Hike Pillar Point Bluff

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.