Explore the coastside town of Pescadero, CA. Home to Harley Farms Goat Dairy, Arcangeli's Grocery Co., Pigeon Point Lighthouse, beautiful beaches and so much more, Pescadero is a can’t-miss destination on Highway 1. Plan your getaway to The San Francisco Peninsula today!

Discover Pescadero - A Hidden Gem On The San Francisco Peninsula

Travel 14.4 miles south of Half Moon Bay and you’ll find the beautiful coastal town of Pescadero, CA. The town itself is small, with a population of only 643. However, its rich history, iconic landmarks, family-run businesses, local farms and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination on The San Francisco Peninsula. Plan your coastside adventure today! 

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About Pescadero, CA

The coastal town of Pescadero is part of San Mateo County and is a little over an hour south of San Francisco. The land was originally home to the Ohlone tribe, and in the 19th century, it became part of the Rancho Pescadero land grant, which was awarded to Juan José Gonzales in 1833. The town was officially established in 1856. The name Pescadero means “fishing place” in Spanish and by the end of the century, it had become a thriving trout fishing and seaside resort destination. Some of the buildings from that time are still standing in Pescadero today, like the 1867-built Pescadero Community Church and the Dickerman Barn, both of which are on the National Register of Historic Places.  

Today, the coastside farming and ranching community is a popular tourist destination. One of the town’s most famous attractions is the Pigeon Point Lighthouse – known as one of the tallest lighthouses in the U.S. Many people come to Pescadero in the summer to visit the town’s beaches, Memorial Park and Butano State Park. If you’re looking for local insights on where to eat, be sure to stop by Duarte’s Tavern for their famous artichoke soup and homemade olallieberry pie, as well as the family-owned bakery Arcangeli Grocery Co., which has been a staple in the Pescadero community since it opened in 1929. 

Hotels in Pescadero, CA

Nestled among acres of natural wilderness, coastal hills and secluded beaches, Pescadero offers a peaceful coastal getaway on The San Francisco Peninsula. Instead of the typical hotel chains, you’ll find one-of-a-kind hotel experiences like the Pescadero Creek Inn. This century old farmhouse is within walking distance of Pescadero’s downtown shops and restaurants. Wake up next to one of the tallest lighthouses in the West Coast at the HI Pigeon Point Lighthouse Hostel, which offers shared dorms as well as private rooms and vacation-rental-style accommodations. Or get away to the Costanoa Lodge + Camp + Resort, where you can choose to stay in their cabins, glamping tent bungalows, lodge or at the RV campground.

Looking for more options? Stay a few miles up the road in Half Moon Bay, where you’ll find everything from luxury resorts like The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay to boutique hotels like the Mill Rose Inn and Nantucket Whale Inn. 

Things to Do in Pescadero

Pigeon Point Lighthouse

At 115 feet, Pigeon Point Lighthouse is one of the tallest lighthouses in America. It’s been guiding mariners since it was first lit in 1872. While the interior of the lighthouse is currently undergoing restoration, you can still visit the iconic California landmark and walk around the lighthouse grounds. You might even see some seals or whales from the shore. 

Visit Pigeon Point Lighthouse

Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve 

Take in the natural beauty of the Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve. The 235-acre preserve is the only extensive wetland along the coast of The San Francisco Peninsula and is home to a tidal estuary, freshwater marsh, brackish water marsh, dense riparian woods and northern coastal scrub. There are four hiking trails: Butano Trail, Round Hill Trail, North Pound Trail and Sequoia Audubon Trail. Visitors are welcome to explore, but please stay on the trails to protect the wildlife and plants.  

Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve

Harley Farms Goat Dairy 

Head to Harley Farms Goat Dairy to sample farm-made cheese, take a guided tour and meet adorable baby goats! Baby Goat Farm Tours are offered from February through June and Farm Tours from July through October. Be sure to stop by the Farm Shop to take home some of their award-winning cheese, jams and beauty products. 

Explore Harley Farms

Local Events & Happenings 

If you’re planning a trip to The San Francisco Peninsula, be sure to check out what local events are happening in Pescadero. One of the town’s most beloved events is the Pescadero Arts & Fun Festival, held annually in August to showcase the talents of local artists and artisans. Nature lovers will want to attend the Seal Adventures at Año Nuevo State Park, a fundraiser held every February where visitors can see elephant seals during breeding season.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Pescadero, CA?

The coastside city of Pescadero, California, is located 14.4 miles south of Half Moon Bay and a little over an hour from San Francisco.
Getting Around The SFP

Is Pescadero, CA worth visiting? 

Pescadero is one of the must-visit destinations if you’re driving down the Pacific Coast Highway. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of San Francisco as you explore Pescadero’s beaches, historic landmarks, amazing wildlife and locally-loved dining.

Where are the best places to eat in Pescadero, CA? 

Pack your appetite. A trip to Pescadero isn’t complete without trying the artichoke soup at  Duarte’s Tavern, the garlic-herb and artichoke bread at Arcangeli Grocery Co. and getting Mexican food at Los Amigos Taqueria. 

Top Things To Do in Pescadero, CA?

Pescadero may be a small town but there are lots of things to do in this coastside city. Spend the day visiting one of the tallest lighthouses on the West Coast. Explore popular beaches like Pomponio State Beach and Pescadero State Beach. See elephant seals at Año Nuevo State Park. Or take a farm tour at Harley Farms Goat Dairy or Pie Ranch. There are so many adventures waiting for you.