Coastal Conquistador

Feel like an old Spanish explorer on Año Nuevo's Atkinson Bluff Trail. This 5.5-mile (round-trip) hike will have you wandering nearly empty beaches, scuttling around (or over) boulders, and navigating your way along the San Mateo coast as the salty sea breeze kisses your cheeks. Starting at Gazos Creek parking lot, trek south for about 20 minutes, following scattered driftwood as the wind pushes you along. At the end of the beach you'll come to a head-scratching crossroads: go over the sandstone rocks? Yep, a little scrambling is required to get to the next beach (mind your footing!). In another 15 minutes reach Franklin Point, a fantastic lookout with views of the coast that continue all the way to Pigeon Point Lighthouse. From here, plot your next course on the coastal dune jamboree of undulating, ice plant-strewn bluffs that lead to Whitehouse Creek Beach, the last destination on this expedition. Soak in the sun (or fog) and return the way you came. ¡Viva Año Nuevo!

This out-and-back hike starts at Gazos Creek parking lot which is about 2 miles south of Pigeon Point Lighthouse on Hwy 1. The first 1.2 miles is along the beach. Find the Atkinson Bluff Trail at Franklin Point. Follow the signs to Whitehouse Creek Beach. No dogs.