A wooden boardwalk winding through the dunes at Asilomar State Beach

Beach and tide pools · Pacific Grove

Asilomar State Beach

A rugged stretch of coast with tide pools, a dune boardwalk, and some of the best sunsets on the Peninsula.

Photo: John Loo from Sunnyvale, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Asilomar State Beach runs along the western edge of Pacific Grove, with rocky tide pools, sandy coves, and restored dunes crossed by a boardwalk. Across the road, the historic Asilomar Conference Grounds include buildings designed by architect Julia Morgan.

It is a favorite for an unhurried walk, and the west-facing shore makes it a natural place to end the day.

Good to know

  • Check a tide chart and go at low tide for the best tide pooling.
  • Stay off the restored dunes and use the boardwalk.
  • The surf here is powerful. Admire it from the shore.

For current hours, tickets, and conditions, check the official source: California State Parks.