This Scenic West Coast Beach In California Is A Lesser-Known Gem For Fishing, Wildlife, And Ocean Views

There is certainly no shortage of beaches in California — 427 in total, spread across the Golden State's 840 miles of coastline along the Pacific Ocean. While some, such as Laguna Beach, are known far and wide, others are a bit more under the radar. Despite the sheer volume of public beaches in California, every mile of sandy shoreline has something to offer. That is certainly true of Bean Hollow State Beach, a 1-mile-long stretch on the San Mateo County coast. Although it's not exactly hidden, this lesser-known beach is a gem for anyone who enjoys fishing, watching wildlife, and taking in stunning views without being engulfed by crowds.

Bean Hollow State Beach is actually one of close to a dozen beach parks clustered along the coast in San Mateo County, which is less than an hour south of San Francisco. Many of the county's beaches are somewhat scattered apart. However, the 44-acre Bean Hollow State Beach actually encompasses two public beaches. Bean Hollow Beach is connected to the small yet scenic Pebble Beach via the 1-mile Arroyo de los Frijoles Trail.

Parking lots are available at both the Pebble Beach and Bean Hollow Beach portions of the park. Beachgoers who are up for a bit of hiking can enjoy both beaches in a single visit thanks to the connecting trail. In fact, walking along the Arroyo de los Frijoles Trail is a great way to take in much of the scenery at Bean Hollow, which winds past dramatic rocky cliffs, tide pools, and patches of wildflowers. The trail also traverses several wooden bridges along the way. 

While the Arroyo de los Frijoles Trail provides tremendous ocean vistas, getting off the trail is the best way to get the full experience of Bean Hollow State Beach. Wildlife viewing is one of the top activities here. However, it varies somewhat from other popular nature-watching destinations. A good many species of birds, particularly shore birds, can be spotted at the beach. There are also a few mammals, most notably harbor seals, that will make an appearance as well. It's even possible to catch a glimpse of migrating whales from the higher overlook points in the park.

That said, the vast majority of wildlife watching opportunities at Bean Hollow take place in the tide pools, most of which are located on the southern end of the park around Bean Hollow Beach. Tide pools are areas of seawater that remain in the rocky formations on shore during periods of low tide. When the tide recedes, a myriad of marine life is exposed in the pools. Visitors to Bean Hollow are regularly able to view creatures such as starfish, sea urchins, crabs, sea anemones, and even small fish in the tide pools. 

Visitors can also explore tide pools at Pebble Beach, particularly on the south end of the beach. However, the big attraction at Pebble Beach is its namesake pebbles. These smooth, round, colorful stones are comprised of various types of stone, including agate, jade, jasper, and moonstone. The other headliner is the tafoni rocks. Found on both Bean Hollow and Pebble Beach, tafoni rocks are unique, honeycomb-like sandstone formations. 

Fishing is another popular pastime at Bean Hollow State Beach. Surf perch are the primary target species for most anglers along the beachfront at Bean Hollow. Rockfish, mackerel, and Pacific halibut are among the other commonly caught species, per Guidesly. Most anglers spend their time surf-casting with conventional rods and either natural baits or artificial jigs. However, there are some fly fishing opportunities at Bean Hollow as well. All anglers aged 16 or older need a valid California fishing license.

Despite the amazing views, natural wonders, and available activities, Bean Hollow State Beach remains relatively crowd-free, which is why Fodor's lists it among the most underrated beaches in California. While this small beach park has plenty to see and do, there are a couple things you can't — or shouldn't — do while visiting. For one, despite the many intricate shells, stones, and marine specimens found along the shore, collecting natural materials from the land is illegal without appropriate permits in California's state parks. Additionally, due to the cold water and strong currents, Bean Hollow is not considered a safe area for swimming.

Getting to Bean Hollow State Beach is relatively simple for those who have a car. It is located right on California's Highway 1, about 45 miles south of San Francisco and 30 miles north of Santa Cruz. San Francisco International (SFO) is the nearest commercial airport. Overnight camping is not allowed at the state beach, but there are a few lodging options in nearby Pescadero, California's under-the-radar coastal getaway with renowned foodie gems. About 20 minutes up Highway 1, visitors will find more accommodations in Half Moon Bay, a laid-back city with additional sandy beaches. Camping is available at Half Moon Bay State Beach Campground, as well as Butano State Park, one of America's best-kept secrets from tourists.