Community says a fond farewell to pier at Seacliff State Beach, cleans up the beach

Following recent historic storms that severely impacted communities across California, State Parks has determined the pier at Seacliff State Beach will be removed due to extensive storm damage. In response, hundreds of community members turned out on Saturday, Feb. 18, to support Seacliff with a beach clean-up, take photos with the pier and share their memories of this beloved beach. 

Many visitors reflected on fond memories of barbecuing with friends and family at the picnic areas, fishing off the pier and even walking down onto the boat. Others reminisced about summer evenings admiring the sunset from their RVs parked along the beach. Watch this video to listen to some #SeacliffMemories.

The beach clean-up, supported by Save Our Shores, brought approximately 815 pounds of debris off the beach. Among 367 volunteers from all over the Bay Area were Congressmember Jimmy Panetta, three Rotary clubs, dozens of high school students and lots of neighbors. Thank you! 

The pier, seawall and campground were badly damaged during the storms in early January. State Parks is working with a contractor to eliminate or mitigate public safety issues, including demolishing the pier. The exact date of the demolition has not been announced. Also, due to the loss of facilities and infrastructure, the campground area will be closed through the end of 2023.

The beach reflects a new reality of the impacts of climate change on the state's shoreline. Sea-level rise and extreme weather will call for climate-resilient facilities and infrastructure as State Parks develops plans to restore services and amenities for visitors. Following the imminent cleanup and safety work, a public process will be established for the recovery effort at Seacliff State Beach. 

Friends, through its unique position as co-management partners with California State Parks, has established the Seacliff State Beach Recovery Fund. The fund has raised nearly $50K and will provide short-term support, followed by investments in long-term recovery work to ensure public access and environmental protection at Seacliff State Beach.

Last chance for Guided Elephant Seal Tours this season! Register now
 

There's still time to make plans to visit Año Nuevo State Park for a fantastic glimpse into the world of the northern elephant seal on a docent-led guided walk!

Elephant Seal Tours are offered through March 31. If you’ve never been before, or if you like to visit every year, now’s the time to reserve your spot to see elephant seals during their breeding season in their natural habitat.

Led by volunteer docent naturalists, the moderate 3-mile, 2.5-hour hike travels over sand dunes to visit a large colony of northern elephant seals. In the month of December, male elephant seals arrive and establish hierarchy, while pregnant females come ashore to birth to their pups.

People with accessibility needs may reserve an equal access tour along the boardwalk. Contact the park at 650-879-2025 or email to reserve an equal access tour. Same-day elephant seal tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Show up before 10 a.m. on weekends and holidays for a walk-up ticket; come by noon on weekdays. For visitors without a reservation, tickets are $7 per person. Vehicle day-use fee is $10 and supports the park.