Gray Whale Cove State Beach — Attraction in Pacifica

My experience relates to driving past this beach since 1988 when I moved to the Coastside. It is located between Pacifica (through the Tunnel) and Montara, the first town on the south side of the Tom Lantos Tunnel. {It is 9 more traffic-clogged miles to Half Moon Bay from Gray Whale Cove.} This Beach is “clothing optional” at one end, making Montara State Beach far more attractive to families with children in tow. The beach is down a steep hillside, and the parking lot is on the East side of the highway, yet I constantly see beach goers dragging Coolers, Beach chairs and young kids across a State Highway without the benefit of a traffic signal in order to hike down to the small beach. On the other hand, less than a mile south, Montara State Beach has a parking lot located on the West side of Hwy One (so no Jaywalking) or need to drag children across the Highway .....And San Mateo County has recently installed a minimum number of Picnic tables too! The Beach at Montara is expansive, easier to walk down to and one can watch surfers and sea birds from the shore or afterwards grab a bite and at La Costernera on the southern end, overlooking the beach or grab a sandwich s bit further south at...

single mom with 12 year old boys It was a very beautiful cove, dog friendly, with very little people but I’m rating as someone who needs kid friendly and a swim-able surf. The parking lot is ACROSS the beach. There is a very busy highway in between and the access happens to be right after a turn from oncoming traffic.

There are a good amount of stairs down to the cove. When it opens up it’s very pretty but the way back after some beach time could be difficult with littles.

The portapottys are also at the parking lot, meaning if one of the kids really has to go you’ll have to hike all the way up and cross that dangerous hwy again. The beach was also not the cleanest because of no trash bins (one next to the portapotty) but could have been way worse.

To top it off there is an unofficial nude beach just north of the cove. My boys had a good giggle seeing two grown men take a leisurely stroll completely nude thankfully we were a good distance.

It would be perfect for a date for two adults with a pop up tent , some snacks , and lots of time to...

Gray Whale Cove State Beach, located off Highway 1, is a true gem along the California coast. My recent visit to this scenic spot was nothing short of spectacular. The first thing that strikes you is the breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled between dramatic cliffs and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, the beach offers stunning panoramic views that are perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. The water, although cold, is crystal clear and adds to the pristine feel of the place.The beach itself is impeccably clean, making it a pleasant spot for a relaxing day out. I particularly enjoyed the trail that meanders through the area, providing opportunities to explore the surrounding nature. For those looking to get down to the beach, there's a well-maintained ladder that makes the descent easy and safe.

Overall, Gray Whale Cove State Beach is a must-visit for anyone traveling along Highway 1. Its serene environment, coupled with the untouched beauty of the landscape, makes it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of...