I love the stairs to get down (although you could take the sandy way down too) and all the "secret" areas you can uncover on the far side of the beach near the bunker, like the mini waterfall. Tons of little coves and rocky areas to set up picnic stuff or leave items while hanging out. The whole beach and large space near the entrance are available for reservation. A get together there would be so fun!! Huge parking lot -- you can start hiking a few different trails from it, and they do look beautiful based on the photos from other Yelpers. Never busy on weekdays btw. I sadly saw so much trash strewn about around the beach entrance and under the stairs in the form of beer cans, chip bags, and even a Target bag. You know where you parked your car? Yeah, there are actually trash cans, big ones, right there in that parking lot.. like 500ft from where you threw your trash away. Don't be an inconsiderate asshole. I love eating and drinking at the beach, responsibly, but pack up what you bring in. Classless people. read more

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Wow this beach is beautiful. It's hidden. You'll drive past it and won't even know it's there. There's a parking lot but you have to cross the highway to walk down to the beach. Follow the path to the right and it'll eventually lead you to the stairs to go down. It's worth the view! read more

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This is one of my favorite places to go with my dogs. We always have a great time here, and the scenery is absolutely beautiful. it really makes the whole experience special. My dogs love running around, and it's a great way for all of us to enjoy some outdoor time together. One thing to be aware of is the parking situation. It's located to the left of the highway, and you have to carefully cross the road to get down to the beach area. It can feel like a bit of a danger zone, but so far, it's worked out. Most cars are good about stopping and letting you pass, but you definitely have to stay alert and be cautious. The upside is that parking is free, which is a nice bonus. It's usually easy to find a spot on weekdays, but weekends can get pretty busy, so go early if you can. There's also a short hiking trail just above the parking lot, and it offers gorgeous views that make it worth checking out. Between the beach, the views, and the fun for the dogs or kids, this place is a real gem. read more

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Took a stroll on the beach at Gray Whale Cove after a nice long hike on the bluff above it. Totally surprised to find a new staircase down to the beach. It's not as difficult as it used to be climbing rocks to get to the beach. The surf and the beach are beautiful, as are the rocks and sand. This is an isolated strand, appropriate for groups, families, and couples. Be very careful, crossing the highway can be treacherous from the parking lot; make sure to cross at the bend in the road so you can see cars coming. I love it. Highly recommend it to everyone! read more

Gray Whale Cove State Beach - Beaches Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

It's glorious! Hands down my favorite beach to visit when I'm in the Peninsula. I actually realized recently that I've been confusing the name of this beach with Montara State Beach just down the road. I love Montara State Beach, but there IS a difference. For one thing, the access point to Gray Whale Cove isn't the most desirable for your average beach goer. There are stairs (gasp!). Ah yes, those stairs. A few flights and a tad bit steep. Of course, this won't deter too many people away. But what will is the super tiny parking lot and the illegal highway crossing that you have to make to get here. On top of that, the entrance isn't clearly marked. This is another big reason why this beach stays void of the typical crowds that you'd see in Pacifica or nearby Montara State Beach. Most people don't even know that's it's there [Ooopp... just let the cat out of the baggy on this one :/ ). I typically come here after hiking in the area. The parking lot that's right across the street is shared with both hikers and beachgoers, so you can imagine how quickly it fills up. After I've hiked one of the trails in McNee Ranch/Montara mountain, it's super easy to get down to the beach without having to fight for a parking spot. Getting down there is the tough part. I mean, it's not really tough... but if you want to make a day out of it, you're gonna have to lug all of your beach gear down there and all the way back up. But once you make it down there... maaaaan! It is so friggin' stunning. It's a cove, so it feels so much warmer than the other beaches nearby. Plus, the water is so clear and the sand is super soft. Since it's not crowded, it's feels super secluded and it's extremely clean. If you want a nice beach where you can truly relax and read a book or fall asleep to the sound of the waves, THIS is that beach. Most of the times that I've been here, it's been overcast and cloudy. But there are days when the sun decides to peek out and say hello. But even with the clouds; this beach is still a true beauty. The closest restrooms are near the McNee Ranch parking lot across the street (hold your nose because it ain't pretty, folks!). Be careful when you're crossing the highway because the cars zoom by fast. Again, not everybody knows that there's a beach entrance behind those trees. There's also a really neat little swing on a side trail on the way to the beach. I've never been on it myself, but I always see people swinging on it and taking pictures. I try to come here during odd times because I'm sure it's gotten busier during peak season due to COVID. But even with that, this beach has so much to offer. It's super enjoyable. read more

