11 Important Facts About Pfeiffer Beach

Thinking about visiting Pfeiffer Beach? Read up on some important facts before going. Especially number 6!

There is no doubt that you should not miss a visit to Pfeiffer Beach if you ever drive along the Pacific Coast Highway 1. While Pfeiffer Beach is a little difficult to get to and not the most convenient place to spend the day due to the no swimming rule and high winds,  it’s still worth a stop to take pictures. Lots and lots of pictures! If you can arrive in time to catch the sunset, even better!

Before you go, here are 11 important facts that you should know about Pfeiffer Beach:

1. Hours: 9am to 8pm
2. Fees: $10/day
3. Directions: Drive along Highway 1 then turn Right on Sycamore Canyon Rd.
4. You won’t see any signs from Highway 1 so prior to going make sure to have directions either written down, on your phone, on your navigation system or have a map available. It’s very easy to miss. Look for a sign that says “Narrow Road To the Right” if you’re coming from the North.
5. Parking is small and I mean small so depending on the time of day you go, you may not find a parking spot. Plan to arrive early or later in the afternoon to increase your chances. Be prepared to either wait for someone to leave or park on the road on Highway 1.
6. If you decide to walk from Highway 1 to the beach, be prepared for a long walk (2 miles to the beach) and a long walk back. There is no designated walking path so you would be walking on the same road that cars drive through. This may not the best (or safest) option if traveling with small kids.
7. There are no lifeguards on duty and the ocean is rough so swimming is restricted here.
8. It’s very VERY windy so bring a jacket or a windbreaker.
9. The road leading to the beach is rough and curvy. It’s one-lane so those exiting the beach have the right of way and those coming in MUST yield.
10. This is not the best beach to have a picnic because of the wind. We brought food that we ended up eating in the car in fear that it would get blown away.
11. There are restrooms available near the parking lot area. (I use the term “restroom” loosely)