North Jade Cove

Located in Monterey County, North Jade Cove is a rocky cove area situated a mile south of Sand Dollar Beach in the Big Sur region, south of the Sand Dollar Day Use Area. Like the nearby Jade Cove, North Jade Cove is known for its jade deposits. The beach here can be slippery and jagged, requiring careful navigation. The water near the cove is notorious for rogue waves and strong currents, making it essential to exercise caution. The cove is nestled below a blufftop forested area, which is part of the Los Padres National Forest.

North Jade Cove does not have any lifeguards or public amenities, so visitors should plan accordingly.

North Jade Cove offers a variety of activities including beachcombing, tidepooling, rock hounding, scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, wildlife watching, kayaking, canoeing, boating, surfing, sunbathing, and swimming. The beach is especially popular for hunting for jade, which can be found in various colors, including green, black, red, blue, and white. The best time to visit for jade hunting is during low tide or after sea storms in winter when jade rocks are more likely to be deposited on the beach. Be sure to adhere to posted instructions regarding the permitted methods and maximum amount of jade collection. For those interested in marine life, the waters are home to seals, sea lions, dolphins, otters, and migrating grey whales (from December to April). Given the dangerous rip currents and strong waves, caution is advised for anyone entering the water. The rocky coastline can also be hazardous. Additionally, North Jade Cove is a prime fishing spot, with species such as bass, surfperch, grass fish, and cabezon. Ensure compliance with local fishing regulations, as the waters are part of a marine reserve.

Accessing North Jade Cove is straightforward, located near 69232 Cabrillo Highway. Free parking is available along the highway, and an access trail leads through trees and meadows to the cove. The path down to the beach is steep and partially eroded, with a support rope provided for safety.

The annual Big Sur Jade Festival is held near North Jade Cove in October, featuring exhibitions, vendor stalls selling jewelry and art, and live music performances. The event is hosted by Pacific Valley School, located nearby. Other attractions in the vicinity include the New Camaldoli Hermitage, with its lush gardens and ocean views, and the Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument, home to the Hearst Castle and various art galleries, historical exhibitions, and a visitor center. Salmon Creek Falls, within the Los Padres National Forest, is another scenic spot perfect for photography.

If you get hungry, there are many great restaurants near North Jade Cove. Lucia Lodge Restaurant is an upscale restaurant which was awarded Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice award in 2020 and offers a pleasant oceanfront dining experience. In addition, the restaurant also serves great seafood and sandwiches. Ragged Point Inn Restaurant is located 25 minutes away by car and offers excellent seafood dishes and steaks. If you are looking for another good and affordable restaurant near North Jade Cove, the modestly priced Whale Watcher’s Cafe features an exquisite marine-themed dining area and serves excellent seafood dishes.

If you are looking for a hotel near North Jade Cove, there are many great nearby options. If you are looking for an upscale hotel, the 5-Star Ventana Big Sur is 45 minutes away by car and offers many amenities including a restaurant, a clothing optional pool, a sauna, a fitness center, a spa , complimentary breakfast, wine-and cheese receptions, yoga and tai-chi classes, and arrangements for guided tours in the Big Sur region. The 3-Star Gorda Springs Resort offers many amenities including two restaurants, an espresso bar, and a general store. A more affordable and interesting hotel is the 3-Star Treebones Resort which offers accommodation in exquisite yurt tents and offers numerous amenities including two restaurants, a pool, a hot tub, complimentary breakfast, and arrangements for yoga classes. If you are looking for another good and affordable hotel near North Jade Cove, the modestly priced 2-Star Lucia Lodge offers many amenities including a restaurant, a deck, a patio, complimentary breakfast, and a seasonal convenience store with a gift shop.