Gray Whale Cove State Beach

Gray Whale Cove State Beach is a coastal stretch in San Mateo County featuring white sand nestled between steep cliffs along Highway 1. The cove extends roughly 800 feet and owes its pale sand to granite rocks from Montara Mountain.

This area was traditional territory of the Ohlone people before being designated as a state beach in 1968. That designation marked the formal protection and management of the coastal section.

The cove serves as a watching point for marine biologists studying gray whale migration along the Pacific coast. Its position makes it valuable for tracking these seasonal movements.

Access comes through a steep trail from the parking area, where chemical toilets are available but water facilities do not exist. Visitors should prepare for uneven ground and allow time for the climb.

The whitish sand composition comes from granite cliffs of Montara Mountain and is particularly rare along this coastline. This mix makes the beach interesting to geologists who observe the rocks.

Location: San Mateo County

Address: Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, USA

Phone: +16507268819

Website: http://parks.ca.gov/?page_id=528

GPS coordinates: 37.56446,-122.51402

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:23