San Gregorio State Beach
State Park · San Gregorio, California
San Gregorio State Beach lies on the San Mateo County coast along Highway 1, south of Half Moon Bay, where San Gregorio Creek reaches the Pacific. It is a wide, open beach with a large sand sweep, big piles of driftwood washed down the creek and crumbling sandstone bluffs behind. A lagoon forms behind the sand when the creek is blocked, and it draws birds, while a nature trail or two is described in some guides (confirm). Be clear about the sea: the water is cold, rip currents and sleeper waves are real, and swimming is not advised. Fog, wind and cool air are normal even in summer, so bring layers. The beach suits long walks, beachcombing and driftwood forts, and parts of the beach have been used by naturists; confirm. The San Gregorio General Store in the village inland, a famous old store with live music (confirm), is a classic stop. Pomponio and Pescadero beaches lie nearby, and the road itself is a draw.
CA-1, San Gregorio, California, 94074, United States
California State Parks has generally kept the beach open for day use from about 8 AM to sunset - confirm the posted hours and whether the entrance lot is gated. The beach is not staffed all day, and facilities are limited - confirm restrooms and any picnic areas. High surf, storm damage, creek flooding or road work on Highway 1 can close the lot or the access path at short notice, and bluff erosion occasionally closes sections. Fog can linger into the afternoon, and the beach is usually quieter on weekday mornings.
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