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When you're in the midst of the once notorious Devil's Slide cliffs, you have a number of options to get off precarious Hwy 1 to enjoy the spectacular scenery. Driving south past the Tom Lantos Tunnel, you might've noticed a larger than expected parking area on the left after a particularly blind curve. I'm one of the handful of people who have parked here to hike the hill-hugging trails of McNee Ranch State Park. However, I noticed most people park here only to risk their lives to cross Hwy 1 to walk down the steep wooden staircase to this beach. So is the beach worth this act of reckless abandon? Yes, sure. Because of the dramatic cliffs that have shaped the cove, it provides a nice setting for casual beachcombing and apparently sandcastle-building (photo: https://bit.ly/3zxgHcI). I was here when it was relatively deserted, so I didn't see the purported nude section on the north side of the beach. That was OK since I didn't bring my binoculars anyway. If you have extra time, definitely go back to the parking lot and walk the Gray Whale Cove Trail that begins behind the main sign (review: https://bit.ly/3qT59wm). It's gorgeous...and you don't have to scamper on the raceway pavement unnecessarily. RELATED - Exploring the Pacific side of the peninsula? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/3pY83AD read more

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Driving down through the Devil's Slide Tunnel southbound towards Half Moon Bay, I always saw cars parked off in a dirt lot next to Highway 1. Looked it up one day, and sure enough there is a super small beach down the cliffs tucked into a small cove that you really can't see from the road. Also up into hills above the parking lot are trails that are popular amongst hikers and mountain bikers. On a weekday day-off, I finally took the plunge. I came here to hike and to chill on that beach post hike. One of my favorite hiking scenarios is to hike into hills on a coast, then to be able to descend onto some beach to touch ocean water. It is the ultimate work and reward principle. The parking lot will be on the left side of the road, shortly after you see daylight again from the Devil's Slide Tunnel going southbound. It'll come quick from the windy road, so a gps to tell you it is approaching is helpful. I did almost a 5 mile loop up in the hills, but there are a lot of options. The trail I chose basically followed the highway going south for about a mile or so, until you are directly above Montara Beach. The views are outstanding as you are perched right above highway 1. Then it goes inland for another 3 miles where the trail goes in and out of trees. I'd say 50% in the shade so really relaxing. Then the last mile you head back into the coastal views again from where you began. But I did notice that the down hill on this part was really steep, so to hit that loop clockwise instead of counter, would prove to be a more challenging route. Without knowing, I got lucky and picked the more mellow ride for the first out. But on my next out, I sure will and try the more strenuous version. When back to the parking lot and to go down to Gray Whale's Cove Beach, you will have to cross the highway on foot. It is a bit precarious as cars are going about 40+ miles per hour, and the bend of the road, keeps you from seeing too far out. So, you kinda have to be ready to sprint across. Which is why i wouldn't really recommend this if you're not willing to run or towing a lot of people especially small children. Once across the street just head down the trail and veer to the right. There you'll see a steep wooden staircase that'll take you down to the secluded cove. It is so secluded that I think this still may get used as a designated California nude beach (from what I've read). But with its growing popularity I'm sure that is fading. There were only about a half dozen people down there the weekday morning I went and all were clothed. But on this beach, it'll feel like you're on vacation. Soft sand, soothing waves and cliffs towering above you. Due to the lack of ease getting here, it will filter much of the masses. But many are also in the know of the special feeling this place brings, and I for one will proudly join that group. read more

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This beach is fun! The only hiccup is parking & the mini hike down to the beach so be careful crossing the road & watch your step going down & up. Other than that, great beach hangout. There's a few photo op areas. Very spacious beach when we went. read more

Gray Whale Cove State Beach - The swing - Beaches Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

Love love love the place! Bring lots of water as parking is on the other side of the freeway. There is a bit of a walk and hike on your way back but oh so beautiful. Make sure you have all what you need to avoid having to walk to parking. read more

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The beach is very nice! I just wished it wasn't so windy the day we went. Sand was flying everywhere lol. There are two small parking areas available. Beautiful hiking trail too. You can see the beach on your hike. Will definitely go back again. read more

