Hours<\/td> 8 AM to sunset<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\nPicnic on top of the bluffs? Why not! The scenic views at the San Gregorio State Beach cliffs make a postcard-worthy shot. Your eyes can savor the view of the sky, the open waters contrasting with the cliffs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Head down to the beach, go swimming, or get evenly baked. You’ll also spot the San Gregorio Creek flowing to the ocean. Pomponio State Beach is at its southern end, while caves with ancient fossils are on the north. Now, a warning, if you carry on north, you will reach a loathing-optional beach known as San Gregorio Private Beach. Unless you’re ok with that, don’t go past the caves. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Overall, San Gregorio State Beach is a tucked-away gem. An excellent spot for a laid-back day at one of the best beaches in San Jose. And with that, you must pack up everything you need during your visit since there are no concessions or establishments in the area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marina State Beach<\/h3>\n\n\n\nName<\/strong><\/td>Marina State Beach<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>Location<\/td> 1 Reservation Rd, Marina, CA<\/td><\/tr> Distance from San Jose<\/td> 62.1 miles\/99.9 km, 1 hr., and 1 min. <\/td><\/tr> Facilities<\/td> Restrooms, Showers, Picnic Tables, Dunes, Interpretive Trail<\/td><\/tr> Parking<\/td> Yes, Free on-site<\/td><\/tr> Lifeguard<\/td> No<\/td><\/tr> Hours<\/td> 8 AM to half an hour before sunset<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\nMassive dunes and roaring waves will welcome you at Marina State Beach, just an hour from San Jose. If you want everything for free, add this spot to your itinerary. No parking fee. No entrance fee. One of the most unique beaches in San Jose, what separates Marina State Beach from the rest is its dunes that serve as a take-off point for hang gliders who want to take advantage of the strong winds. If you’ve never tried it before, here’s your chance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
There’s also the accessible 2.3-mile out-and-back Dune Nature Trail. Although the trail is not technical, you need some mindful footing since it will be sandy throughout the journey. You might also spot surfers conquering the swells. Taking the surroundings from the shores is just as good if you’re not confident with your swimming skills. Many visitors even stay in their cars while enjoying food and the beautiful sunset. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Monterey Municipal Beach<\/h3>\n\n\n\nName<\/strong><\/td>Monterey Municipal Beach<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>Location<\/td> 201 Municipal Wharf 2, Monterey, CA<\/td><\/tr> Distance from San Jose<\/td> 72.7 miles\/117 km, 1 hr. and 13 mins. <\/td><\/tr> Facilities<\/td> Kayak Rentals, Volleyball Courts, Restrooms, Fishing Pier, Paved Bike Path<\/td><\/tr> Parking<\/td> Yes, Metered Parking on-site, Free for 2 hours along residential streets<\/td><\/tr> Lifeguard<\/td> No<\/td><\/tr> Hours<\/td> 6 AM to 10 PM<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\nOne of the busiest beaches in San Jose that made it to our list, Monterey Municipal Beach is accessible to everyone and equipped with everything you need for an entire day of stay- restrooms, shops, restaurants, and kayak rentals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The waters here are friendly, so even kids can wade through the waters safely. And if you’re an angler, you’ll love spending time at the pier with your line out. It’s also an excellent spot to spot whales. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Monterey Municipal Beach also has a grassy area where you can unroll a mat for a picnic or smash some spikes at the volleyball court. The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreational Trail and its paved path are at your disposal whether you want to go running or biking. Don’t forget to grab some souvenirs by the shops at the pier! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scott Creek Beach<\/h3>\n\n\n\nName<\/strong><\/td>Scott Creek Beach<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>Location<\/td> Cabrillo Hwy, Davenport, CA<\/td><\/tr> Distance from San Jose<\/td> 45.3 miles\/73 km, 56 mins.<\/td><\/tr> Facilities<\/td> None<\/td><\/tr> Parking<\/td> Yes, Free along the shoulder of Hwy 1<\/td><\/tr> Lifeguard<\/td> No<\/td><\/tr> Hours<\/td> Sunrise to sunset<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\nScott Creek Beach is the definition of raw beauty. No facilities at all! It’s just you, the dunes, and the waters. Rarely crowded, you can enjoy some me-time as long as you want. The waves here are savage, so swimming isn’t the most fun. But for surfers, it’s a total treat. Kitesurfing is also popular at Scott Creek Beach, and if you’re around on a low tide, you can play at the tide pools on the north end of the shore. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Since there\u2019s literally nothing here other than the beach itself, you need to bring everything. Plus, if you need to go number two, you\u2019re in trouble. Parking is also challenging since you need to maneuver along Hwy 1 with vehicles going at least 60 mph. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
