Pfeiffer Beach, Beach on California's central coast in Monterey County, US.
Pfeiffer Beach extends along the Pacific Ocean with steep cliffs, featuring a large rock formation with a natural arch through which waves flow.
The beach became part of Los Padres National Forest management system in the mid-20th century, preserving its natural state for public access.
Professional and amateur photographers gather at the beach during sunset to capture the light streaming through the Keyhole Arch formation.
Visitors reach the beach via Sycamore Canyon Road from Highway 1, with parking available for a fee of 10 dollars per vehicle.
The sand contains sections of purple coloration due to the presence of manganese garnet deposits from the surrounding cliffs.
Location: Monterey County
GPS coordinates: 36.23861,-121.81750
Latest update: May 17, 2025 10:45
California's beaches range from the busy southern coast to the remote northern shores. Each location offers specific features: Santa Monica's pier, Venice's cultural scene, Laguna's scenic views, and Pfeiffer's mineral-colored sand. The coastline includes urban beaches with facilities, natural areas with rock formations, and protected marine zones for water sports and wildlife observation.
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Bixby Creek Bridge
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Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo
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McWay Falls
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Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
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Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
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Tassajara Zen Mountain Center
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Tassajara Hot Springs
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Mrs. Clinton Walker House
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Point Sur Lighthouse
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Butterfly House
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Carmel River State Beach
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Point Sur State Historic Park
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Driftwood Cottage
35.1 km
Rocky Creek Bridge
17.4 km
Big Creek Bridge
27.1 km
Big Creek State Marine Reserve and Big Creek State Marine Conservation Area
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San Clemente Dam
24 km
Palo Corona Ranch
33.7 km
Geological history of Point Lobos
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Palo Corona Regional Park
21.9 km
Whalers Cabin
32.9 km
Point Lobos State Reserve
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Keyhole Arch
51 mReviews
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