Asilomar State Beach and Coast Trail
A serene 3.6-mile coastal trail and beach in Pacific Grove, offering tide pools, stunning sunsets, and a peaceful escape.
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Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for tide pooling
Asilomar State Beach and Coast Trail
Best Time
Best for tide pooling
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 3.6-mile coastal trail and beach in Pacific Grove, offering tide pools, stunning sunsets, and a peaceful escape.
"A perfect little beach trail to say goodbye to the area before going back home. So beautiful."
Check Tide Charts First
Essential for tide pool exploration! Lowest tides are key. :iphone:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be uneven; good footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Asilomar Coast Trail
Pacific Grove, CA
A scenic 3.6-mile out-and-back path offering gentle terrain and stunning ocean vistas. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Tide Pools
Along the coast
Discover fascinating marine creatures during low tide. Look for anemones, sea stars, and small fish in these natural pools.
Sunset Views
Western coastline
Experience spectacular sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. The western side of the trail offers breathtaking views as the day ends.
Boardwalk through Dunes
Near the beach
A short boardwalk winds through 25 acres of sand dunes, offering a different perspective of the coastal ecosystem.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Tide Pool Adventure
Trail Access & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Charts First
Essential for tide pool exploration! Lowest tides are key. :iphone:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be uneven; good footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Alternative to Crowded Spots
A great option if Point Lobos or 17-Mile Drive are too busy or expensive.
Pack Layers
Coastal weather can change quickly; bring extra clothing. :cloud:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Charts First
Essential for tide pool exploration! Lowest tides are key. :iphone:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be uneven; good footwear is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Alternative to Crowded Spots
A great option if Point Lobos or 17-Mile Drive are too busy or expensive.
Pack Layers
Coastal weather can change quickly; bring extra clothing. :cloud:
Respect Trail Closures
Some areas may be closed due to storm damage. Stay on marked paths. :construction:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Asilomar State Beach and Coast Trail for its stunning natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and spectacular sunset views. It's frequently cited as a wonderful, less crowded alternative to more popular nearby attractions. While most experiences are positive, some visitors have noted occasional trail closures due to storm damage or encounters with individuals experiencing homelessness in sheltered areas. +1
"A perfect little beach trail to say goodbye to the area before going back home. Always a sad walk because of that fact, but so beautiful."
Carlos Garcia
"If you can’t find a parking at Point Lobos or you don’t want to pay for the 17 Mile drive, this is a great alternative. As a matter of fact, it might be even better. The sunset is spectacular!"
Peter Bojakowski
"Mostly reopened after the major storm damage from about a month ago, west side has a number of sections of the trail and steps down to the beach 🏖 area closed. East side has distant views of snow peaked mountains ⛰. Vehicle roadways back to normal. Still worth stopping and walking or viewing.
Great views again, including a fearless great white egret (see video)."
Rob Haworth
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Asilomar State Beach is located in Pacific Grove, California. You can reach it by car via Highway 1. Street parking is available along the coast, though it can fill up on busy weekends.
Yes, there is street parking available along the coast. Weekday parking is generally easier to find than on weekends.
Public transport options are limited directly to the beach. It's best to check local Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) routes for buses that run through Pacific Grove.
Dogs are generally allowed on leash on the beach and trails at Asilomar State Beach, but always check local regulations before your visit. :dog:
Asilomar is near the famous 17-Mile Drive and Highway 1, offering stunning coastal scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Asilomar State Beach and its trails are generally free to access. There is no entrance fee required. :ticket:
Asilomar State Beach is typically open from sunrise to sunset. However, specific access to certain areas might vary. :clock:
No, advance booking is not required as there is no entrance fee. You can visit anytime during daylight hours. :calendar:
Be aware that some sections of the trail and beach access may be closed due to storm damage. Always follow posted signs. :construction:
Absolutely! It's a perfect spot for a day trip, offering beautiful scenery, walking trails, and tide pools. :day_trip:
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Asilomar Coast Trail is a 3.6-mile out-and-back path known for its gentle terrain and beautiful ocean views. It's ideal for a relaxed walk or a short run.
The best time to explore tide pools is during low tide. Check local tide charts for the lowest tide times, as they can occur early or late. :ocean:
Restroom facilities are generally available at Asilomar State Beach, though their exact location and availability can vary. :restroom:
You can spot various marine life in the tide pools, seabirds along the coast, and sometimes seals or otters. A great egret was recently spotted here! :bird:
The trail is generally gentle, but some sections can be uneven. The boardwalk through the dunes is more accessible.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the coastline, dramatic sunsets, marine life in tide pools, and the unique dune landscape.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be good for tide pool close-ups.
The entire coastline offers beautiful vistas. Look for interesting rock formations and the egret often seen near the water.
Drone usage is often restricted in state parks and beaches. It's crucial to check with the California State Parks for current regulations before flying. :drone:
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a macro lens is useful for tide pool photography. A tripod can help with sunset shots. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The tide pools are a huge hit with kids, providing an exciting opportunity to discover marine life up close. 🚶 Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
Street parking is generally free, making it an economical option for enjoying the California coast. 📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Asilomar's Tide Pools
When exploring, look for rocky areas along the coastline. The water in the pools can be surprisingly clear, revealing the colorful inhabitants. Bring a magnifying glass if you want a closer look at the smaller creatures. Always be mindful of slippery rocks and incoming tides.
The experience is educational and awe-inspiring, making it a must-do for nature lovers visiting the area. The Asilomar Coast Trail Experience
The trail hugs the coastline, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, dramatic rock formations, and the sandy shores. It's a fantastic alternative to more crowded or expensive nearby attractions like Point Lobos or the 17-Mile Drive. Along the trail, you'll encounter diverse coastal habitats, including sand dunes with a boardwalk section, rocky outcrops perfect for spotting marine life, and open beaches. The western side of the trail is particularly renowned for its spectacular sunset views, making it a perfect spot to end your day.
Navigating Asilomar's Coastal Charm
Visitors often praise the peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal escape for those seeking tranquility. Beyond the beach and trails, Pacific Grove itself is a delightful town with charming inns and dining options, as highlighted by local tourism efforts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit