San Gregorio State Beach facts for kids
Quick facts for kids San Gregorio State Beach |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Location | San Mateo County, California |
| Nearest city | San Gregorio |
| Governing body | California Department of Parks and Recreation |
San Gregorio State Beach is a beautiful beach located near the town of San Gregorio, California, in San Mateo County, California. It's south of Half Moon Bay. This beach is part of the California State Park System. You can find it just west of where California State Route 1 and State Route 84 meet. It's a great spot for a day out by the ocean!
Contents
Exploring San Gregorio's Nature
The Creek and Lagoon
At San Gregorio State Beach, San Gregorio Creek flows into the ocean. Before it reaches the Pacific Ocean, the creek gets wider. It forms a small freshwater area called a lagoon. This lagoon is often separated from the ocean by a natural sand wall. This sand wall is also known as a barrier beach.
How Water Reaches the Ocean
Usually, the sand wall blocks the creek's mouth. This means the creek water has to slowly seep through the sand to reach the ocean. But when it rains a lot, the creek gets full. It can then cut a path right through the sand wall. This allows the water to flow directly into the ocean.
Protecting Local Fish
Historically, this creek was a place where coho salmon would lay their eggs. The California Department of Fish and Game is thinking about bringing coho salmon back to the creek. This would help improve the salmon fishing in the areas south of San Francisco. It's a way to help nature thrive!
Clean Beach Status
San Gregorio State Beach is known for being very clean. It is one of the cleanest beaches in all of California. This makes it a wonderful place to visit and enjoy the natural beauty.
Beach Facilities and Wildlife Protection
What You'll Find at the Beach
When you visit San Gregorio State Beach, you'll find some helpful facilities. There are restrooms available for visitors. You can also use the picnic tables. These are perfect for enjoying a meal or snack by the beach.
Protecting the Western Snowy Plover
It's important to know that dogs are not allowed on the beach. This rule helps protect a special bird called the western snowy plover. These small birds are not found in large numbers. They sometimes nest on the beach. Keeping dogs away helps them stay safe and lay their eggs without being disturbed.
Fees and Entry
San Gregorio State Beach is a self-registered fee area. This means you usually pay a small fee to enter. During the summer months, there is often a kiosk with staff. They can help you with the fee and answer any questions you have.
A Glimpse into History
Portolà's Expedition
San Gregorio State Beach has an interesting history. A stone marker used to stand here. It had a plaque that told a story from 1769. This was when a Spanish explorer named Gaspar de Portolà and his team camped at the beach. They stayed for three days to rest and help their sick members.
Discovering San Francisco Bay
Portolà's group was trying to reach Monterey Bay at the time, but they didn't succeed. Instead, they went on to discover San Francisco Bay. The beach marks a significant stop on their journey.
California Historical Landmark
Because of its historical importance, San Gregorio State Beach is recognized as California Historical Landmark 26. This means it's a special place that helps us remember important events from the past.
Gallery
-
View of San Gregorio State Beach
