Pescadero State Beach on the San Mateo County coast includes a compact but varied shoreline of sandy coves, rocky cliffs, tide pools, fishing spots, and picnic areas along State Route 1 near Pescadero and south of Half Moon Bay. Pescadero Creek divides it into a broader, sandier northern section and a rockier southern section, with offshore rocks sheltering parts of the shore and helping form tide pools. Across the highway, Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve adds wetlands that support steelhead and many birds and other wildlife. Sea lions and harbor seals also frequent the offshore rocks, while fishing remains a traditional use under state regulation.

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain