Pescadero State Beach – South Beach

Pescadero State Beach has a wide beach, large dunes, rocky coves, a rock arch, a protected lagoon, and extensive wetlands. This state park has two distinct beach areas that are divided by the creek mouth. South Beach is a series of small circular rocky coves with sandy bottoms. Unfortunately these cove beaches are all narrow eroding spots that are mostly wet at high tides. They are however, very dramatic settings despite their proximity to Highway 1. The South Beach has two parking areas south of the Highway 1 bridge over the lagoon formed by Butano and Pescadero Creeks. One lot is across from Pescadero Creek Road and one is near the bridge. Both parking lots have trails meandering on the bluff that provide access to the various beaches in this area. At the creek mouth there is a natural rock arch that you can walk through at low tides. If you want a wider sandier beach then head to Pescadero State Beach’s North Beach north of the bridge. Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve is across the highway from the beach and makes a great hiking destination and birding spot. Trails in the preserve begin from the parking lot at Pescadero Creek Road east (inland) of the highway. The protected waters of the creek are good for kayaking or supping.

Address

Pescadero Creek Rd and Cabrillo Hwy
Pescadero, CA 94060

Park Name

Pescadero State Beach, Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve

Owner

State Park

Pet Details

No dogs allowed on beach or in natural areas

Fees

Fee for parking

Activities

Beach Exploration, Birdwatching, Fishing, Hiking, Swimming, Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Amenities

Restrooms, Trails, Nature Preserve, Tide Pools, Picnic Tables, Creek, Lagoon, Rock Arch

Links

Water Quality
Surfing Info & Web Cams
Water Temps
Tide Chart