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Parking on east side of highway is limited. You want to plan to get there earlier in the day to ensure you get a stop. Otherwise, you'll be walking and packing your stuff in from further away. Only porta pottys are available...also on the east side of the highway...a short walk from the parking lot. There are no services or trash cans on the beach. You are responsible for parking out your own trash/waste. It's a long walk down to the beach (a great many wooden stairs...so many stairs...must the stairs are a workout). It seems an even longer/harder walk back up to the parking lot and your car. The beach is beautiful and clean (do your share to keep it that way). The main part of beach (most of what you see as you descend the stairs) is long and wide. The sand is clean and fairly fine. This part of the beach appears to be where most people lay their towels...I saw a number of umbrellas planted too. To the right, beyond the rocks, is another section of the beach. This section is clothing-optional. People who visit this end of the beach tend to pack lighter. Many bringing just the essentials. Many (not all) going topless or fully nude. All seem very chill and comfortable. No one hassling anyone or damaging their calm. It's a good place to relax and listen to the ocean sounds, decompress from a stress daily life, take a walk along the beach, take a dip in the chill Pacific Ocean, or work on your tan. It's a great place to recharge. read more

Beautiful isolated beach! The main parking lot fills up by 10am on weekend mornings. However, there is tons of overflow parking on the hill above the lot (right when you turn in from the highway, turn left up the hill). You do have to cross a highway and go down some stairs (or a VERY steep slope) to get to the beach from the parking lot. On the way, you'll see two rope swings overlooking the ocean. Great for photo ops! If you go during high tide, the beach is significantly smaller, but the waves are big and beautiful! read more

What a beautiful beach to enjoy this hot weather! Got here around 9am and left at 5pm. Definitely people do respect the mask and being 6ft away. Everyone is in their own little area. It was nice. A little crowded but again people did respect. Definitely a leg/cardio workout going down the hill to the stairs and bam you're on the beach. :) and going back up too. Lol definitely got my mini workout. The parking is a bit small and tight but I've people park on the side. By the highway. It was worth the trip. Bring food, drinks (water) and a camping tent so you don't get burnt. I've also seen people with a mini grill(bbq) portable whatever you call it. I was smelling burgers. But I have my little ceviche with my special green sauce. No bathroom (portable bathroom) so if you gotta go, find a spot. Haha read more

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Exactly what I needed. Beautiful beach. The parking lot was expectedly small but I was able to find a space. There were several paths down to the beach. A bit steep for those not steady on their feet but otherwise just fine. There were no garbage is so you need to pack out any garbage and no bathroom facilities nor Porta potty's. read more

Gray Whale Cove State Beach - My view - Beaches Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

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Amazing, slightly secluded beach in Half Moon Bay. Went along with my wife while she took photos for a couple. Got to chill off to the side and juggle a mini soccer call and try to make sure I wasn't in the background of any shots. Beach itself is a little small but there were only a handful of people there, so plenty of space. Parking is across the highway, then you walk down the trail and stairs to the beach. No more than 5 mins. Worth it. Just look both ways before crossing the road! #safetyfirst Apparently it's a nude beach? I dunno. Someone said that's the case, but everyone was clothed while we were there. Just a heads up, in case some peeps are rocking their bday suits. read more

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This spot is INCREDIBLY BEAUTIFUL. Went here for the 1st time this weekend and I definitely will be coming back. The sand was clean, the water was freezing, but my family enjoyed our outing. read more

Gray Whale Cove State Beach - Beaches Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

Holy smokerollli This beach is so fire! I have come here 3 times in the last month or two and every time this beach is even better each time I go! The secluded feel of the cliffs paired with the beautiful waves and scenery makes this beach a 10/10 The first time I came here my friend snapped his finger in half (he says it's my fault but that's bullcrap) and it was super cold and windy so my experience wasn't the best, leading to negative vibes associated with the beach HOWEVER, my senior class soon after came for senior ditch day and just today I went with a bunch of friends! And let me tell you, couldn't have been better. Ideal spikeball conditions and little crabs running around on the rocks makes for endless things to do here! No gray whale sightings yet (if you saw one there with proof send it to me and I'll buy you lunch) but once I do spot one this beach will be 6/5 stars. Only negative thing is the sketchy highway crossing and tons of stairs but for a high caliber athlete like myself I don't mind overall amazing beach would recommend read more

