Tunitas Beach

Although the access to Tunitas Beach isn't easy (through San Gregorio Private Beach to the south or at low tide from Martin's Beach to the north) and it doesn't have any facilities to speak of, it does have a long colorful history. The beach was originally inhabited by the Ohlone Indians. Europeans first appeared in 1769 when the Portola Expedition camped along Tunitas Creek.

A local legend tells of a sea monster that lives in a cave under the high cliffs between Tunitas Beach and Martin's Beach. According to the sightings, the creature resembles the Loch Ness Monster with a long neck enabling it to stick its head up "high as the mast of a fishing boat" followed by a series of black humps. Today such stories may be interpreted as a school of porpoises or sea lions playing in the surf.

Tunitas Beach

In 1872, Alexander Gordon built a 45 degree chute off the 100 ft. cliffs to load farm and forest products onto waiting ships anchored below. Gordon's Chute became a dubious business venture. Sea captains were unhappy about anchoring in the rolling surf dangerously close to the steep cliffs and rocks. The chute itself proved to be problematical. The friction of the long slide burned holes in the produce bags and they burst open upon hitting the deck. A 1885 storm dealt the final blow to the shaky enterprise. Today, all that remains are the chute's eye bolts which can be seen in the rocks at low tide.

No parking or facilities are available. The beach is surrounded by private property with "No Trespassing" signs posted.

Directions:

• The beach is at the mouth of Tunitas Creek.