A beloved slice of the San Mateo County coast is about to enter a brand-new era. On July 29, the privately owned San Gregorio Ranch will officially open to the public as a massive extension of San Gregorio State Beach. But when the gates open, visitors will have to adapt to a major change.
The End of a Clothing-Optional Era
For decades, San Gregorio Ranch operated informally as one of the region’s most famous clothing-optional beach destinations. That ends on July 29th.
Because the land is transitioning to public management, California State Parks will enforce its standard regulations across the property. Per State Park rules designed to provide safe and inclusive recreation opportunities for all visitors and will not permit clothing-optional recreation.
A Massive 50% Expansion for San Gregorio State Beach
The opening marks the first phase of a planned transfer of the property from the Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) to California State Parks.
Originally purchased by POST in April 2025 for $10 million, the acquisition will expand San Gregorio State Beach by more than 50%. It represents one of the largest additions to a California state park in recent years, streamlined by Senate Bill 630 to fast-track the donation process.
What to Expect on July 29: Upgrades & Amenities
The ranch has been closed since April 1 for extensive safety and infrastructure upgrades. When you visit, you’ll find several new improvements:
- New Trails: A freshly cut trail connects the ranch to the existing San Gregorio State Beach, alongside an upgraded beach access trail.
- Upgraded Parking & Facilities: A modernized parking area, a new visitor kiosk, and chemical toilets are now on-site.
- Hours: The park will be open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset (matching the adjacent state beach).
- Operations: Day-to-day visitor services and parking fee collection will be managed by the nonprofit Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks.
Protecting Wild Space and Expanding the Coastal Trail
Beyond beach access, the transition protects a critical coastal ecosystem. The property home to one of the area’s largest stands of native American dune grass, which plays a vital role in preventing beach erosion and protecting local wildlife.
State officials also have their eyes on the future. The acquisition paves the way to build a new segment of the California Coastal Trail through the ranch, offering hikers and cyclists a safe scenic path that bypasses a notoriously dangerous stretch of Highway 1.
