Pescadero, California a Charming Bay Area Day Trip

Long before the Pacific Coast Highway wound along California’s coastline, the small town of Pescadero served as a stagecoach stop for weary travelers journeying from Santa Cruz to San Francisco. Pescadero is a popular destination for locals and tourists who flock to its beaches and unique little shops. The stretch of shoreline between Pescadero and San Gregorio boasts some of California’s best beaches, where visitors can relax with a picnic and watch the surf pound against the shore’s jagged rocks. With its quaint charm and a touch of history, Pescadero and the surrounding area make for a perfect day trip from San Francisco. Here’s what you might enjoy:

Enjoy a Picnic at Pescadero State Beach

Pescadero State Beach, located just off Highway 1 at Pescadero Creek Road, is the most well-known beach in the area. It features a mile-long shoreline, tide pools, and picnic facilities. The beach connects with San Gregorio and Pomponio State Beaches, providing a larger area to explore during low tide. For those interested in hiking and wildlife observation, the Sequoia Audubon Trail is accessible from the central parking lot and leads to the adjacent Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve. This preserve is a popular destination for bird watchers and other nature enthusiasts. https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=522

Pomponio State Beach: Sandy Beaches and Sea Caves

Pomponio State Beach is located about three miles north of Pescadero Creek Road. It features a well-maintained day-use area with wide sandy beaches, a small lagoon, picnic tables, and barbecues. The beach provides ample space for long walks, exploring tidal pools, and, during low tide, discovering sea caves along the cliffs south of the beach. While dogs are not allowed on the beach, they are permitted on leashes in the picnic areas.

Pigeon Point Light Station: Historic Site -Stunning Views

Just up the road from Pomponio State Beach is Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park, home to a 115-foot 19th-century lighthouse perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This lighthouse is one of the tallest in the United States and has been guiding ships since 1872. Although it is no longer used for navigation, it remains an active U.S. Coast Guard facility. The grounds surrounding the Pigeon Point Light Station are part of the California State Parks system and are open to the public. https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=533

Pick Up Some Cheese at Harley Farms Goat Dairy

Harley Farms is open year-round, offering visitors the chance to experience a working farm and observe the journey of milk as it moves from goat to dairy and transforms into cheese. The farm has a rich history, having been revitalized from a derelict cow dairy into a successful goat dairy operation. Harley Farms specializes in goat milk products, particularly cheeses such as chèvre, fromage blanc, ricotta, and feta. These cheeses have garnered awards at various competitions, highlighting their exceptional quality and the farm’s dedication to traditional cheesemaking methods. https://www.harleyfarms.com/

Butano State Park Hike in The Redwoods

Butano State Park boasts 40 miles of hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore its diverse environments, from moss-draped Douglas firs to scenic views of the canyon and the Pacific Ocean. Trails vary in difficulty, providing options for both novice and experienced hikers. One of the park’s most popular features is a secluded redwood-filled canyon with Little Butano Creek running through it. There is also a campground with 21 drive-in campsites and 18 walk-in campsites. Butano State Park can be found at 1500 Cloverdale Rd, Pescadero, California. https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=536

Dining Options in Pescadero, California

Day Trippers can taste the town’s history at a stop at Duarte’s Tavern, which has served food and spirits since its doors in 1894 and still provides local fare made with fresh, locally grown ingredients today. Diners will delight in crab cioppino and the Tavern’s celebrated cream of artichoke soup. If beachgoers plan a picnic, a trip to the Arcangeli Grocery Company and Norm’s Market for a bottle of local wine and homemade artichoke bread is a must. http://www.duartestavern.com/

Where to Stay in Pescadero, California

For visitors wanting to rake an extra day to explore Pescadero and the surrounding area, lodging options are few but can accommodate any taste and budget. First, the Costanoa Coastal Lodge & Camp has excellent lodge rooms, cozy cabins, tent bungalows, and campsites. Or, for a more romantic atmosphere, the Pescadero Creek Inn Bed and Breakfast has warm, inviting rooms featuring clawfoot tubs. Finally, for an outdoorsy feel with a bit of history, there is the Pigeon Point Lighthouse Hostel, which provides bunkrooms with shared bathrooms next to the lighthouse.

Where is Pescadero, CA

Visiting Pescadero, California, provides a charming and peaceful escape, perfect for nature lovers, food enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to step away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town is easily accessible by car, located 15 miles south of Half Moon Bay and two miles inland from State Highway 1 on Pescadero Creek Road.

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San Francisco Day Trip Ideas

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