Sandy beach
Yes
Hike-in Required
No
Surfing
No
Snorkeling / SCUBA
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Pacific Valley is a quaint set of fields inland from a much more rugged section of coast. Here there are great trails to explore the tall rocks and tiny coves. Stretched out in the middle of this section of the Big Sur coast is a beach that is full of opportunities to explore. The soft, silky sand makes a great area to lounge and relax, while the small caves and tide pools offer their own discoveries.

Pacific Valley Beach is best accessed at lower tides when the entire beach is above the lapping ocean waves. At higher tides there are still beaches open, though they become fragmented and broken apart. Walking the Pacific Bluffs Trail will reveal many different access points to the beaches. Just be careful on the descent, and watch for poison oak! During summer and falls months many poison oak shrubs do not have leaves, but the oil still lies inside the stems. If you are unsure what poison oak looks like, educate yourself or simply stay away from contacting any leafy shrubs and bare stems.

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Small caves. Nearby bluff trails. Beautiful nearby views of the coast.

Cons

Steep, slick trails to the beach.

Features

Tide pools
Wildlife
Tide pools

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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