The Best Pescadero beach picnic in Santa Cruz, California

Bean Hollow State Beach is a beautiful park located on New Years Creek Road in Pescadero, California. This park offers a one mile stretch of San Mateo Coast shoreline with two parking lots: Pebble Beach and Bean Hollow Beach. Pebble Beach is known for its rounded, ocean-polished rocks, while Bean Hollow Beach features a small sandy cove and rocky tide pools. Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, picnicking, and beachcombing, but collecting of any kind is prohibited. The park also offers the Arroyo de los Frijoles Trail, which connects the two beaches and features interpretive panels for a self-guided tour. Swimming is not recommended at this beach due to cold water, rip currents, and heavy surf. Dogs are allowed on leashes, but beach fires, collecting, fireworks, and drones are not permitted. Camping is not available at this park, but nearby state park campgrounds include Half Moon Bay State Beach and Butano State Park.

Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 210 Pigeon Point Road in Pescadero, California, United States. Visitors can explore the historic Pigeon Point Lighthouse, which is currently undergoing restoration, through a 3D, 360 degree narrated tour. The park offers guided hikes, public programs, and even backpacking adventures through the Santa Cruz Mountains. The park has facilities such as restrooms, limited picnic tables, and a park store in the historic carpenter's shop. A small public beach is also located nearby. The park does not allow dogs on the lighthouse grounds, drones, or model aircraft for the safety of visitors, wildlife, and cultural resources. The Pigeon Point Hostel, run by Hostelling International, offers overnight accommodations for guests. Special event permits for weddings and other events can be obtained by contacting SMPermits@parks.ca.gov. The park is supported by the Coastside State Parks Association and the Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks. Join the mailing list to stay up to date with local California State Parks events and news.