But all in all, for a soft sanded beach straight out of painting, the serenity at Scott Creek makes it one of the best beaches in San Jose. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Four Mile Beach<\/h3>\n\n\n\nName<\/strong><\/td>Four Mile Beach<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>Location<\/td> Cabrillo Hwy, Davenport, CA<\/td><\/tr> Distance from San Jose<\/td> 38 miles\/61.2 km, 44 mins.<\/td><\/tr> Facilities<\/td> Restrooms, Trails<\/td><\/tr> Parking<\/td> Yes, Free on-site<\/td><\/tr> Lifeguard<\/td> Yes<\/td><\/tr> Hours<\/td> Sunrise to sunset<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\nA secluded spot where you can enjoy the beauty of the beach without all the noise, the hidden shores of Four Mile Beach are a surfers’ paradise. But when the days are calm, anyone who visits loves its powdered sand and warm waters. You can also spot marine wildlife like seals and whales. If you head north to the boulders, you’ll find plenty of critters hiding. There’s also a lookout where you can get amazing views. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another treat you can take is hiking up the trail on the bluffs until you reach a couple of more tucked-away beaches in San Jose, Strawberry Beach, and Three Mile Beach. Now, these are clothing-optional ones, so if you’re conservative, they might not be for you. But you’ll love these alternatives if you want to experience this version of freedom. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bean Hollow State Beach<\/h3>\n\n\n\nName<\/strong><\/td>Bean Hollow State Beach<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>Location<\/td> CA-1 & Bean Hollow Rd, Pescadero, CA<\/td><\/tr> Distance from San Jose<\/td> 58.2 miles\/93.7km, 1 hr. and 6 mins.<\/td><\/tr> Facilities<\/td> Nature Trail, Interpretive Signs, Picnic Tables, BBQs, Restrooms<\/td><\/tr> Parking<\/td> Yes, Free on-site<\/td><\/tr> Lifeguard<\/td> No<\/td><\/tr> Hours<\/td> 8 AM to sunset<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThis gem is a combination of two coves separated by a rock formation. Roughly an hour away from San Jose, Bean Hollow State Beach is home to the fascinating honeycomb-like rock formations known as tafoni rocks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Beachcombing and sunbathing are the main activities here, along with tracing the 2-mile nature trail connecting the beach to its neighbor Pebble Beach. You can get plenty of souvenirs here too. Beautiful stones, such as jade, moonstone, and agates, packed the shores. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fishing is also allowed, but you need a license. Swimming is not for the faint-hearted. The riptides are brutal (of course, if you’re a surfer, this is an excellent opportunity!). Plus, there’s no lifeguard on duty here. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Picnic tables are also accessible for public use, so don’t forget to pack lunch or snacks. Make it more scenic and be there during a sunset. There are also information boards that show the history of the area and its ecosystem. Traveling with kids? Time your visit during low tide. They will surely enjoy the marine creatures at the tide pools. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shark Fin Cove<\/h3>\n\n\n\nName<\/strong><\/td>Shark Fin Cove<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>Location<\/td> Cabrillo Hwy Davenport, CA<\/td><\/tr> Distance from San Jose<\/td> 41.9 miles\/67.4 km, 52 mins.<\/td><\/tr> Facilities<\/td> None<\/td><\/tr> Parking<\/td> Yes, Free parking on the shoulder along Highway 1<\/td><\/tr> Lifeguard<\/td> No<\/td><\/tr> Hours<\/td> Sunrise to sunset<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\nAs the name suggests, Shark Fin Cove is famous for its shark fin rock formation sitting near the shores. It’s one of the most crowd-free beaches in San Jose, where you can enjoy nature’s beauty without distractions. Maybe because there are no amenities\/facilities in this spot, so it’s never crowded. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
