Asilomar State Beach in California, USA - map and visitor information

Research checked: 2026-10-23. Check linked official notices before travel.

Asilomar State Beach in Pacific Grove, California, combines a rocky shoreline, sandy coves and a restored dune preserve. California State Parks manages the beach and adjoining historic conference grounds. Come for a coastal walk or a careful look at tide pools. Plan restroom stops across the street, because the beach has no restrooms.

Highlights along the Asilomar coast

• Follow the coast trail for ocean views without entering the tide pools.
• Explore the dune preserve on its quarter-mile boardwalk.
• Look for intertidal animals during a suitable low tide, leaving everything in place.

Plan a visit to Asilomar

Fees, hours, and seasonal access

Stay clear of waves and rising tides

Watch the ocean while exploring the rocks. Large waves can reach beyond the wet shoreline, and a rising tide can cut off a return route. Wear shoes with good grip and keep children close. The state's Asilomar tide pool guidance explains how to plan around tides and surf.

Protect the dunes and marine life

Remain on established trails and dune boardwalks. Walk bicycles through the dune preserve. Keep dogs on a leash and give nesting shorebirds space. Follow temporary protection signs. Alcohol and fires are prohibited on the beach.

Asilomar State Marine Reserve protects the adjoining shore and waters. Do not fish, collect shells or rocks, handle tide pool animals, or turn over their sheltering rocks.

Separate beach visits from overnight lodging

For an overnight stay, arrange lodging at the adjacent Asilomar Conference Grounds through its concessioner. A room reservation does not permit camping on the beach.

Maps, location, and beach access

Use Sunset Drive in Pacific Grove for shoreline access. Park only in permitted spaces and keep the bicycle lane clear. The conference grounds entrance is at Asilomar Avenue and Sinex Avenue. Its address is 800 Asilomar Avenue; the state park office is separately located at 804 Crocker Avenue.

The state accessibility guide describes the 0.75-mile coast trail and dune boardwalk. Check the route that suits your needs before choosing a beach access point.

Nearby parks by road

Monterey State Beach is another stop around Monterey Bay, with access near Del Monte Avenue in Monterey and Highway 218 in Seaside. Carmel River State Beach lies toward Carmel via Highway 1; use the main access at the end of Carmelo and check current road restrictions before setting out.

Coastal walks, dunes, and tide pools

Choose the coast trail for a shoreline walk, then cross to the Asilomar Dunes Natural Preserve boardwalk for a closer look at restored dune habitat. Tide pooling needs a separate decision about surf and tide conditions. If conditions are unsuitable, stay on the coastal route instead.

Facilities on each side of Sunset Drive

The beach has no picnic facilities or restrooms. Public restrooms are in Phoebe Hearst Social Hall within the conference grounds across the street. The grounds also have a cafe and other concession services. A beach wheelchair and beach walker can be borrowed through the conference front desk; call 831-372-8016 to ask about availability.

About Asilomar State Beach

Conference grounds and coastal preservation

Asilomar became a state park in 1956. The adjoining former YWCA conference grounds contain buildings designed by architect Julia Morgan. Dune restoration began in the 1980s, and the natural preserve designation followed in 2005.

Nesting birds and tide pool habitat

Black oystercatchers nest along this coast. Watch from a distance, especially where signs protect nesting sites. The dune preserve also supports the black legless lizard and native plants such as Menzies' wallflower.

Contact Asilomar

Call the state park office at 831-646-6440. Use the official Asilomar page for current notices and links to conference lodging.