San Gregorio is a classic northern California beach: relatively narrow, set at the base of cliffs, with unpredictable weather, cold water, and dangerous undertows that make swimming inadvisable for most people.

Yet, on a sunny day, this is a fantastic place for sunbathing, beach sports and picnics. There seem to be miles of beach, mostly stretching south from the parking lot, and the crowds tend toward mellow and eclectic, with lots of families mixing among couples and serious volleyball players.

There's a fairly big parking lot, adequate most of the time, but overflowing on nice summer weekends. There are also restrooms and picnic tables, but carrying your picnic onto the beach will be a lot more scenic. You can get supplies at the store in tiny nearby San Gregorio.

Private Martin's beach, which charges a per car fee, lies just north of San Gregorio Beach, and is popular among the clothing optional set.

Recommended: Yes

Best time to go: June-August
Recommended for: Anybody
Review Topic: Overview