Gray Whale Cove State Beach

Gray Whale Cove State Beach is located at Highway 1 in Half Moon Bay, California and is approximately 25 miles from San Francisco International Airport. Sat at the base of the Montara Mountain, the beach is named for its bluff top views of the whale migrations along the coast. There is parking available on the east side of Highway 1, a road which can be treacherous at times in the rain or at night.

Also known as Devil's Slide, this is one of the few beaches in California officially recognized as a naturist or clothing optional beach. There is a sheltered cove here surrounded by cliffs and there is a steep trail that takes visitors down to the beach. It is very popular with families and sunbathers but dogs are to be kept on a leash.

On the bluff above is a picnic area and visitors are requested not to make fires on the beach itself. There is a one mile trail in McKnee Ranch State Park, which overlooks the beach and is a great place to see spring wildflowers such as pink hollyhocks and yellow buttercups. Montara State Beach is close by and is a popular spot for surf fishing and tidepools.