Pescadero Beach is a beautiful California beach located 14.5 miles south of Half Moon Bay and equal distance between Santa Cruz to the south and San Francisco to the north, approximately 45 miles distance each.

The beach has a mile-long shoreline with sandy coves, rocky cliffs, tide pools, fishing spots and picnic facilities. Across the highway is Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve, a popular spot for bird watchers and other naturalists. The Reserve is a refuge for blue heron, deer, raccoons, foxes and skunks.

Traveling the California coast, this is a perfect spot to stop and take photos. The color of the water is a mixture of greens and blues with subtle contrast to the rocks and sand beaches. Pacifica, Sonoma, San Francisco and Half Moon Bay to the north or south in Carmel, Monterey or Pacific Grove are all fantastic places to stay in hotels but for those who love to camp, there's some fantastic camping in this area of the state.

The town of Pescadero is located approximately two miles inland from the beach. A famous shop, Arcangeli Grocery and Bakery, located in the quaint town since 1929, ships breads and gourmet foods around the globe. Cheddar Artichoke, Garlic Herb and Roasted Garlic Artichoke breads are a few of the seasonal favorites that are baked and sold along with wines and other food items grown and made locally. arcangeligrocery.com

Another establishment considered a fixture in Pescadero (since 1894) is Duarte's Tavern, a restaurant serving fresh baked pies, soups made from scratch such as Cream of Artichoke and Green Chile soup and entrees that include fish, pork chops, lamb, beef. There's also a full breakfast menu.