San Gregorio State Beach

San Gregorio State Beach is a state beach in San Mateo County where a creek forms a freshwater lagoon behind a sand barrier before its water disappears beneath the beach surface. The shoreline is lined with tall sandstone cliffs that contain visible fossils and small caves accessible to visitors exploring the northern section.

A stone marker indicates where Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portola's expedition stopped and camped for three days in 1769 while traveling toward Monterey Bay. The site marks an important point along the early European exploration route of the California coast.

The Department of Fish and Game considers restocking the creek with coho salmon to enhance the marine ecosystem south of San Francisco Bay.

The beach provides restrooms and picnic tables, with parking available on the bluff above the shore as well as along the nearby road. Visitors should be prepared for windy conditions and bring layers since coastal fog rolls in frequently.

The sandstone cliffs north of the creek contain fossils from ancient marine environments that visitors can observe while exploring the coastal caves. These preserved remains tell the story of how this coastline has changed over millions of years.

Location: San Mateo County

Website: https://parks.ca.gov/?page_id=529

GPS coordinates: 37.32310,-122.40200

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:56