Asilomar State Beach
A mile-long stretch of sandy beach and rocky coves, perfect for tide pooling, sunset viewing, and scenic coastal walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for tide pool exploration
Asilomar State Beach
Best Time
Best for tide pool exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A mile-long stretch of sandy beach and rocky coves, perfect for tide pooling, sunset viewing, and scenic coastal walks.
"This is my favorite beach in Pacific grove and Monterey. It is so beautiful and peaceful."
Check Tide Charts First
Essential for tide pooling! Low tide reveals the best marine life. :ocean:
Arrive Early for Parking
Sunset Drive fills up fast. Aim for an hour before sundown to secure a spot. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tide Pools Teeming with Life
Rocky coves along the beach
Discover miniature marine worlds filled with sculpins, crabs, and other fascinating sea creatures during low tide.
Breathtaking Sunset Views
Along Sunset Drive and the beach
Witness vibrant hues paint the sky over the Pacific Ocean – a truly unforgettable coastal spectacle.
Scenic Coastal Walking Trail
Parallel to Sunset Drive
Stroll or bike along this picturesque path through dunes and pine forests, offering stunning ocean vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Tide Pool Adventure
Sunset Spectacle & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Charts First
Essential for tide pooling! Low tide reveals the best marine life. :ocean:
Arrive Early for Parking
Sunset Drive fills up fast. Aim for an hour before sundown to secure a spot. :car:
Dress in Layers
Coastal winds can be chilly, even on sunny days. :wind_chime:
Leashed Dogs Welcome
Enjoy the beach and trails with your furry friend. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Charts First
Essential for tide pooling! Low tide reveals the best marine life. :ocean:
Arrive Early for Parking
Sunset Drive fills up fast. Aim for an hour before sundown to secure a spot. :car:
Dress in Layers
Coastal winds can be chilly, even on sunny days. :wind_chime:
Leashed Dogs Welcome
Enjoy the beach and trails with your furry friend. :dog:
Respect Marine Life
Observe tide pool creatures without disturbing them. Leave no trace. :shell:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Asilomar State Beach for its stunning sunsets and accessible tide pools, calling it a peaceful and beautiful escape. The scenic coastal trail is a major draw for leisurely walks. While parking can be challenging during peak times, the free access and natural beauty make it a highly recommended spot on the Monterey Peninsula.
"Our party-of-5 adult visitors to Central California (from U.S. Midwest & the UK) headed to Asilomar State Beach after a late dinner in Monterey, to see an awesome late June sunset under clear skies. We arrived approx. 20 minutes before sundown, and the roadside parking slots along Sunset Drive were filling up fast. But we luckily found a spot to tuck in, then took a short walk to a beach access point. We were all very pleased to see the beautiful sunset over the Pacific waves on a very clean beach with soft sand, and it's a sight we will all remember for a long time. I'd recommend arriving @ Asilomar SB about an hour prior to sunset and put a blanket down close to the surf line, as late comers seem prone to standing & blocking the sightlines of people who set up to watch the show from viewpoints closer to the road."
JMC STL
"I came to this beach specifically to watch the sunset and boy oh boy it did not disappoint! 🤩 I lucked out with convenient parking next to a staircase and a good spot on the beach. I would love to spend the whole day here … even enjoy a bonfire after sunset (which is allowed on one side of the beach)."
Benicia
"Tide pools are amazing! 10/10 recommend for a stop to see the miniature crabs in the tide pools!"
Deidre Rioux
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Asilomar State Beach is located in Pacific Grove, California, along Sunset Drive. It's easily accessible by car. Ample street parking is available along Sunset Drive, though it can fill up quickly, especially for sunset.
While direct public transportation to the beach itself might be limited, you can reach Pacific Grove via local bus services from Monterey. From there, a short taxi or rideshare would get you to the beach.
Many visitors enjoy walking the scenic coastal trail that runs alongside Sunset Drive. It offers diverse terrain, from sandy dunes to pine forests, and provides access to different beach sections and tide pools.
Yes, Asilomar State Beach is part of a beautiful stretch of coastline in Pacific Grove, extending from Lover's Point. It's a great addition to a day exploring the Monterey Peninsula.
Absolutely! Sunset Drive offers stunning ocean vistas and is a popular route for a leisurely drive, especially around golden hour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Asilomar State Beach offers free access to the public. You can enjoy its natural beauty without any admission cost.
