Gray Whale Cove State Beach sits off Highway 1 just south of Devil's Slide, about 18 miles south of San Francisco. The 3.1-acre park was established in 1966.

Getting there

The parking lot is on the east side of Highway 1, and it also serves as an access point for McNee Ranch and Montara Mountain. From there, a steep trail leads down to the beach. A small picnic area sits on the bluff above the sand.

Facilities

  • Chemical toilets are in the upper parking lot on the east side of Highway 1. There are no restrooms on the west side.
  • Trash cans are in the parking lot only, with no trash pickup west of the highway, so plan to pack it out.
  • There is no drinking water.
  • Hours are 8 a.m. to sunset, with no camping.

Dogs

Dogs are not allowed on the beach. They may use the trails east of Highway 1 on a leash no longer than six feet.

Also banned

Beach fires, drones and collecting shells or driftwood are all prohibited.

Ocean safety

State Parks warns that the water is very cold year-round and that strong rip currents can pull swimmers offshore.

Nearby: the Devil's Slide Trail.