Point Piedras Blancas
San Simeon, CA

Point Piedras Blancas is a rocky outcropping with wide ocean views, part of the same stretch of coast as the historic lighthouse and the famous elephant seal rookery just south. It's a good stop for the view alone, blufftop trails giving a wider look at the point than the roadside pullouts nearby.
A genuinely scenic rocky point with real history behind the lighthouse nearby, though it's a viewpoint more than a beach to spend time on.
How we score beachesCombine this with the elephant seal viewing area just down the road, the two make a natural pairing on the same stretch of coast.
A day use fee applies, though the CCC records no formal parking area; check current signage.
Blufftop trails lead to the point.
Dogs are not allowed on the guided Piedras Blancas Light Station tour or on the surrounding boardwalks and trails.
Fog is common most mornings year round, typical of this stretch of the Central Coast.
More Pacific Coast beaches

Zuma Beach
Malibu, CA · Pacific Coast
A wide stretch of sand backed by the Santa Monica Mountains, with reliable swells that draw surfers year-round and plenty of room to spread out even on busy weekends.

Huntington City Beach
Huntington Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Known as Surf City USA, with a mile-long municipal pier, consistent breaks for surfers of every level, and a laid-back boardwalk scene along Pacific Coast Highway.

Main Beach
Laguna Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Tucked between rocky headlands, with tidepools to explore at low tide, calmer coves for swimming, and an arts-town backdrop of galleries and cafes just steps from the sand.
