Asilomar State Beach and Conference Grounds State Park is perched on the rugged Monterey Peninsula in Pacific Grove. It offers an inspiring blend of historic architecture. You can also explore its dune ecosystems and coastal adventures. This unique retreat—meaning “refuge by the sea”—combines pristine sands, forested walkways, and Arts & Crafts–style lodging designed by Julia Morgan, making it a must‑visit destination for families, photographers, surfers, and eco‑travelers.
What Makes Asilomar Unique
Asilomar was established as a California State Park in 1956. It was also designated a National Historic Landmark. It encompasses 107 acres of forest, dunes, and beach. The a‑camp architecture by Julia Morgan, the YWCA origins from 1913, and its location within the Asilomar State Marine Reserve give it historical, ecological, and recreational significance. The dune boardwalk hosts 25 native plant species, while the coastal reserve protects underwater life—including tide pools teeming with marine creatures .
Activities & Amenities
State Park & Beach Access
Asilomar’s one‑mile sandy and rocky shoreline offers easy beach access and tide‑pool exploration. The adjacent Coast Trail runs along the bluff, with multiple wheelchair‑accessible boardwalks and a beach wheelchair available via the conference front desk . Dogs are allowed on leash—please observe park regulations.
Hiking & Biking Trails
The paved Monterey Bay Coastal Trail passes through the park—ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling along scenic ocean views. Onsite paths wind through dunes and pine/oak forest, with interpretive self‑guides available at the Phoebe Hearst Social Hall.
Picnic & Outdoor Recreation
While there are no formal picnic tables on the beach, the grassy conference areas offer lawn spaces and fire‑safe portable cooking. A beach volleyball court on sand is free to use—equipment available at the park store for a small deposit. There are also bike rentals and water‑sport rentals through Aramark.
Conference Center & Lodging
The historic Asilomar Conference Grounds−designed by Julia Morgan and expanded in the 1950s—houses 313 simple yet charming lodge rooms, historic cottages, and ADA‑accessible options with roll‑in showers. Free Wi‑Fi is available in public spaces, though rooms often forego TVs and phones by design. Conference meeting halls, Merrill Hall, and the Chapel feature ADA‑compliant restrooms and audio‑visual setups.
Dining & Gift Shop
Crocker Dining Hall provides hearty meals at set times; Phoebe’s Café offers casual fare and coffee. A small gift shop on site carries local artisan goods and basic beach items .
Restrooms & Showers
Public restrooms with showers are found in Phoebe Hearst Social Hall. Multiple bathroom areas are ADA‑accessible .
Wildlife Viewing & Photography
The dunes, forested walkways, and shoreline host diverse wildlife—shorebirds, gulls, seals on offshore rocks, and forest birds and deer inland . Dramatic sunsets, misty coastal afternoons, and architectural details make it a photographer’s dream.
Surfing, Fishing, Kayaking, Scuba
Surfing and body‑boarding are popular with caution due to cold water and rip currents. Tide‑pooling is excellent at low tide. Fishing and collecting marine life are prohibited within the marine reserve. Kayaking and scuba diving are allowed offshore outside restricted zones.
Family & Sports Amenities
Onsite beach volleyball court, bicycle lanes adjacent to Sunset Drive, and coastal walking trails provide healthy family recreation. No basketball or tennis courts.
Practical Visitor Tips
- Fees: Day‑use parking along Sunset Drive is free; no beach parking meters—but park responsibly in bike lanes .
- Parking: Street parking along Sunset Drive; conference guests park onsite. Accessible spaces adjacent to facilities .
- Pets: Leashed dogs allowed on beach and trails, but prohibited in dunes and sensitive habitats.
- Camping/Bonfires: No beach camping or bonfires; portable stoves are allowed with clean‑up .
- Marine Reserve Rules: No fishing, collecting shells or organisms—protect the marine ecosystem .
- Accessibility: Beach wheelchairs and paved access trails available—book at conference desk .
- Facilities: Bring towels/swim gear; showers are in the social hall. Dining hall food only at meals.
- Safety: Water is cold; be cautious of rip currents. Stay aware of tide times.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
For surreal sunrise photography, aim for early morning low tide when the fog drapes the dunes and ocean. Attend the free ranger-led tours and evening “Sunset Music Series” hosted at Merrill Hall in summer. Combine your visit with a ride on the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail into Cannery Row or a short drive to the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary in October–February for a full seasonal experience.