Gray Whale Cove State Beach - Bernie on a Rock - Beaches Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

After finding Devils Slide access closed, we went a little further south to an overlook of Gray Whale Cove. Looking around we found a path that led down to a fantastic view of the beach. A little more exploring led to a staircase to the beach. 140 steps later we were in the sand. Only a handful of people were around and finding words to describe what we saw would be difficult to do. Living in the Midwest, we are awestruck at the natural beauty the coast of California offers. It is well worth the short hike to get to this picturesque spot read more

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Gray (Grey?) Whale Cove State Beach (GWC), located along Cabrillo HWY/HWY 1 in Half Moon Bay, is a somewhat hidden gem that the SO and I love coming to when we want to do a beach day. 1. There is parking across the highway. Decent amount of space. Comes with one port-o-potty! 2. Beach is fairly clean aka not a lot of debris/rocks/sharp things 3. Unofficial "nude" beach - beware... if ya don't know, now ya know... 4. No lifeguard on duty 5. Bring booze and food and have a fancy picnic with your date! 6. Awesome view and feels kinda secluded since you have to walk down a giant flight of stairs to reach the actual beach part from the highway. Also equals a nice leg workout! I'm still on the lookout for the titular whales at this particular beach! So far, I've seen birds riding the waves, and baby seals hidden amongst the coves. GWC is really a beautiful beach and the perfect place to relax on a sunny day. read more

Gray Whale Cove State Beach - Beaches Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

I was looking for a nice quiet moderate hike to do solo before meeting up for golf later. Decided to try the Old Colima Road loop. Only 4.7 miles, on a cool high fog morning. Mid week, parking lot at Gray whale cove was very sparse. I only saw a few bikes on the trail, no other hikers yet. It's always cool to be the first on some the trails, besides the occasional spider web across the trail, there's usually a lot of wildlife and their footprints. Lots of bunnies, deer and coyote tracks, a little too cool and foggy for lizards yet. Fog was high, so it only obstructed the view at the very top of San Pedro mountain. Lots of history along the trail, from the original horse and buggy and bike road, to some of World war 2 lookout points. Amazing views of gray whale cove and the coast. Interesting to hike over the tunnel you drive through on the 1. Good zig zagging made for a moderate ascent up, a good workout without killing you. Sometimes sweat, sometimes wet fog. Some of the trail is narrow, so don't get too distracted from the views of the pacific. Quite a few small fishing boats off shore. I went clockwise from the parking lot, definitely recommend it. Going the other way is quite a climb, up a steep loose soil grade. It was a little tricky even going down it. Great way to start a mental health day away from a crazy busy work summer. Always enjoy communing with nature and collecting my thoughts in the moment. Definitely want to come back on a sunny day and hike it again. A trail that can be hiked multiple times, each may be different, depending on weather conditions. It's a truly moderate hike, most will enjoy, if for nothing else, the amazing views of the pacific. Looking forward to coming back soon. Happy hiking, God bless, and cheers read more

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Visited half moon bay and stopped at a few beaches this one was very beautiful definitely recommend even though parking can be tricky and a bit dangerous so please be careful. I also noticed alot of trash which was really sad and disappointed that people decided to trash this place alot of dog owners also contributed to this waste by leaving bags of dog waste pretty much everywhere. If you visit this beautiful beach please do mother earth a favor and don't litter. read more

This is a beautiful beach. The sand is medium grained sand if anyone understands what I'm talking about. I would give it 5 stars but what is up with the naked guys camping out on the beach. Also naked dudes just chillin sunbathing. I'll be honest if it was some hot ass girl I'd be fine with it. if it was a ripped ass dude I'd be like good for you. But if you're an out of shaped fat dude put some damn clothes on. You're ruining the scenery for everyone out there. Watch out for the naked ugly dudes. read more

Gray Whale Cove State Beach - Beaches Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

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Most beautiful beach in the World!! 20 Minutes from Mission, San Francisco . I go often as possible for a quick relax and release in the beautiful sand surf and sun. read more

Gray Whale Cove State Beach - 20'+ Waves - Beaches Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

