Gray Whale Cove State Beach

Gray Whale Cove State Beach extends 800 feet along the California coast, featuring white sand shores flanked by steep cliffs near Highway 1.

The beach area served as a traditional territory of the Ohlone people before receiving state beach designation status in 1968.

The cove functions as a research location for marine biologists studying the annual migration patterns of gray whales along the Pacific coast.

Visitors access the beach through a steep trail from the parking area, where chemical toilets are available but no water facilities exist.

The granitic rocks from Montara Mountain provide the distinctive white sand composition that characterizes this secluded coastal stretch.

Location: San Mateo County

Address: Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, USA 94019 Half Moon Bay

Phone: +16507268819

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

GPS coordinates: 37.56446,-122.51402

Latest update: April 30, 2025 07:20