Hike Pillar Point Bluff
Details
Distance
1.5 miles
Elevation Gain
50 ft
Route Type
Loop
Added by Michael Gabbert
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean on this easy 1 ¼ hike. Pillar Point Bluff is located roughly 30 minutes driving from San Francisco.
Sitting on a 140 acre bluff top, the Pillar Point Bluffs are a simple, easy hike with breathtaking views throughout. The bluffs are 22 miles from San Francisco – a 30 minute drive depending on the traffic. There is a small 10 car or so parking lot off of Airport Blvd, but there are two additional trail head entrances in the Seal Cove neighborhood at Ocean Blvd & Bernal Ave. or Alvardo Ave & Bernal Ave.
Once on the trail, there are a myriad of different paths you can take. The trails twist and turn throughout the abundance of plants in which the trails are cut through. Overall, there is minimal elevation changes which make the hike quite easy for all ages.
Gracing you at almost every step of the hike is the Pacific Ocean to the West. To the south of the trail, and jetting into the Pacific, is the Pillar Point Air Force Tracking Station. With its domed, almost water tower-esqe looking structure amongst some large satellites, it’s nearly impossible to miss. Off from the point where the station sits , you’ll be able to see Mavericks surfing area about a ½ mile off the shore. Huge waves crest here and during the right time of the year are fascinating to behold.
The bluffs have about 1 ¼ of actual trails but foot trails off the beaten path can lead to additional length if you so choose. If you want to extend your adventure, you can either go north a ½ mile into the Cypress Tree Tunnels at Moss Beach or go just south of the bluffs a hike Maverick’s beach.
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Reviews
Leave a ReviewOne Of My Favorite Spots
I first fell in love with this hike four years ago on my first trip to California. I recently returned and was afraid I over exaggerated how much I loved it. Turns out I left loving it more.
5.0
A Sunday Morning Favorite
Great spot to walk the dog on a weekend morning. Great even on a cool, foggy day. Great bird watching. I've also seen rabbits, dolphins and lots of seals.
5.0
Fun For Kids!
An easy hike for kids. Beautiful picture opportunities!
4.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.