Paisley Rock
Paisley Rock: Coastal Beauty on Highway 1
Pescadero State Beach: Coastal Beauty and Marshland Wonders
Discover sandy shores, rocky cliffs, and abundant wildlife at this coastal gem and natural preserve along Highway 1 near Pescadero.
Pescadero State Beach, located along Highway 1, offers a mile-long shoreline with sandy coves, rocky cliffs, and tide pools. Adjacent to the Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve, it's a haven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Pescadero State Beach
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
California, US
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Getting There
Driving
Pescadero State Beach is located on Highway 1, approximately 14.5 miles south of Half Moon Bay. From Highway 1, turn into one of the three parking lots on the western side of the road. Parking costs $8 per vehicle. Payment can be made at the self-registration kiosk in the northern parking lot. Only US currency and checks are accepted.
Public Transport
The San Mateo County Transit route 17 serves Pescadero State Beach. Check the SamTrans website for the most up-to-date schedules and fare information. From the bus stop, follow the path to the beach. A one-way bus fare costs approximately $2.05.
Local tips
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Check the tide charts before visiting to make the most of the tide pools.
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Bring layers, as the weather can change quickly.
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Be aware that dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the marsh.
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Parking fee is $8, payable upon entry to the park.
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Visit the nearby town of Pescadero for local insights and historic charm.
Discover more about Pescadero State Beach
Pescadero State Beach is a captivating coastal destination in San Mateo County, California, offering a diverse landscape of sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and the adjacent Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve. The beach itself is divided by Pescadero Creek, with a wider, sandier beach to the north and a rockier beach to the south.
The northern beach stretches towards Pomponio and San Gregorio State Beaches, depending on the tide. The southern beach features rocky coves and tide pools, providing a habitat for marine life such as harbor seals and Steller sea lions. Across Highway 1 lies the Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve, a 235-acre wetland that supports a variety of wildlife, including steelhead fish, blue herons, kites, deer, raccoons, foxes, and skunks.
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities at Pescadero State Beach, including beach wandering, bird watching, and exploring the tide pools. Hiking trails wind through the marsh, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting. Please note that dogs, camping, and fires are not allowed on the beach or in the natural preserve. The Sequoia Audubon Trail will be closed from May 2025 - October 2025 for habitat restoration.
The town of Pescadero, located a short distance from the beach, offers a glimpse into California's past with its historic buildings and farming community.
A brief summary to Pescadero State Beach
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