Gerstle Cove Beach

Gerstle Cove Beach is directly below the visitor center building in Salt Point State Park. The waters in Gerstle Cove are protected by Gerstle Cove State Marine Reserve so fishing is not allowed in this area. It is popular for scuba diving and tidepooling however.

The beach here is rocky, as most Salt Point State Park beaches are, but this one is easy to get to. There are hiking trails that meander throughout the park and even some rolling mountain biking trails. Several camping areas can be found nearby in this southern portion of the park on both sides of Highway 1. They can be reserved online via ReserveCaliforia.

Gerstle Cove is somewhat sheltered by Salt Point, but watch the waves in this area that can crash violently and are unpredictable. When it is calm and the tide is out the cove’s tidepools are exposed for careful investigation.

If you are looking for a sandy beach in this state park, head to Stump Beach.

Address

25050 Hwy 1
Jenner, CA 95450

Phone

707-847-3221

Park Name

Salt Point State Park, Gerstle Cove State Marine Reserve

Owner

State Park

Pet Details

No dogs allowed on the beach or trails

Fees

Fee for parking, camping

Activities

Scuba Diving, Hiking, Mountain Biking, Equestrian Use, Whale Watching, Camping, Tidepooling, Abalone Diving

Amenities

Campground, Trails, Restrooms, Picnic Tables, Tide Pools

Links

Tide Chart
Water Temps
Aerial View of Gerstle Cove