Phillip Burton Memorial Beach

Phillip Burton Memorial Beach stretches along the California coastline at the foot of open hillsides and lies between Thornton State Beach and Fort Funston, next to the Olympic Club Golf Course. The beach is defined by its wide sandy expanse and the green hills that border it.

The beach was named after Congressman Phillip Burton, whose efforts in the 1970s led to the establishment of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. This naming honors his important role in protecting this coastal region.

The beach serves as a gathering place for various outdoor activities, where riding paths from local stables connect to the shore and different visitors come together.

The easiest access to the beach is by walking south along the sand from Fort Funston, since erosion has made direct trail access difficult. Planning your visit with attention to tidal conditions will help you see the most of what the shore has to offer.

A deep cave in the rocks invites exploration, while wooden posts emerge from the sand at low tide, creating striking scenes especially at sunset. These natural features shift the landscape depending on tidal cycles and the time of day.

Location: San Mateo County

Address: Phillip Burton Memorial Beach, California 94015, USA

GPS coordinates: 37.70688,-122.50247

Latest update: December 15, 2025 13:24