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Pescadero, California

Pescadero, California is a great place for outdoor adventurers! From the beaches to the trails, there are plenty of awe-inspiring, picturesque spots to explore. Top attractions include Butano State Park, Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve, and Bean Hollow State Beach. For outdoor adventurers, there are plenty of must-visit trails like the Pomponio State Beach Trail, the Sam McDonald County Park Trail, and the Memorial County Park Trail. All of these trails offer thrilling views and plenty of outdoor activities. So, don't miss out on the treasure trove of outdoor activities in and near Pescadero, California!

Top Spots in and near Pescadero

  • Pescadero, California

    Catch a Sunset at Bean Hollow State Beach

    5.0
    There are a bunch of places to photograph this beach if you head north on the trail that runs along the beach.There is parking at the beach but it can fill up quickly!The only warning you need is about the tide. Make sure you are watching it the entire time because it can creep up on you and will...
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  • Pescadero, California

    Hike the Little Butano Creek Trail

    1.5 mi
    This short hike follows Little Butano Creek through a lush redwood forest. The trail crosses the creek multiple times as you walk over redwood pine needles and through pockets of ferns. Dogs can join on this trail, but must be on leash.
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  • Pescadero, California

    Camp at Butano State Park

    Butano State Park definitely flies under the radar. But for those who love quick escapes, small crowds, fun hikes, and beautiful redwoods, it's a favorite. The park features miles of hiking trails, 21 drive-in campsites and 18 walk-in campsites. Restrooms with running water are provided. Drinking...
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  • Pescadero, California

    Hike the Canyon Rim Route in Butano State Park

    5.0
    11.7 mi
    Located deep within the Santa Cruz Mountains, Butano State Park boasts a large redwood canyon with many miles of hiking trails as well as campsites. This state park is one of the quietest and least visited parks on the peninsula making a perfect place to escape the hustle of the Bay Area Butano S...
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  • Pescadero, California

    Año Nuevo and Goat Trail Loop

    4.0
    3.76 mi / 761 ft gain
    This steep and winding trail takes you to the top of a ridge where you can see the Pacific coastline and the redwoods piercing through the forest canopy. To do this trail connect the Ano Nuevo Trail, Olmo Fire Road, Goat Trail and the Six Bridges Trail. If you don't have all day to do the Canyon ...
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  • Half Moon Bay, California

    Stroll along the Southern Beaches at San Gregorio State Beach

    4.0
    2.9 mi / 413 ft gain
    Not a trail per se, but approximately 3 miles (down and back) of beautiful beach to walk down. Lots of interesting caves, wild animals, and rock formations to discover. This is a popular location for sea kayakers. San Gregorio State Beach was originally founded to protect the estuary at the back ...
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  • Pescadero, California

    Explore the Pidgeon Point Lighthouse

    5.0
    Pidgeon Point Lighthouse is conveniently located just 50 miles south of San Francisco. Constructed in 1872 and standing at 115 feet, it is among the tallest lighthouse in America.Part of the state park system, it is surprisingly secluded. Numerous parking space were available in the lot with hand...
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  • Pescadero, California

    Exploring Big Sur to Pigeon Point

    We started off in Big Sur and took as many pull-off viewpoints as possible between Big Sur and the final destination, Pigeon Point Lighthouse. The weather was foggy in some spots but would open up to reveal the vast Pacific Ocean and sun in others. The weather was mild for us but we're familiar w...
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  • Loma Mar, California

    Camp Under the Redwoods at Memorial Park

    With old growth redwoods and a creek swimming area, Memorial Park is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area. Memorial Park is only a few miles east of the town of Pescadero. To get here, you can either approach from Highway 1 and drive up Pescadero Creek Road or take Highway ...
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  • Loma Mar, California

    Bike Pescadero Creek County Park

    5.0
    12.5 mi / 1350 ft gain
    Pescadero Creek County Park and the connected Sam McDonald and Memorial Park are located deep in the Santa Cruz Mountains holding a vast network of secluded trails. From biking to backpacking, this area is a perfect place for a day or weekend adventure. This area also has the added bonus having r...
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  • La Honda, California

    Sam McDonald Park Loop

    5.0
    12.19 mi / 2192 ft gain
    The Pescadero Creek Park Complex is a great place to escape for a day or overnight hike in the heart of the Bay Area. You will need to get a permit to stay overnight - these can be attained on a first-come, first-serve basis from the ranger station. Most of the campsites here are also available f...
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  • Pescadero, United States

    Relax at Costanoa Lodge

    3.0
    Looking for a quick escape from the city, but sleeping on the ground isn’t really your thing? Look no further than Costanoa Lodge in Pescadero, an upscale "glamping" experience just an hour south of San Francisco with tons of hiking options. This is a really fun option for anyone who enjoys being...
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  • La Honda, California

    Hike the Brook Trail Loop

    7.1 mi / 1500 ft gain
    The Brook Trail Loop is a beautiful hike, starting off in Sam McDonald County Park and later entering into Pescadero Creek County Park. This adventure can be done in any season, with the trails almost entirely shaded for even the hottest summer days. Starting off from the Heritage Grove trailhead...
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  • Half Moon Bay, California

    Watch the Sunset at Martin's Beach

    4.5
    Martin's Beach is a beach about 7 miles south of Half Moon Bay. It features a large, very cool looking rock formation right off the coast. This beach is accessible via Martin's Beach Road, which is a small turn off on your right when southbound on Highway 1, though sometimes the road is only open...
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  • La Honda, California

    Hike through Portola Redwoods State Park

    4.8
    7 mi
    Like redwood hikes? We do too, they're always very scenic and take you away from the hustle and bustle of the bay area. Not to mention, they also stay cool during the summer months. If you want a hike in the middle of the peninsula, this is a great bet.When starting this hike, head out from headq...
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  • 21600 Big Basin Way, California

    Hike the Sequoia Trail at Big Basin Redwoods SP

    4.0
    4.3 mi / 600 ft gain
    This 4.3 mile hike in Big Basin Redwoods SP is a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.   In the first half, there is a quick detour you can take to Sempervirens Falls.  Just listen for sounds of water, read the signs, and cross the road.  The detour itself is as far as cross...
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Camping and Lodging in Pescadero

Santa Cruz North / Costanoa KOA
Pescadero, California

Santa Cruz North / Costanoa KOA

Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday
La Selva Beach, California

Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday

Moss Landing KOA Express
Moss Landing, California

Moss Landing KOA Express

Guides, Insights and Stories from Pescadero

The Perfect Weekend Adventure at Big Basin State Park

The Perfect Weekend Adventure at Big Basin State Park

Benjamin Canevari

10 Great Places To See Wildlife Near Santa Cruz

10 Great Places To See Wildlife Near Santa Cruz

Crystal Birns

4 Ways to Stay in Santa Cruz, California

4 Ways to Stay in Santa Cruz, California

Sara Sheehy

3 Ways to Fuel Your Days in Santa Cruz, California

3 Ways to Fuel Your Days in Santa Cruz, California

Sara Sheehy