The sandstone from this park was used to pave the streets of San Francisco and construct the state capitol building.
Tafoni weathering creates deep, cavernous pits in the coastal sandstone due to salt spray crystallization.
The park contains a submarine canyon that extends close to the shore at Gerstle Cove.
Salt Point was named for the salt deposits found in the rock tide pools, which were historically harvested by Indigenous peoples.
The Gerstle Cove State Marine Reserve prohibits all fishing and collecting to protect local marine biodiversity.
Salt Point State Park is a rugged coastal landscape defined by sandstone formations and tide pools. It contains one of the first underwater parks in California, the Gerstle Cove State Marine Reserve. The park features over 6,000 acres of redwood forests, meadows, and rocky shoreline. Geologically, it is known for Tafoni, a honeycomb-like weathering pattern found on the sandstone boulders along the coast. The park provides extensive trails for hiking, including sections of the California Coastal Trail. It offers two distinct campgrounds: Woodside for forested canopy and Gerstle Cove for ocean views. The area was formerly a quarry site that supplied sandstone for buildings in San Francisco during the late 19th century. Marine mammals such as harbor seals and sea lions are frequently visible from the shoreline cliffs.
The honeycomb-patterned sandstone boulders along the trail descending toward Gerstle Cove.
Wear sturdy, rubber-soled footwear with grip to navigate the slippery, uneven sandstone surfaces near the water.
Check tide charts before visiting to ensure you can safely access the best tide pooling areas during low tide.
Layer your clothing, as the coastal fog and winds can cause rapid temperature drops even in mid-summer.
Do not attempt to climb or walk on the fragile Tafoni sandstone cliffs, as they are prone to crumbling.
Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion, and never remove shells, rocks, or marine life from the protected reserve.
