Alder Creek Beach in Big Sur, CA

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About Alder Creek Beach in Big Sur, California

About seven miles north of the San Luis Obispo and Monterey County line is a spot along Highway 1 with two wooden benches facing the ocean. There is room for a few cars at this location. Behind a locked gate is a road that leads down to two rocky coves separated by a point with a huge rock standing tall. The larger northern cove is where the Alder Creek drainage empties into the sea. This area is managed by Los Padres National Forest. While this is no sandy beach, it is the only public beach access point for a fifteen mile stretch of this rugged Big Sur coast. Fishing is probably the best use of this access, but it’s still worth a stop to check out the view and maybe even go for a walk. Across the highway is the Alder Creek Botanical Area in Silver Peak Wilderness. The Cruikshank Trail begins nearby and climbs up high for incredible views on a day-hike or overnight backpacking trip.

Address: Cabrillo Hwy
Big Sur, CA 93920
Park Name: Los Padres National Forest, Silver Peak Wilderness, Alder Creek Botanical Area
Owner: National Forest
Pet Details: Dogs allowed on leash
Fees: Free parking
Activities: Fishing, Walking, Hiking, Backpacking
Amenities: Benches, Trails, No Facilities
Links: Surfing Info & Web Cams
Water Temps
Tide Chart