Pirates Cove

"A beautiful and secluded beach which is a moderate hike from the Muir Beach parking lot. No facilities at all, pack in/pack out, and the last 200 ft from the main trail down to the beach is quite technical and steep and may involve some hand to hand. But this adds to its charm of being a beach for someone who wants to be by themselves. Surfing, fishing, and swimming not recommended."

"The hike from Muir beach to pirates cove has been a long time favorite. I’ve done it many times but this review is from my most recent visit (April 2023). Bathrooms available in the parking lot to Muir beach. The trail itself is about 4 miles out and back. Like a five paragraph essay it has elevation at the beginning, middle, and end. I’ve visited on a foggy day and that was probably my favorite hike here. It’s neat, and maybe a little eerie, to hear the fog horns in the distance when visibility is so low. There’s always something new to see on this hike. On this trip it was wildflowers and jellyfish. You can find a little beach glass in the cove or at Muir beach. On at least one occasion I’ve spotted whales from Muir Beach too!"

"A nice place to hike to from Muir Beach. The trail is about 1.5 miles long one way to reach Pirates Cove and ascends and decends along the coastline making it more difficult. The last 350 feet drops down to the Pirates Cove beach and can be a little steep and difficult to ascend and descend the cliffside so be careful. Overall, a great experience and worth the extra effort during the hike."

"Well worth it if you can make the steep trek down (and back up again!) Totally secluded and great views of the coastline. Some fun rocks to climb too. Watch the tide though, as there is little beach left when it's in."