Cascade Creek Beach

The trailhead for Cascade Creek Trail sits discreetly beside a gated fence along Highway 1. This half-mile trail leads to one of the many beaches in the beautiful Ano Nuevo State Park. Finding this trail can be difficult, as there are no signs from the road denoting any parking or trails. There are a few small informational signs attached to fence posts at the trailhead, however, and they let you know you've found the right spot. 

Reaching the beach is an easy hike. The path is flat and takes you through an open meadow until it reaches the shore. This beach is sandy and very roomy. Cascade Creek is one of the less traveled trails in the park, so you can expect low congestion. The wind is fairly consistent, which produces ideal conditions for kite and wind surfing. 

Ano Nuevo State Park is an important breeding ground for Elephant Seals. An area of this park and the hiking trails in it are restricted during certain times of the year. If you decide to cross Cascade Creek, you would be entering the protected area, so check with the park for current access information and limitations before you head out.