Sand Dollar Beach
A rugged Big Sur gem known for its dramatic rocky shores and the chance to find unique sand dollar treasures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Sand Dollar Beach
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rugged Big Sur gem known for its dramatic rocky shores and the chance to find unique sand dollar treasures.
"It's a very nice beach for surfing and has wonderful views."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The beach is rocky, not sandy. Wear good shoes for exploring and navigating the terrain.
🚗 Parking Options
Paid parking ($10/day) is available, or find free spots along the road (limited).
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sand Dollar Treasures
Hunt for the iconic sand dollar skeletons, a unique souvenir from this rugged coast. Remember to leave live ones undisturbed.
+1
Dramatic Coastal Views
Marvel at the majestic Pacific backdrop and rugged cliffs. The sheer beauty of the coastline is a major draw.
Surfing Opportunities
This beach is a popular spot for surfers, with waves often suitable for longboarding.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Rocky Shoreline
Respecting the Sand Dollars
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The beach is rocky, not sandy. Wear good shoes for exploring and navigating the terrain.
🚗 Parking Options
Paid parking ($10/day) is available, or find free spots along the road (limited).
🌊 Mind the Tides
The tide can come up high, especially with large swells. Be cautious near the water's edge.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome on the beach, making it a great spot for furry friends.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The beach is rocky, not sandy. Wear good shoes for exploring and navigating the terrain.
🚗 Parking Options
Paid parking ($10/day) is available, or find free spots along the road (limited).
🌊 Mind the Tides
The tide can come up high, especially with large swells. Be cautious near the water's edge.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome on the beach, making it a great spot for furry friends.
📸 Capture the Majesty
The dramatic cliffs and ocean views offer incredible photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love Sand Dollar Beach for its dramatic coastal scenery and the chance to find sand dollars. The proximity to Plaskett Creek Campground is a major plus for campers. However, be aware that it's a rocky beach, not sandy, and the water is very cold.
"This place is amazing. Walking distance from plaskett creek campground. You will be able to have a short hike and have wonderful views. It's a very nice area. Information as of may 2025. This used to be a sand beach however it has so many rocks now. Very few areas with sand, so keep that in mind. It's a very nice beach for surfing.
Fishing information: yes, you can fish here. My luck has been only getting perch. Haven't gotten anything else, plenty of bait (sand crab) during the summer. Just have to look for them. Always carry your fishing license.
Parking available and you can have an area for a picnic with tables just at the entrance."
Julio Rengifo
"Looks like a nice day use area. It is $10 to park here for the day and it's $50 for the annual pass. I just came here to get an annual pass and it was cash only when I came by here on a Sunday in June. I will definitely have to come check the rest of this place out as others have mentioned it being very nice. The young lady at the window was very nice and helpful. The other day use areas are nice as well. But this is the place to go if you need the annual pass and I think the next place you can buy one is more towards SLO."
Timothy Te
"To park in the lot it costs $10 or you can park on the side of the road for free, but there are limited spots for that. The walkway down to the beach is a couple of switchbacks and stairs. The beach is very dog friendly. We stopped for only an hour but it would be a good spot for a beach day. Many people had awnings and had their kids."
Carolyn Spikes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sand Dollar Beach is located along Highway 1 in Big Sur, California. It's accessible by car, with parking available at the day-use area or along the roadside. The drive itself offers stunning coastal scenery.
Yes, there is a paid parking lot ($10 per day) at the entrance to Sand Dollar Beach. Limited free parking is also available along the side of Highway 1.
You can park on the side of Highway 1 for free, but these spots are limited and can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
While Highway 1 is scenic, it can be winding. Larger vehicles may find parking challenging. The beach itself is accessed via stairs and switchbacks.
The drive along Highway 1 to Sand Dollar Beach is renowned for its breathtaking coastal views. Be prepared for winding roads and pull over at designated viewpoints to soak it all in.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a $10 day-use fee to park in the lot. An annual pass is available for $50, which can be purchased at the entrance.
