Pirate's Cove Trail at Muir Beach

Review

Intro

Find adventure on this Goonies-esque coastal trail from Muir Beach to Pirates Cove. Legend has it in the 1920s bootleggers used the private beach as a staging area. The hike from Muir is steep, yet beautiful with sweeping views of the Pacific,  all while meandering through coastal chaparral. 

What Makes It Great

This is as close to the Pacific as you'll get. The trail hugs the shore line as it roller coasters its way up and down the valley, eventually descending  to the cove. Being surrounded by such vastness brings solitude and peace.  Pirate's Cove sits between Tennessee Valley and Muir Beach, it's a 2.7-mile trek, and on a clear day you can see for miles.

Once at the beach, (check the tides before you leave, at high tide there is little to no beach) there is plenty to explore in caves, under boulders, in between crags, as waves break against the rocks and salty mist sprays all around. It's unlike any beach in the Bay Area-- private, mysterious and beautiful.

Who is Going to Love It

Looking for an escape from the city without going far from the city? Pirate's Cove is close enough for city dwellers yet isolated from civilization. There are no homes, stores or people around for miles. Anyone seeking solace and peace will love this hike.  

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

From Highway One turn left at the Pelican Inn, follow the road until it dead ends to the Muir Beach parking lot. Park your car and look for trail signs to Pirate's Cove. Bring lots of water as there is no place to refill a water bottle. Dogs are allowed on leash, and for part of the trail, horses are allowed, too!