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Quick Pick Market & Deli
14.3 km
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Hillside Market Mr. Liquor
14.4 km
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Hillside Tires
14.6 km
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Cesar's Tires
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7-Eleven
14.6 km
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Ramirez Produce Market & Carniceria
14.6 km
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Shell
14.7 km
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The Market Place Shopping Center
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Plaza Liquor Deli
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Happy Donuts
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Loop Neighborhood Market
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hula Hoops Restaurant & Tiki Bar
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Molloy's
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Thai Satay Restaurant & Bar
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The Field Club
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A R
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Nick & Nora
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Lava Hookah Lounge & Grill
16.6 km
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Thai Power Restaurant
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Wunderbar
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Sky Lounge
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O'Neills Irish Pub
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Fogbird
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A2
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Mortar & Pestle Bar
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Eddie's Sports Bar
16.8 km
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