Best Family Friendly Beaches in Big Sur

Located to the north of Gamboa Point, Gamboa Point Beach - also known as China Basin Beach - is a picturesque beach along the Big Sur coastline that is surrounded by private property and inaccessible to the general public. The beach is situated below steep coastal bluffs and has light brown sand and some rock formations. There are palm trees and a grassy park adjacent to the beach. 

Pfeiffer Beach also featured in USA Today's list of Top Ten Beaches in California in 2015 and countless other lists on travel planners. Moreover, it is popular among pet lovers as it allows dogs on leash and is one of the few beaches in the Big Sur region to do so. If you are planning to go into the water near Pfeiffer Beach, we recommend being extremely careful and preferably wearing a wetsuit as the water here is extremely cold and is known for dangerous rip currents. Moreover, between May and July, this part of the Big Sur coastline becomes extremely foggy (a phenomenon known locally as the "June Gloom") which can make navigation difficult while in the water near Pfeiffer Beach. Nevertheless, you can stay on the beach and observe a variety of animals present in the water here including seals, sea lions, dolphins, and migrating grey whales (between December and April). You can also explore the tide pools present on the northern side of the beach during low tides which contain a variety of animals including crabs, mollusks, and sea urchins. You can also explore the various interesting rock formations present around the beach shoreline. Pfeiffer Beach is a popular spot among photographers for its unique geographical features. We recommend visiting this beach at around sunset as during this time sun rays seem to pass through the natural tunnel at Keyhole Arch, presenting a beautiful illusory effect.

Located In The Southern Part Of Monterey County, Willow Creek is a beach that Is a part Of Los Padres National Forest. This beach has a picnic area as well. The Narrow Road leading to the beach adds to the adventure of reaching this serene spot.

Located in the southern part of the Big Sur Region, Sand Dollar Beach is a large beach in Monterey County that is managed by the Los Padres National Forest. The beach has light brown sand. The beach has a backdrop of the mountains present along the Big Sur coastline. Sand Dollar Beach is part of a cove, which protects it from the winds coming in from the north and the south. Sand Dollar Beach does not have lifeguards. However, there is a picnic area adjacent to the beach that has picnic tables, restrooms, and barbecue spots. The beach also allows dogs on leash.