Bean Hollow State Beach: Explore California’s Lace-like Coast
Thousands of years of crashing waves, fierce coastal winds, and churning tides have created a fantastical coastline in San Mateo County, California like no other. Bean Hollow State Beach is home to lace-like rocks, tide pools, and colorful patches of wildflowers that make visitors feel as though they are exploring a remote section of paradise.
Olga Vasylieva | Dreamstime.com
Bean Hollow State Beach is ideal for hiking and surveying tide pools filled with crabs, sea urchins, and starfish. The rugged tafoni rocks—which are sandstone that has been shaped into delicate honeycomb patterns by the elements—are best viewed from several different vantage points.
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Olga Vasylieva | Dreamstime.com
The Arroyo de los Frijoles Trail connects the polished rocks of Pebble Beach to the sandy cove of Bean Hollow. A series of powerful storms have eroded sections of the trail, but there is still a solid strip of ground that winds through a patch of vibrant red and yellow wildflowers. You may even be fortunate enough to spot a few harbor seals frolicking in the waves.
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Sgoodwin4813 | Dreamstime.com
Swimming is not recommended at Bean Hollow State Beach due to powerful rip currents, cold water, and frequent shark sightings. Visitors are urged to use caution when standing next to the thundering surf. Sturdy waterproof shoes are an absolute must if you want to fully enjoy your time exploring Bean Hollow State Beach.
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Sgoodwin4813 | Dreamstime.com
Bean Hollow State Beach is one of the few state beaches where dogs are allowed. If you want to bring Fido to the beach, make sure that your dog is leashed at all times. Also make sure that your dog leash is no more than six feet. Following leash laws is very important, because you don’t want your pup to get into a scuffle with an agitated harbor seal.
Olga Vasylieva | Dreamstime.com
Trendy surf spot Half Moon Bay is located about 17 miles from Bean Hollow State Beach. If you’re searching for a tranquil alternative to Half Moon Bay where you can watch the waves roll in instead of trying to catch one, a short drive to Bean Hollow State Beach is an absolute must.
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Jaahnlieb | Dreamstime.com
Bean Hollow State Beach is the ideal place to observe the rich ecosystem and whimsical weathered stone of the Pacific Coast. An otherworldly rocky beach surrounded by surging waves is the ideal place for a contemplative stroll and a serene picnic. Bean Hollow State Beach is an excellent place to enjoy the beauty of Northern California’s coastline without the crowds of Half Moon Bay.
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Bean Hollow State Beach, Highway 1 near Pescadero, California, USA
- Coordinates
- 37.23058, -122.41216
- Access
- Two beach parking areas linked by the one-mile Arroyo de los Frijoles Trail. Bring water; dogs on a leash up to 6 ft. No collecting pebbles or disturbing tide pools; swimming is dangerous because of surf and rip currents
- Admission
- California State Parks lists Bean Hollow among parks with no entrance or day-use fee; check parking signs on arrival.
- Time needed
- The self-guided Arroyo de los Frijoles Trail links the two beach parking areas over one mile; additional beach and tide-pool stops vary.
- Best season
- California State Parks does not name a preferred calendar season for Bean Hollow. For tide-pool viewing, its coastal tide-pool guidance recommends visiting near the lowest spring tides; check a local tide table for the date, and avoid disturbing marine life.
- Opening hours
- 08:00–sunset; no camping
- Location checked
- 2026-09-25
- Facts checked
- 2026-09-30
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