College Cove in Trinidad, CA - California Beaches

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About College Cove in Trinidad, California

College Cove Beach is in the north cove of Trinidad State Beach in the small town of Trinidad. College Cove has a more secluded feel than the main state beach near Trinidad Head.

Pewetole Island is the large tree-covered rock that marks the division of the two coves. Rocks in the sand and in the surf make this a popular spot for photography, especially at sunset. At low tide you can walk through a rock arch called “The Portal” that separates College Cove from the main state beach. In the wet season and after heavy rain, you’ll find College Cove Falls tumbling down a small cliff at the back of the beach.

Hiking trails in the park allow you to explore the forested land and discover incredible viewpoints on Elk Head, Omenoku Point, and Megwil Point just north of College Cove.

There is a separate parking lot for the College Cove portion of the state beach. From downtown Trinidad drive out Stagecoach Road ignoring the first signed entrance for Trinidad State Beach and look for a road signed for College Cove and Elk Head (3/4 miles from town).

From the parking lot a wide trail leads west toward Elk Head. To find the beach turn left off this wide trail onto an unsigned narrow trail that immediately descends.

In the past College Cove Beach had a reputation as a clothing-optional beach, but nudity is not allowed at state parks.