This iconic Northern California beach (not to be confused with Pirate’s Cove Beach in Southern California's Malibu) can only be accessed by a one-and-a-half-mile hike beginning at nearby Muir Beach. The coastal trail climbs and summits along an incredible cliffside, providing views almost as impressive as the beach itself. Pirates Cove Beach is a small and secluded rocky cove that follows a steep descent – it truly is the "pirate's booty" of Northern California, as its views and environment are absolute treasures. On a clear day, stunning panoramas of San Francisco make for an energetic beach day, while on foggier ones the sounds of the foghorns and the ocean provide a sleepy vibe.
Restrooms and picnic tables line the beginning of the trail but the beach itself has no facilities, so stock up on bounty before heading to Pirates Cove Beach!
