Pescadero Travel Guide

Explore the best travel tips, top destinations, where to stay, and what to eat while venturing in Pescadero, California.


Introduction to Pescadero

Pescadero is a charming coastal town in the Peninsula region of California, located about 50 miles south of San Francisco. The town is known for its sandy beaches, coastal bluffs, and lush countryside that offers many outdoor recreational opportunities. Pescadero is a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to escape the chaos of city life.

List of Places to Visit in Pescadero

Whether you are visiting for a day trip or a week-long vacation, this list of places will help you explore Pescadero to the fullest.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Pigeon Point Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse located on the Pacific Coast Highway, offering panoramic views of the ocean.

Harley Farms Goat Dairy: A cheese-making operation that produces award-winning goat cheese.

Pescadero State Beach: A popular beach with a mile-long shoreline, offering activities to surf, sunbath or picnic.

Natural Attractions of Pescadero: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Butano State Park: A habitat of many wildlife animals and home to many old-growth redwoods.

Bean Hollow State Beach: A peaceful beach known for its tide pools, rocks, and sea lions.

Año Nuevo State Reserve: A natural reserve offering a glimpse of elephant seals breeding.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pescadero

Pescadero Creek Park is a popular spot for hiking and biking. It comprises twelve miles of trails, weaving through the picturesque forest and meadows. Butano State Park is another option to escape into the wilderness and explore trails.

Best Things to Do in Pescadero: Activities and Tours

Surfing: Pescadero State Beach offers an excellent opportunity for surfing. You can rent surfing equipment and take surfing lessons from local surf schools.

Fishing: Pescadero Creek County Park offers fishing opportunities for anglers, with the chances of catching Steelhead Trout.

Horseback Riding: The lush countryside of Pescadero also offers an opportunity for horseback riding, and you can enjoy the scenic views while riding

Week-Long Itinerary for Pescadero

If you are planning a week-long trip to Pescadero, here’s a suggested itinerary for you:

Day 1: Visit the Pigeon Point Lighthouse, explore the Bean Hollow State Beach, then relax on your first evening at one of the beautiful lodges or bed & breakfasts in town.

Day 2: Spend the day hiking in the Butano State Park, then enjoy an evening tour of the Harley Farms Goat Dairy.

Day 3: Go fishing in Pescadero Creek County Park and enjoy some horseback riding in the afternoon.

Day 4: Visit Ano Nuevo State Park to see the elephant seals.

Day 5: Spend the day surfing at Pescadero State Beach, then go for dinner at one of the town’s excellent seafood restaurants.

Day 6: Explore the Redwoods in Butano State Park.

Day 7: Visit San Gregorio Beach, then spend your last night at one of Pescadero’s hotels.

Food and Drink Scene of Pescadero

Pescadero is known for its local organic food that is available in farmers’ markets, farm-to-table restaurants, and specialty food stores.

Must-Try Dishes

Artichokes: fresh and locally grown.

Dungeness Crab: available seasonally; ocean-to-table experience.

Ravioli: made fresh at the local Italian restaurant.

Local Beverages

Wine: local wineries produce some of the best wine in California.

Beer: local breweries offer delicious craft beers.

Where to Stay in Pescadero: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pescadero Creek Inn: A beautiful bed & breakfast Costanoa Lodge: A luxurious lodge with stunning views of the ocean.

Pigeon Point Lighthouse Hostel: A hostel located in a historic lighthouse, offering one of a kind experience to their guests.

What to Buy in Pescadero: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Artichoke Soup Mix: A popular product, you will find it in almost all of the local specialty stores.

Harley Farms Goat Cheese: This internationally recognized cheese used in Michelin-starred restaurants.

Handpicked Olallieberries: A unique cross between raspberries and blackberries.

Local Culture and Customs of Pescadero

Pescadero’s culture is heavily influenced by the organic farming practices and the preservation of its natural environment. Pescadero prides itself on its commitment to the local economy and the local community.

Best Time to Visit Pescadero

The best time to visit Pescadero is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities like hiking and surfing are available. Winter is a good choice for those looking for a quiet escape surrounded by natural beauty.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pescadero

Do:

  • Do bring your binoculars for a better view of the scenery and wildlife.
  • Do take the time to learn about the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t feed the wildlife animals as it can be dangerous and harmful to the animals.
  • Don’t litter, and pack out any trash from your visit.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pescadero

Pescadero is generally a safe place to visit. There are no significant safety concerns, but visitors are asked to stay on proper trails to avoid the risks of getting lost, animal encounters, and getting hurt.

Health in Pescadero

Pescadero has limited medical facilities, but San Mateo and Santa Cruz are nearby cities where hospital facilities can be accessed in the event of an emergency.

Getting to Pescadero: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pescadero

The nearest international airports to Pescadero are San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Oakland International Airport (OAK), and San Jose International Airport (SJC).

Bus Stations Near Pescadero

The SamTrans bus service offers transportation from San Mateo Park and Ride Lot to Pescadero.

Other Options

You can rent a car or hire a private car to reach Pescadero.

How to Get Around in Pescadero

To explore Pescadero, it is best to have your vehicle. However, biking and hiking are also popular options.

Where to Go Next from Pescadero: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay is a picturesque town located just north of Pescadero, famous for its beautiful beaches, rolling hills, and coastal trails.

San Francisco

San Francisco is located just 31 miles north of Pescadero, offering a wide range of activities and attractions. You can visit Alcatraz Island, Golden Gate Park, and the historic Castro neighbourhood.

Conclusion

Pescadero is an excellent destination for anyone looking for natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and organic food experience. If you are planning a trip to California, do not miss the opportunity to visit Pescadero.

View of Pescadero State Beach View of Pescadero State Beach Another view of Pescadero State Beach Another view of Pescadero State Beach Pescadero Marsh Pescadero Marsh Elephant seals on the beach at Año Nuevo State Park Elephant seals on the beach at Año Nuevo State Park