Sand Dollar Beach

Sand Dollar Beach stretches roughly half a mile along the California coast and features a sandy shoreline set between cliffs of Los Padres National Forest. The cove sits sheltered in a valley and connects to hiking trails that lead into the surrounding woodlands.

The beach became part of Los Padres National Forest through twentieth-century federal conservation efforts designed to protect California's coastal lands. This designation shaped how the wider Big Sur region has developed over the decades.

The beach draws visitors who search for sand dollars and jade stones during low tide, a practice rooted in the area's coastal traditions. This activity connects people directly to the rhythms of the ocean and what the shore naturally offers.

Access comes down wooden stairs from the parking area to the shore, with restrooms and picnic facilities available nearby. The pathways can become slippery when wet, so sturdy footwear is a sensible choice.

The location offers one of the few surfing spots in Big Sur, where waves break regularly against coastal cliffs and deliver strong riding conditions. The pairing of active surf and dramatic coastal terrain creates an uncommon experience for surfers traveling the region.

Location: Monterey County

Website: http://parks.ca.gov/?page_id=545

GPS coordinates: 35.92389,-121.46861

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:43