Pescadero State Beach: Coastal Beauty and Marshland Wonders
Discover sandy coves, rocky cliffs, and abundant wildlife at Pescadero State Beach, a natural gem on the San Mateo County coast.
Pescadero State Beach, located along Highway 1 in San Mateo County, offers a mile-long shoreline with sandy coves, rocky cliffs, and tide pools. Across the highway lies the Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve, a haven for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. It's a classic California coast experience with opportunities for strolling, fishing, and exploring the diverse ecosystem.
A brief summary to Pescadero State Beach
- California, US
Local tips
- Check the tide charts before visiting to make the most of the tide pools and beach walking opportunities.
- Bring layers, as the coast can be windy and cool, even on sunny days.
- Parking costs $8, payable at the self-registration kiosk in the northern parking lot.
- Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the natural preserve.
- Pack a picnic, as there are no food concessions available at the beach.
Getting There
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Driving
Pescadero State Beach is located on Highway 1, approximately 14.5 miles south of Half Moon Bay. From Highway 1, look for the signs indicating the beach entrances. There are three parking lots available: North, Central, and South, each providing access to different parts of the beach and marsh. Parking costs $8 per vehicle, payable at the self-registration kiosk in the northern parking lot. Note that parking can be limited, especially on weekends and during peak season.
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Public Transport
While there isn't a direct public transportation route to Pescadero State Beach, you can take the Line 292 bus from San Francisco to Millbrae BART, then a taxi to the beach. The bus fare is approximately $2.05, and the taxi fare from Millbrae BART to Pescadero State Beach will range from $120-$160. This journey will take around 1 hour and 49 minutes.
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Walking
If you are already in the vicinity, such as the town of Pescadero (approximately 2 miles east), you can walk to the beach via Pescadero Creek Road. From Pescadero Creek Road, follow the signs to the beach parking lots. Be aware that there is no designated walking path alongside Highway 1, so exercise caution.
Discover more about Pescadero State Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pigeon Point Lighthouse
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Allen Peak
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Methuselah Tree (Sequoia sempervirens)
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The Couple Bench
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Skull of a Blue Whale
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Horse Statue
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Vista Hill
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Filoli Historic House & Garden
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Stanford Hills Park
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Pulgas Water Temple
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Ralph D. Percival Memorial Vista Point
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Stanford Dish
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Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve
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Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve
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Skylawn Funeral Home, Memorial Park & Crematory
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Unmissable attractions to see
Paisley Rock
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Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park
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Memorial County Park
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Butano State Park
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Sam McDonald Park
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Heritage Grove
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La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve
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Año Nuevo State Park
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El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve
17.2 km
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Cowell Ranch Beach Access
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Big Basin Redwoods State Park
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Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve
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Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
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California Coastal Trail
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Portola Redwoods State Park
19.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Parkside Grille
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The Mountain House
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Madera
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El Cerrito
26.3 km
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Dutch Goose
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Flea Street
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Redwood Grill
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Canyon Inn
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CORNER TABLE
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Cafe Wisteria
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Vina Enoteca
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Tootsie's At The Stanford Barn
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Camper
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Galata Bistro Mediterranean Grill
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Selby's
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shady Lane
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Sharon Heights Shopping Center
26.2 km
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Menloville Country Store
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Rehreh threads & goods
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Joy Imai Pottery Studio
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La Layette Boutique
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Stanford Barn Shopping Center
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Nordstrom
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Alys Grace
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Draeger's Market
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ANTHEM San Francisco in Menlo Park
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Anatomie Menlo Park
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Luminaire Menlo Park
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bijoux bijoux
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The Library & Bar
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Saddle Room Bar
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Villa Roma
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Sodini's
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CRU Wine Bar & Shop
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Hidden Tap And Barrel Redwood City
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Bobby D's Cocktail Lounge & Sports Bar
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MacArthur Park Restaurant and Bar
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Mazzocco's Club
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