Asilomar State Beach is generally open from dawn to dusk. However, specific access points or facilities might have slightly different hours. It's always a good idea to check local advisories if you plan a very early or late visit.
No advance booking is required as Asilomar State Beach is a public park with free entry.
Visitors are asked to respect the marine life and keep the beach litter-free. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash.
Bonfires are allowed on one side of the beach, but it's advisable to check current regulations and fire restrictions with the local authorities before planning one. [^R]
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular activities include exploring tide pools, watching stunning sunsets, walking the coastal trail, wildlife viewing (seals, sea lions, otters), and picnicking. 
The best time to explore the tide pools is during low tide. Check tide charts for the lowest tide times, which often occur in the early morning or late evening.
You might spot harbor seals, sea lions, and even sea otters swimming offshore. The coastal areas are also rich in birdlife.
Yes, it's great for families! Kids can enjoy playing on the sandy beach, exploring shallow tide pools, and the easy walking trails.
It's recommended to wear layers as the coastal wind can be cool. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the trails and rocky areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food vendors directly at Asilomar State Beach. However, Pacific Grove and nearby Monterey offer a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. You can bring your own food and enjoy it with the beautiful ocean views.
Pacific Grove has many charming restaurants. You can also find numerous eateries in Monterey, including those around Old Fisherman's Wharf.
Bonfires are permitted on certain areas of the beach, which could allow for cooking. However, always verify current fire regulations and restrictions. [^R]
Monterey is famous for its seafood. Old Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey offers many seafood restaurants with ocean views.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just before and after sunset, offers stunning light for photography. Early mornings are also beautiful and less crowded.
The rocky coves, the sandy beach during sunset, the coastal trail with its diverse landscapes, and the tide pools are all highly photogenic.
Yes, you can photograph seals, sea lions, and various bird species. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and use a zoom lens if possible.
Generally, no specific photography restrictions apply, but always be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes and sunsets. A telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and plenty of snacks. The beach is free to access, making it a budget-friendly option for a day out. While there are no direct food facilities, the nearby town of Pacific Grove offers plenty of family-friendly dining choices.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to always keep your dog under control and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. 🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers
It's a relatively easy trail, suitable for a leisurely stroll or a more brisk hike, and provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the natural beauty of the Monterey Peninsula. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Asilomar's Rich Tide Pools
It's crucial to check the tide charts before your visit, as the best exploration windows occur when the tide is at its lowest. Early mornings or late evenings often present these opportunities. Remember to tread carefully on the slippery rocks and avoid disturbing the delicate ecosystem. When exploring, wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as the rocks can be slick. It's also advisable to bring a small bucket or container to temporarily hold any interesting finds for closer inspection, but always return them gently to their original spot before the tide comes back in. The marine protected areas here are vital for these creatures, so observing them without interference is key to preserving this natural wonder.
Many visitors find the tide pools to be a highlight of their Asilomar experience, offering a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world. The sheer diversity of life in these small pools is often a source of wonder for all ages.
Chasing the Perfect Sunset
+2 The one-mile stretch of beach provides ample space, but popular viewpoints can get crowded, especially during peak season. [^R]To make the most of your sunset experience, it's highly recommended to arrive at least an hour before sundown. This allows ample time to find parking along Sunset Drive, which can be challenging as the day winds down, and to secure a good spot on the sand.
Bringing a blanket or beach chairs will enhance your comfort as you settle in to watch the show. Some visitors even enjoy bonfires after sunset, adding a cozy element to the evening. [^R]The combination of the serene beach, the sound of the waves, and the spectacular display in the sky makes sunset at Asilomar State Beach an unforgettable experience. It's a moment of natural beauty that many visitors cherish and remember long after their trip.
+1Wildlife Encounters at Asilomar
Keep an eye out for sea otters, known for their playful antics, often seen floating on their backs in kelp beds. [^R] The marine protected areas here play a crucial role in providing food sources and safe havens for these animals. The coastal trails and dunes are also rich in birdlife. You might spot various shorebirds foraging along the waterline, as well as songbirds in the coastal scrub and pine forests.
Springtime can bring beautiful wildflower blooms along the trails, adding to the scenic beauty and attracting pollinators. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance. Using binoculars or a telephoto lens can enhance your viewing experience without disturbing the animals. It's a privilege to share this space with these creatures, and responsible viewing ensures their continued presence.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit