Pacific Valley Beach

Pacific Valley is a quaint set of fields inland from a much more rugged section of coast. Here there are great trails to explore the tall rocks and tiny coves. Stretched out in the middle of this section of the Big Sur coast is a beach that is full of opportunities to explore. The soft, silky sand makes a great area to lounge and relax, while the small caves and tide pools offer their own discoveries.

Pacific Valley Beach is best accessed at lower tides when the entire beach is above the lapping ocean waves. At higher tides there are still beaches open, though they become fragmented and broken apart. Walking the Pacific Bluffs Trail will reveal many different access points to the beaches. Just be careful on the descent, and watch for poison oak! During summer and falls months many poison oak shrubs do not have leaves, but the oil still lies inside the stems. If you are unsure what poison oak looks like, educate yourself or simply stay away from contacting any leafy shrubs and bare stems.