How to Find a Nude Beach in Northern California

Nude Beaches are increasing in popularity. As our society lowers its inhibitions, we are finding freedom in letting go of some previously accepted limitations. Use this information to help you find a nude beach in the San Francisco area.

Instructions

1. Grey Whale Cove is one choice for nude beaches in the San Francisco area. It is run by the state of California and nudity is allowed. However, the number of clothed guests is on the rise. This beach has its most favorable conditions in September and October. Throughout the remainder of the year, the beach is rather cool. You will be able to enjoy a wide range of wildlife, perhaps even a great white shark. Unlike many other nude beaches, Grey Whale Cove has easy access. Unfortunately, the beach is not suitable for swimming. To reach Grey Whale Cove, take CA 1 South out of San Francisco until you are between mile markers 37.7 and 38.06. Then, look for a building in ruins on top of a cliff near the beach. You will need to look on the west side of CA 1 for an unmarked road. Take this road and you will reach the parking lot. Take the staircase to the sand.

2. Montara State Beach is also near San Francisco. The majority of this beach is used by clothed families. There are rangers on patrols who will issue citations if you are caught nude. So if you do decide to go to this beach, be sure you bring clothes with you and have them close by at all times. The nude section of this beach is at the north end near the dunes. The water is frigid and not comfortable for swimming. You can reach Montara State beach by taking CA 1 south out of San Francisco. Travel 20 miles and you will see signs for the beach.

3. Pompino is an extremely difficult place to access. In fact, you may end up crawling on your knees to reach the spot. However, once you are there, you will find a cove and over a mile of flat sand. The only accommodations available at Pompino are chemical toilets. Nude swimming is prohibited at this beach. To reach Pompino, take CA 1 north. Pass Pescadero State Beach and continue for two more miles.

4. San Gregorio Beach is much friendlier to the nudist community. This is a clean beach with caves and cliffs. The beach is privately owned, so a $2 per adult fee is charged for entrance. The beach is predominantly used by gay men. Heterosexuals generally stay more to the south end of the beach. Again, swimming is not recommended at this beach. To reach San Gregorio, take CA 1 toward Half Moon bay until you are between mileposts 18 and 19. You will have to look very carefully for the entrance to the beach. It is on the west side of the highway, just north of CA 84. Look for a gate with the address 119429 on the gate post. Park in the parking lot and travel down the path to the beach.

Tips & Warnings

• In San Gregorio Beach, be sure to stay within the nude section of the beach. The nude section is marked by a Hazardous Surf sign. If you wander outside of this area, you are open to a citation.