Asilomar State Beach
Pacific Grove, CA

Asilomar State Beach fronts the historic Asilomar Conference Grounds, a rugged, rocky stretch of coast with a boardwalk crossing the dunes to protect the fragile habitat behind the sand. The conference grounds themselves, a genuine architectural landmark, add real history to what's otherwise a scenic, walk-focused beach.
The dune boardwalk and historic conference grounds give it real character beyond a typical rocky beach, though the surf and rocks here keep it a walking beach, not a swimming one.
How we score beachesWalk the dune boardwalk at low tide if tide pools interest you, the rocky stretches here are some of the richest on the Monterey Peninsula.
Free parking is available near the conference grounds.
A boardwalk crosses the dunes from parking to the beach.
Dogs are welcome; check posted signage for specific leash rules.
Fog is common most mornings year round, typical of the Monterey Peninsula.
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