Tickets are not typically required in advance for day-use access. You pay the parking fee upon arrival.
Sand Dollar Beach is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific closing times posted for the beach itself, but parking areas may have restrictions.
Yes, an annual pass for $50 can be purchased at the Sand Dollar Beach entrance. It's a good option if you plan to visit multiple day-use areas in the region.
Historically, the annual pass purchase at Sand Dollar Beach has been cash only on Sundays. It's advisable to bring cash just in case for parking fees.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Sand Dollar Beach is primarily a rocky and boulder-strewn beach, not a sandy one. The tide can come up high, so be mindful of where you set up.
Yes, you can find sand dollars here! Remember to only collect the white, dry ones that are clearly dead. Live sand dollars should be left in the ocean.
The water at Sand Dollar Beach is very cold, even in summer. While some brave souls surf, swimming is generally not recommended due to the cold temperatures and potential currents.
Restrooms are available at Sand Dollar Beach, making it convenient for day trips.
Yes, there are picnic tables available at the entrance to Sand Dollar Beach, making it a great spot for a scenic lunch.
🎫 🎣 Fishing & Activities
Yes, fishing is permitted at Sand Dollar Beach. Anglers often catch perch, and sand crabs are abundant bait during the summer. Remember to carry your fishing license.
Sand Dollar Beach is a popular spot for surfers, particularly longboarders, due to its consistent waves.
While not extensive trails, there are short paths and stairs leading down to the beach from the parking area, offering wonderful views.
Besides sand dollars, you might spot various seabirds. The surrounding cliffs and ocean are part of the rich Big Sur ecosystem.
The rocky terrain and cold water might be challenging for very young children. However, older kids can enjoy exploring for sand dollars and rocks.
🎫 🏕️ Camping Nearby
Yes, Plaskett Creek Campground is located very close to Sand Dollar Beach, offering a convenient camping option with beautiful ocean views.
Campsites at Plaskett Creek Campground can be booked through Recreation.gov. It's recommended to book well in advance, as spots are popular.
Plaskett Creek Campground offers basic amenities, including restrooms and access to the beach. The hosts are known for being wonderful.
While dogs are welcome on Sand Dollar Beach, campground policies regarding pets should be checked directly with the campground or on Recreation.gov.
Camping at Plaskett Creek offers a chance to wake up to stunning ocean views and be steps away from Sand Dollar Beach. It's a popular spot for those wanting to immerse themselves in the Big Sur coast.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The walk down can be a bit challenging, so consider bringing a carrier for very young children. The picnic areas are great for a family lunch with a view. 🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
🐶 Pet Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Sand Dollars
+1 You'll often see them in shades of purple or brown when alive. It's crucial to remember that these creatures are living beings. If you encounter a sand dollar on the beach, observe it from a distance and avoid disturbing it. When a sand dollar dies, its soft tissues decompose, leaving behind its hard, calcium carbonate skeleton, known as a 'test.' These tests are typically white or off-white and are what people often collect as souvenirs.
+1 The intricate patterns on the test are unique to each sand dollar. Remember the rule: if it's fuzzy and moving, it's alive; if it's white and dry, it's a souvenir. This simple guideline helps protect these delicate creatures and their habitats.The Rugged Beauty of Sand Dollar Beach
The beach is accessed via a series of switchbacks and stairs, which can be a bit of a trek, especially for those with young children or mobility issues. However, the effort is rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the ocean and coastline.
Camping at Plaskett Creek: Your Big Sur Basecamp
+1Plaskett Creek is a popular spot, and booking your site in advance through Recreation.gov is essential.
The campground provides basic amenities, including restrooms, and is known for its friendly hosts. It's an ideal base for exploring Sand Dollar Beach, enjoying the scenic drive along Highway 1, and soaking in the natural wonders of the Big Sur region. Many visitors rave about the beautiful setting and the wonderful experience of camping so close to the ocean. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit