This is one of the best dog-friendly beaches on the San Mateo coast. Located one mile south of Pescadero and about 17.5 miles south of Half Moon Bay on Highway 1, Bean Hollow State Beach is a uniquely rugged and beautiful stretch of coastline that dogs and their owners absolutely love. If the lot is full, there is also street parking and access north of the main lot, in a less crowded area.
Bean Hollow State Beach actually encompasses two beaches connected by the Arroyo de los Frijoles Trail, a scenic one-mile path that runs between Pebble Beach to the north and Bean Hollow Beach to the south. Pebble Beach is famous for its smooth, wave-polished stones in every color, while Bean Hollow Beach features a small, sandy cove flanked by dramatic rocky outcroppings and honeycomb-patterned tafoni rock formations that have been sculpted by wind and sea over thousands of years.
The beach features excellent fishing, picnicking, and beachcombing opportunities. Visitors can explore tide pools teeming with anemones, crabs, sea urchins, and other marine inhabitants. These tide pools are some of the most accessible and fascinating on the San Mateo Coast. Please remember to observe only and never touch or disturb the tide pool creatures, as this is a protected marine habitat. The beach also has a self-guided nature trail that provides educational information about the coastal ecosystem.
Swimming is dangerous because of cold water, rip currents and heavy surf, so keep your pup out of the deeper water and stick to wading along the shore. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet at all times, as this is a California State Park. Bean Hollow is one of the few state beaches on this stretch of coast where dogs are permitted, making it an especially valuable destination for dog owners.
Facilities include a small parking lot with picnic tables and chemical toilets. The parking area can fill up on sunny weekends, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended. Bring your own water and snacks, as there are no concession stands at the beach.
While you are near Pescadero, stop at Duarte’s for some pie and soup! This beloved local institution has been serving hearty meals since 1894 and is a perfect post-beach treat after a day of exploring the coast with your dog.
Length: 1.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Open to: Hikers, ADA, dogs on leash, equestrians, bicyclists
Please remember to Leave Only Paw Prints™
For directions, click on Visit Website on the top of the page.
