Montaña de Oro State Park

Montaña de Oro is a natural park along the Pacific coast in San Luis Obispo County, California, that spreads across cliffs, beaches, dunes and hills. The Valencia Peak rises above the ocean and offers a wide view of the coast and the waves below.

The area was a Mexican ranch before California joined the United States, and later became protected as a state park to preserve the coast. Rangers have worked for decades to maintain the native vegetation and reduce the impact of tourism on the wildlife.

The name means Mountain of Gold and refers to the yellow wildflowers that cover the hillsides each spring. Hikers and riders often meet on the trails along the cliffs, where they listen to the sound of the waves and the calls of seabirds.

The trails are mostly unpaved and run over uneven ground, so sturdy shoes are recommended. Early morning hours work well for visits, as afternoon winds often pick up and fog can reduce visibility.

The tide pools along the shore hold sea anemones, starfish and small crabs that become visible at low tide. During winter months, gray whales can be seen from the cliffs as they pass by on their migration south.

Location: San Luis Obispo County

Inception: 1965

Operator: California Department of Parks and Recreation

Website: https://parks.ca.gov/?page_id=592

GPS coordinates: 35.26390,-120.86200

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:28