Pomponio State Beach is one of the quieter stops on Highway 1 south of Half Moon Bay. California State Parks says it is about 12 miles south of Half Moon Bay, with miles of gently sloping, sandy beach at the base of high sandstone bluffs, a small lagoon and "roaring surf." Wikipedia places it between San Gregorio and Pescadero state beaches.
Visiting
Facilities are basic: picnic tables and pit toilets. There's day-use parking and no camping. State Parks points campers to Half Moon Bay State Beach and Butano State Park.
The rules are strict. Dogs are not allowed on the beach at any time. Beach fires, fireworks and drones are banned. Collecting shells, driftwood and other natural features is prohibited. Events, weddings and commercial photography need permits.
Ocean safety
State Parks warns that the water is very cold year-round. Even a short swim can cause cramps or hypothermia, and strong rip currents can pull experienced swimmers offshore.
The name
Wikipedia says the beach is named for José Pomponio Lupugeym, a Native American from Bolinas whom it describes as an outlaw. He led a band that called itself Los Insurgentes and was captured and executed in 1824.
Next beach up the coast: our San Gregorio State Beach guide.