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We visit this yesterday during the COVID-19 pandemic and although it was a cold day my family and I had a wonderful time, the soft sandy beach was warm on our feet. We even had whale sightings out in the distance you could see them raising their fans and bodies out of the water splashing and using their blowholes. What a wonderful day (but cold). read more

Gray Whale Cove State Beach - The overcast was in full force - Beaches Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

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This has got to be arguably one of the best beaches along the peninsula and Highway 1. It's a beautiful sight once you get to the bottom of it all! First, you will park in a fairly large lot and then have to be careful when crossing the highway. Of course, don't go over the cliff or try to head down to the beach the hard way because you will most likely get hurt along the way. Follow the paved path towards the right and you'll go down a couple of flights of stairs where the waves and sand await you. Very open and spacious beach overall and it wasn't crowded at the time I went (though it so happened to be during the New Year's Day holiday). Not sure why other users are talking about nudity, but when I went there, no signs of it. FYI: The address/map provided here on Yelp is way off. This beach is right before Devil's Slide if you're headed northbound. read more

Gray Whale Cove State Beach - Top of Gray Whale Cove State Beach, next to Highway 1 - Beaches Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

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Came across this beach while looking for the Gray Whale Cove Trail, but ended up coming here instead. There's a parking lot right off Hwy 1 and then you have to run across the road like Frogger. The views when you first cross the road is BEAUTIFUL! Perfect for a photo op. Then you go down these wooden stairs to the beach. The beach itself is wonderful! It's so peaceful and it wasn't busy at all. I mean given.. it is the middle of January! But it was so nice and it wasn't freezing cold! This beach definitely perfect for a picnic. I will be coming back! read more

An amazing beach. First of all, you do not have reception past the tunnel. Directions to there.. After the tunnel, on the right you'll see a old house? now marked up w graffiti that you can stand on, walk to etc. Dope spot for pictures, FYI. Then you'll keep going & see a lot for parking to your left. That's where you can park & cross that traffic to get to the cove. Suggestions: Keep what you need in the car. Just be smart when leaving belongings. That particular parking lot is for hikers & people at the beach. This is a nude beach. You'll have to cross the highway. Drivers are kind & will stop. About my photo: No Fire. - I've seen pits, old pits & people hauling bbqs lol. No dogs / off leash - Def seen dogs. Brought my own. Just know you may run into some. Owners & dogs are all friendly. Owners do pick up after dogs. No camping - Again, have heard & seen people stay here. No cars - Well, duh. My main thing is *Pack It In, Pack It Out!* Keep the beach clean. It's such a beautiful find! Let everyone enjoy how it is. There are trash cans in that parking lot but not down at the beach. Mommies... No potties down there. There are stairs. My four year old did them, w no problem. In fact there are almost 200. My kid counted lololol. read more

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If heaven had a name it would be Gray Whale Cove. Cheesy I know, but I can't help it. I gush over this place. I thought it was time for me to write an update since I wrote my last review a long time ago. Gray Whale Cove is my absolute favorite beach on the coast (besides my love of Rockaway of course). It is magnificently beautiful, magical and special. I have been there in every weather and in every mood, but when it is warm and sunny in the Fall, Gray Whale Cove is especially magical. In September and October the weather hits a sweet spot on the coast. There are lots of warm sunny days that are just oozing with golden sunshine. It is yummy, delicious, scrumptious and juicy. Yes, it makes me think of taking a bite out of a perfectly ripened juicy peach that is oozing with goodness. Today was one of those days. Gray Whale Cove reminds me so much of my favorite beach on the North Shore of Oahu - Waimea Bay. The sunset colors, the feel, the white sand, the way the ocean is both wild and serene. This may be why I am so in love with Gray Whale Cove. My favorite thing to do is head to the beach for sunset on a weekday when there are no crowds, but I usually don't have time these days. So, when I saw that today was a gorgeously beautifully sunny day, as soon as I could, I headed to Gray Whale Cove for sunset. With my Terrier Hokulani in tow, we headed to Gray Whale at about 4:30 in the afternoon. The parking lot was super crowded of course, but I told myself I would stick out until I found a spot to park. It didn't take long! Lots of people were leaving so it wasn't so bad to find a spot. Gray Whale Cove is its own special kind of place. It is eclectic and full of surprises. If you are looking at the ocean, the right side (especially the far right side) is usually occupied by nudists. Yes, that is true. They are all men - as far as I have been able to tell anyway. And, on the far left side, there is a Russian community party every two weeks. I have no idea why, but every time I come to Gray Whale, the Russian community party is happening. They usually have loud thumping music - it looks like they have a great time. I spoke to some of them, and it is really just a gathering of community people. So my sunset was book-ended by nudists and the Russian community party tonight, hahahaha. On top of that, I happened to be stationed right next to a wedding, or should I say the wedding stationed themselves right next to me. But what a beautiful day for a wedding. It warmed my heart. Just roll with all of the eccentricities of the California coast! Nudists, parties, weddings, couples on dates, surfers doing their thing, you name it. I talked to different people on the beach who were so sweet to my dog who is learning to be off leash at the beach. This is how Gray Whale Cove is too - people who chit chat, dog friendliness, and overall happiness. I ran the whole span of the beach with Hoku, and this took maybe about 10 minutes one way. It was good exercise, good fun, and warm warm warm. After our run we headed back to our spot and chilled to watch sunset. I couldn't ask for anything better. Overall, a lovely, lovely sunset at the beach. I wouldn't trade it for the world. read more

