Fall Coastal Hikes Guide

POST's Guide to the Best Coastal Walks

10.01.2025

Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) is ready to fill your fall with bluffside trails, tranquil beaches, whale watching, a haunted distillery, and seasonal sweet treats.

Their complimentary Coastal Hikes Guide gives you 10 of the top walks ideal for autumn on the San Mateo County coast.

Beautifully curated and filled with photographic inspiration and detailed information, this collection of coastal hikes covers all the bases, from trail mileage and difficulty, to parking lot location links.

The guide also includes a “Local Favorites” bonus so you get trusted info on the best places to grab a coffee or craft beer, along with deli and bakery recommendations, even a tip for an overnight stay.

Find out which less-known beach is reached via Mel’s Lane and also offers a postcard vista of Pigeon Point Lighthouse.

Go on a short hike that packs in wildlife sightings like raptors, harbor seals, and whales, with an optional detour to a crescent beach.

Discover a state beach that lets leashed dogs join you on a stretch of the brilliant California Coastal Trail.

And right in time for Halloween, get into the “spirit” with a detour to a haunted distillery.

Do one hike or do all 10: Head to the coast with POST!

Since 1977, POST and their partners have been dedicated to safeguarding open spaces on the Peninsula and in the South Bay. To date, they’ve protected over 93,000 acres of landscape from developments so that natural spaces remain open for you to enjoy. Now that’s a breath of fresh (salt-tinged) air!

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