About 14.5 miles south of Half Moon Bay on Highway 1, Pescadero State Beach and the marsh across the road are a favorite stop for birders, tide-poolers and anyone driving the coast. Pescadero Creek splits the beach in two: the northern side is wider and sandier, and the southern side is rockier, Wikipedia notes.
Three lots, three experiences
State Parks lists three parking areas. The northern lot has two paths to the sandy beach. Parking there costs $8, paid on entry, and only cash or checks are accepted at the self-registration station. The central lot has a narrow stairway down to the rocky beach and a wooden staircase up to a walkway on the Highway 1 bridge. To reach the marsh, cross the bridge on foot and walk under it from the beach. The park advises against crossing Highway 1 on foot. The southern lot, at Pescadero Creek Road, has stairs to the rocky beach, restrooms and two picnic tables.
None of the lots has running water.
Wildlife
The marsh preserve shelters blue herons, kites, deer, raccoons, foxes and skunks. Wikipedia adds steelhead and black oystercatchers, and notes that Steller sea lions and harbor seals often haul out on the offshore rocks near the central and southern lots. Free guided marsh walks are sometimes offered.
The rules
Dogs are prohibited on the beach and in the preserve at all times. Beach fires, fireworks, drones and collecting shells or driftwood are also banned. There is no camping; anglers need a state fishing license.
Nearby: Pigeon Point Lighthouse marks 154 years and Butano State Park's redwood canyon.