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Love this place. There isn't much parking on the side on hwy 1, but if you do get a chance to find parking, you better pull right in! You do have to walk down to get to the beach, but I promise you, it's worth it! This place is worth the stop. It is a secluded beach with amazing views. Lots of marine life to view and plenty of picture opportunities if that's your thing. I love coming to coves, as the water just hits differently. This beach isn't named gray whale cove for no reason. If you get lucky and come during whale watching season, you may be able to spot some while visiting. I love this place, as it is close to half moon bay, pacifica, and Fitz gerald marine reserve. read more

I found this gem today after two failed attempts at trying to go to other locations that were either closed or unreachable. My boys fell in love with this place and so did I. We highly recommend this secret cove and hope to be back soon. read more

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Beautiful small beach! Light clear light blue waters along the beach shore showcase this place. Stunning! You may park across the street. Then walk across the highway to the cliff and find the stairway leading all the way down to the beach. The large mountain side outlines this beach and have huge rocks strewn among the sandy beach too. I saw shells of a crab and muscles on the beach. Also, there are live muscles attached to rocks here. A woman there said you need a license to harvest them. She was very protective of the bags of live muscles she was picking from the rocks on the beach beside the ocean. Hope to see whales here one day as the name states. Otherwise, I'm glad to have experienced the beautiful surprising sight of clear blue waters on the West Coast located off Highway 1. This is such a wonderful natural ocean clear waters to see that reminded me of the Bahamas. read more

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Nude beaches rock! Other locations in the SF Bay include Baker Beach in SF, Marshall's Cove in SF and San Gregorio Private Beach in San Mateo. History of nudism is quite a facinating read. If you're liberal, open minded and not really on board with puritanical beliefs -- trying swimming nude. It's an AWESOME experience. Nothing gets you feeling more 'one' with nature than removing clothing and crashing some waves. read more

Beautiful beach! A bit hard access if you have kids and elderly parents but we all made it and it was very worth it! The kids loved climbing the rocks. And it was protected from the windy day. Strong waves not for swimming. But absolutely beautiful! read more

Located off Highway 1, just south of the Devil's Slide Tunnel, Grey Whale Cove is a small gem of a beach. It's free to park across the highway (albeit with crowded and sometimes limited parking) but you also need to be careful crossing over to the beach entrance. The whole area is incredibly scenic but this particular beach is a bit less crowded and packs a lot of beauty in a small space. Once you cross Highway 1, you will signs pointing you to the stairway down to the beach. Take some time to veer off left and take in the scenic overlook and breath in the fresh sea air and coastal pines. After that as you head down to the beach you will start to take in the crystal blue water, crashing waves and rugged cliffs-you'll also realize the steep climb back up that awaits you later on. I happened to visit on a sunny day so it was perfect for sitting out for a bit and taking in all of the majestic coastline-but be aware this beach is not suitable for swimming. I've also read that it can sometimes be a nudist beach-I didn't notice that on my visit but just be aware. The sand was surprisingly soft for a Bay Area beach and it was just an overall relaxing vibe. It's somewhat secluded and not very crowded, making an ideal respite from hectic every day life. Can't wait to visit again soon and plan ahead with a blanket, a book and some snacks...until then, I'm left with visions of the beautiful coastline that makes up Grey Whale Cove. read more

Great location to spend a day at the beach. Do expect to exercise a bit but well worth it.

