Costanoa lies at the center of one of the most ruggedly beautiful and spacious stretches of California’s coast. Here you’ll find no boundary between nature and the Costanoa base camp.
Nearby you’ll find a rich diversity of beautiful towns, parks and natural attractions to experience.
3.5 miles north on Highway 1
Built in the days of wooden ships to warn mariners of the dangers of the coast, Pigeon Point has become a popular stop for travelers enjoying the beautiful California coast. Established 134 years ago, the historic light station is 115 feet tall, the tallest on the California Coast. A self-guided tour of the grounds is available daily from 8am to sunset; the lighthouse is closed to the public.
9 miles north on Hwy 1
Parking lots on the east side of the highway.
The beach has a mile-long shoreline with sandy coves, rocky cliffs, tide pools, fishing spots and picnic facilities. Across the highway is Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve, a popular spot for bird watchers and other naturalists. The Reserve is a refuge for blue heron, deer, raccoons, foxes and skunks.
7 miles from Costanoa
Take Hwy 1 north 1.5 miles, right on Gazos Creek Road (at the gas station). Stay left at the first fork, follow signs to Butano State Park. According to Native American lore, butano means “a gathering place for friendly visits.” The Park is located in a secluded redwood-filled canyon with miles of hiking trails. Guided nature walks and campfire programs held during the summer.
9 miles north on Hwy 1
Right on Pescadero Road, follow 2.5 miles inland to town.
A famous shop, Arcangeli Grocery and Bakery, located in the quaint town since 1929, ships breads and gourmet foods around the globe. Cheddar Artichoke, Garlic Herb and Roasted Garlic Artichoke breads are a few of the seasonal favorites that are baked and sold along with wines and other food items grown and made locally.
Another establishment considered a fixture in Pescadero (since 1894) is Duarte’s Tavern, a restaurant serving fresh baked pies, soups made from scratch such as Cream of Artichoke and Green Chile soup and entrees that include fish, pork chops, lamb, beef. There’s also a full breakfast menu.
Harley Farms Goat Dairy 205 North Street, Pescadero
Dee Harley rebuilt a 1910 cow dairy farm that now houses the cheese making room and milking parlor – and scattered across her 9 acre farm roam 220 American Alpine goats who produce over 500 kids each Spring (definitely the time to visit!). You can just stop by, any day between 11am to 5pm and visit their Cheese Shop where you can taste and purchase Harley Farms fresh goat cheese and curios.
The San Mateo County/Silicon Valley CVB is a full-service Bureau. They offer assistance with convention site selection, official area visitor guides and maps, site inspection arrangements, local supplier contact information, suggestions on things to do and see in the area, and photographs.
2.5 miles south on the left
Pie Ranch cultivates a healthy and just food system from seed to table through food education, farmer training, and regional partnerships. Their farmstand, south of Costanoa on Highway 1, is where they offer sustainable and locally grown produce, preserves, local goods, and pie. All the profits from their Farmstand go directly into supporting the non-profit educational farm’s programs with a focus on food justice.
3.5 miles south on the right
The Spanish maritime explorer Sebastian Vizcaino sailed here in January 1603. His diarist named it Punta de Año Nuevo (New Year’s Point) for the day on which they sighted it. Elephant seals, sea lions, and other marine mammals come ashore to rest, mate, and give birth. Reservations are required December through March. April-November get your permit at the entrance by 3pm and take a self-guided tour. Parking fee is $7. Open 8am-Sunset.
4 miles south on the left
U-Pick, Organically Certified, berries and kiwis. Strawberry fields are open now through November 10am-6pm. June 20th opens for Olallieberries- a cross between Blackberry, Loganberry and Youngberry. A Blackberry u-pick starts in July. Berries are $2.50 per pound. Kiwis are usually ready in November and December.
5 miles south
This is the westernmost end of Big Basin State Park, and the closest access from Costanoa. Hike or bike the Skyline-to-the-Sea trail 6 miles inland to Berry Creek Falls, or just take a leisurely stroll around the nature preserve. Waddell is a family friendly-beach, but NOT protected from prevailing northwest winds.
12 miles south on the left
Stop by the Swanton Berry Farm stand for yummy Organic treats including cobbler, truffles, jams, pies and more! Open 8am-8pm throughout the summer. U-Pick strawberries are now open at the Coastways Ranch location.
13 miles south on Hwy 1
Whale City Bakery & Café offers a giant selection of delicious muffins, pastries, breads etc as well as sandwiches and a sit-down menu. Open breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Stop at Arro’s Country Store for basic supplies.
Discover the treats in store for you at the Davenport Roadhouse at the Cash Store: a quintessential coastal experience of delicious foods prepared using fresh, local ingredients, full bar and outstanding wines. “Delicious and affordable California coastal cuisine made with fresh, local and organic ingredients is the hallmark of our kitchen.” They host live, local music Tuesday and Saturday nights 6pm-9pm.
Lundberg Art Glass Studios began in the backyard hot shop of the late founder, James Lundberg, in 1970. Master craftsmen individually create an exquisite array of vases, scent bottles, paperweights, lighting and custom commissions. Their Showroom is open 11am-4pm daily. 131 Old Coast Road, Davenport.
Davenport Landing is just north of town on the East side of the Highway. The original townsite of Davenport, this beach is in a protected cove and features wheelchair accessibility. Plan a picnic at the beach to watch Grey Whales migrating from late fall (headed south) to early spring (heading north with calves).
Fambrini’s Farm Stand is 3 miles south of Davenport on the left. This farm grows all organic foods and offers an on-site market to purchase a variety of produce. Strawberries are featured in three varieties and according to John Fambrini, are the most popular item. Pumpkins are aplenty in the Fall too!!