Shark Fin Cove Loop

The Shark Fin Cove Loop boasts an unrivaled experience. Located south of San Francisco, this route attracts plenty of weekend traffic—mostly composed of city-goers seeking an urban escape. Those seeking a more secluded experience are encouraged to head out on early weekday mornings to beat the crowds. Note sections of this hike are steep—so exercise careful footing and take your time. Additionally, when exploring the Shark Fin Cove, it is important to be mindful of the tides and crashing surf—only venture into the sea cave at low tide. Additionally, this hike is often windy and shrouded in fog—so dress in layers as insurance against changing conditions.

It is no surprise that this area is often abundant with photographers and sightseers—the Shark Fin Cove Loop exhibits other-worldly views of the dramatic coastal headlands, the surging surf, and the shark tooth-shaped rock. Head out in the evening to enjoy the scene of the golden sun setting over the Pacific, lighting the side of Shark Tooth Rock in a postcard perfect manner. Intrepid explorers can even scale down the coastal cliffs to Shark Fin Cove—an eroded sea cave along the pristine shoreline. This wonderful trail is unlike no other, and we cannot recommend it enough—just don’t forget to charge your camera.

Embark on your adventure along the Shark Fin Cove Loop from the trailhead off State Route 1. Setting out from here, take the Bonny Doon Access Tail down the vertiginous terrain to the sandy beach. Mind your footing on the sheer bluff, and you will soon intersect with Liddell Creek. Travel north along the sandy beach, merging onto the northernmost access trail back up to the top of the headlands. When you reach this intersection, follow the leftmost trail, hugging the edge of the cliffs. Enjoy the inspiring views of the Pacific and the dramatic coastline that stretches along the surf. Following this route, you will ultimately reach the access trail down to Shark Tooth Beach—take this route down the cape to the beach.

Admire the beauty of Shark Tooth that adorns the Pacific, and if the tide is low, explore Shark Fin Cove. Explore at your leisure and take plenty of photos before climbing northwest back up to the top of the headlands. This lovely path will guide you back along the edge of the coastal cliffs through the cultivated farmlands. Appreciate the scene of the lush vegetation adorned with seasonal wildflowers, and at the following two junctions, turn right. Now meandering southeast away from the coast through the verdant meadowlands and alongside the railroad, you will ultimately be delivered back to the trailhead, marking the end of your epic excursion.

Trail Highlights

Shark Fin Rock

Shark Fin Cave is located in the Coast Dairies State Park, south of San Francisco down State Route 1. The beach is named not for an abundance of sharks, but instead for the shark tooth-shaped rock formation that protrudes from the Pacific. It is believed that thousands of years ago this rock was an extension of the headlands, but years of coastal geomorphology eroded the cliffs.

Shark Fin Cove

This wonderful area also boasts another geological wonder—Shark Fin Cove. The amazing sea cave beckons exploration from visiting adventurers. When exploring, it is important to be mindful of the tides and crashing surf—avoid this area when the water is high to avoid getting caught in the eroded cove. Head out at sunset and enjoy the scene of the sea cave framing the impressive outcrop in the waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there sharks at Shark Fin Cove?

Contrary to popular belief, sharks are not a danger at Shark Fin Cove—instead, it’s the crashing surf when exploring the sea cave!

Where is Shark Fin Cove?

Shark Fin Cove is located off State Route 1 south of San Francisco.

Are dogs permitted In Shark Fin Cove?

Dogs are permitted on the trails along Shark Fin Cove, but they are not allowed on the beach.