Beautiful hidden gem on Highway 1. We found this beach after we stopped to look at a lookout on top of a rock as we left Montara. The views from that area were beautiful and when we saw the beach at the bottom we decided to check it out. The beach is secluded and protected from the wind. You have to go down about 100 steps but it's so worth it read more

Gray Whale Cove State Beach - Beaches Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

This is my favorite beach that's not so far from San Francisco! There is a parking lot on your left after the tunnel coming from Pacifica. Cross the street (be careful) and go around the gate. There are lots of stairs down to the bottom so make sure you have everything with you so you don't have to make multiple trips, unless you want the exercise. You have to work for this pretty beach. Technically it's a nude beach, but typically if you veer left at the end of the stairs you are not exposed to those who like to expose themselves. This beach has soft sand and wide open spaces. Even on a nice day it doesn't feel so crowded. The parking lot is small and does get crowded so you may want to consider carpooling. There is a porta potty at the top (not recommended unless necessary). read more

If you are looking for some blue sky in the midsts of all this smoke we have all been breathing, you can head down to Gray Whale Cove and hope to get lucky like I did today. It was not completely clear but there was actual blue sky above and nice sea breeze, which has to be good, even if it does have particulate matter in it. I also headed that way for the clean sand and water, and compared to Ocean Beach it was really nice. I love how its in a small cove and the waves crash really loud on the beach, it reminds me of a favorite secret place in Hawaii. I had not been to Gray Whale Cove for a while because of the random naked weird men with pot bellies strolling back and forth on the shoreline. Why is it that most people who are nudists are people you really do not want to see nude? I was only visually violated one time today by an old man so for this beach, that's something I guess can handle. As soon as all the ugly old penises stay on the north side of the beach, that's when I give this beautiful cove the 5th star. read more

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My boyfriend and I decided to check this beach out since the reviews looked great. This place is a pretty secluded beach with gorgeous views. Also, the waves happened to be huge the day we went so it made our experience even better. The ride to Pacifica is very scenic so enjoy the views while driving there. Note: The sand here is thicker (pebble form) and does not stick to stuff as much. It was nice not having the sand stick to everything when we packed up. Lastly, you will have to walk across a small highway to get to the beach so be safe! :-) read more

Gray Whale Cove State Beach - There are two ways to get down to the beach FYI. Staircase for us :-) - Beaches Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

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The heat wave/Indian summer that took over the bay area this past weekend was a perfect time to take advantage of the rare high 80s-90s weather at the beach! Even with the weather so beautiful, I knew I wanted to go somewhere nicer than just Ocean beach. Stinson was an option, but I didn't want to potentially sit in traffic on the way to Marin. Santa Cruz would have been nice only if we had planned to leave pretty early in the morning. So we made our way through Pacifica passed Linda Mar and onto the 1 for even less than 20 mins. Getting here can be a little tricky as the parking is quickly to the left after the tunnel (new, safer passage than what used to be the "devil's slide"). There's not traffic lights or stop signs to stop cars from either direction, so just make sure to signal with enough time and watch for oncoming traffic. There is very limited parking, but we got lucky and caught a car leaving. Crossing the street is also dangerous so be sure to double, triple check that the roads are clear before crossing! Some asshole drivers still may be driving fast. There are wooden stairs and quite a few of them that'll take you down to the beach so be mindful that if you're bringing down a cooler or tent, you'll have to take em back up with you on those narrow, somewhat steep stairs. I love the beach here! The surrounding cliffs really makes it feel cove-like and secluded, I was convinced I was far away from home and the ombre blue waters almost made it feel like paradise! Except that it was still freezing cold water instead of being warm haha. Despite it being almost 90 degrees, it felt really cool cuz of the ocean breeze/mist but still warm from the sun. I loved it! The sand here is a little grainier and we noticed there were a bunch of super mini shrimp hopping in and out of the sand...it was interesting and gross to watch at the same time. But they didn't bother me too much. The water takes awhile to get used to and the waves aren't shy either so take caution if you plan on dipping into the water. The tide comes up kind of high so I ended up getting a little wet above my waist. Fun getaway beach that I'll take over the other beaches nearby whenever it's hot enough again. read more

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