But that only added to the rawness of the view at Shark Fin Cove. After checking out the rock formation from the overlook (just right next to the highway), you can carefully traverse the steep trail down to the beach. Wear grippy shoes since there’s nothing to assist you on the way down. From there, you will find a sea cave on its right side, while sand packs up on the other. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shark Fin Cove may not be as famous as other beaches in San Jose, but its geological wonders are worth the effort. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Panther Beach<\/h3>\n\n\n\nName<\/strong><\/td>Panther Beach<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>Location<\/td> Santa Cruz, CA<\/td><\/tr> Distance from San Jose<\/td> 42.2 miles\/67.9 km, 53 mins<\/td><\/tr> Facilities<\/td> None<\/td><\/tr> Parking<\/td> Yes, Free on-site<\/td><\/tr> Lifeguard<\/td> No<\/td><\/tr> Hours<\/td> 24 Hours<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\nFor anyone who is looking for clothing-optional beaches in San Jose, you need to stop by Panther Beach. Officially known as Yellowbank Beach, the bluffs and the rock formations are the main highlights. There’s a passage on one of them called Hole-in-the-Wall, and it’s literally that, a hole that will lead you to another beach (clothing-optional, too, and more discreet). But it’s only accessible during low tides. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Now, this gorgeous natural treasure can be challenging to access with the steep trail. There are also no facilities around, even restrooms. The riptides are scary, so swimming is not recommended. You need proper planning if you want to stay here for extended hours. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The overall appeal of Panther Beach is not limited to the waters. Its natural allure is captured in its bluffs, rock formations, and simplicity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Waddell Beach<\/h3>\n\n\n\nName<\/strong><\/td>Waddell Beach<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>Location<\/td> 3600 Hwy 1, Davenport, CA<\/td><\/tr> Distance from San Jose<\/td> 51.7 miles\/83.2 km, 1hr 2 mins<\/td><\/tr> Facilities<\/td> Trails, Nature Trail, Campground, Restrooms<\/td><\/tr> Parking<\/td> Yes, Free on-site and along the highway<\/td><\/tr> Lifeguard<\/td> Yes<\/td><\/tr> Hours<\/td> 8 AM to sunset<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe 1.5-mile-long Waddell Beach is part of the iconic Big Basin Redwoods State Park and a cradle to all sorts of surfers- kite, wind, and the classic surfboarders. If you’re into water sports, the winds and waves here are some of the best you’ll find on other beaches in San Jose. Although if you’re with kids, this might not be the best option. But that doesn’t mean you and your family can’t enjoy the view and the surfers showing off their skills. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The dunes make long beach walks more pleasurable, and if you can’t go back home without bringing souvenirs, the sand dollars here are some of the most authentic you’ll find. And if you need more than the beach, you can cross the highway and head to Big Basin Redwoods ST for numerous trails and camping opportunities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Redondo Beach on Half Moon Bay<\/h3>\n\n\n\nName<\/strong><\/td>Redondo Beach on Half Moon Bay<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>Location<\/td> Redondo Beach Rd and Thorne Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA<\/td><\/tr> Distance from San Jose<\/td> 42.9 miles\/69 km, 49 mins. <\/td><\/tr> Facilities<\/td> None<\/td><\/tr> Parking<\/td> Yes, At the end of Redondo Beach Road off Highway 1 <\/td><\/tr> Lifeguard<\/td> No<\/td><\/tr> Hours<\/td> 8 AM to sunset<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\nWith a distinct touch of eroded bluffs, the shores of Redondo Beach in Half Moon Bay offer a secluded getaway from the business of other famous beaches in San Jose. There are no facilities here. It’s just you and nature, an ideal spot for meditation and afternoon walks (sunsets here are stunning!). There’s also the Wavecrest Trail people usually use for biking, running, and horseback riding. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The trail to the beach is steep and muddy, so wear shoes with excellent traction. There are also no restrooms or lifeguards to keep an eye on swimmers, so be mindful of your surroundings. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As we wave goodbyes to the beaches in San Jose, we hope this exploration has ignited a newfound appreciation for the coastal wonders that grace this remarkable city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From the rhythmic crashing of waves to the soothing touch of warm sand between your toes, these beaches offer a sanctuary where time slows down, and worries are washed away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Whether you seek thrilling water sports, tranquil sunsets, or simply a moment of respite amidst nature’s beauty, San Jose’s beaches deliver an unforgettable experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, until we meet again on these mesmerizing stretches of coastline, may the salty breeze guide you, the vibrant sun energize you, and the timeless beauty of beaches in San Jose forever inspire your wanderlust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
FAQs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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What is the closest beach to San Jose?<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n
You can reach these beaches in San Jose in under 45 minutes:<\/p>\n
– Capitola Beach- 35.7 mile\/57.5 km., 42 mins.\u00a0