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PrintDiscover the Slow Life in Charming Pescadero
Located just off Highway 1, the picturesque seaside town of Pescadero, Spanish for “the fishing place,” offers visitors a charming small-town feel. Centrally located between Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz, it is just a short drive to this tiny town of abundant offerings. With its quaint farms, rich history, and close proximity to beaches and state parks with tall Redwood trees, Pescadero is the perfect escape from bustling city life.
Pescadero trees
Photograph by Elizabeth Kang
Duarte’s Tavern
During the weekend, tourists and locals all flock to Duarte’s Tavern. Chances are good they are there for the famed cream of artichoke soup. This popular soup, made from locally grown artichokes, is a staple on the menu, along with fresh fish and the not-to-be-missed olallieberry pie. Food Network’s Diners, Drive-ins and Dives recently filmed an episode at Duarte’s, reinforcing the local love and transforming the casual haunt into a destination spot. duartestavern.com / 650.879.0464
Costanoa
Want to “rough it” without all the rough stuff? Costanoa, an “eco-adventure resort,” boasts beautiful, sprawling grounds near the ocean, flush toilets, heated mattress pads, saunas, a hot tub and even a spa. Guests can choose to stay at the lodge, a cabin, or a tent bungalow, or to pitch their own tent on a wooden platform. Outdoor activities that are available and accessible include hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, and mountain biking. Although there is a restaurant on the property, those on a budget can bring their own food to cook on the provided BBQs. $40-$350. costanoa.com / 877.262.7848
Pigeon Point Lighthouse
Although Pigeon Point Lighthouse is now closed to tours, due to safety issues, it remains a historic and beautiful landmark. At 115 ft., it is the second tallest lighthouse on the West Coast. norcalhostels.org / 650.879.0633
Año Nuevo State Natural Reserve
Año Nuevo is a wildlife protection area that plays host yearly to hundreds of elephant seals that come to breed in the winter and shed their coats in the summer. Many hikers make the 40 minute trek to Bright Beach and North Point daily for the rare treat of a close encounter with the seals in their natural habitat. parks.ca.gov / 650.879.0227
Harley Farms Goat Dairy
At Harley Farms, it doesn’t get any fresher than samples of goat cheese made right on the premises. Tours are available. harleyfarms.com / 650.879.0480
Phipps Country Store and Farm
A visit to nearby Phipps Country Store, a unique nursery, pottery barn, barnyard zoo, and picnic area, can turn into a half-day excursion. The star attractions are the pick-your-own berries, particularly the olallieberries, similar to blackberries but a bit sweeter. phippscountry.com / 650.879.0787
Do you love a leisurely drive along the Northern California Coast? Then explore these laid-back beach destinations: Davenport, Moss Beach, Capitola, Moss Landing.
Also read: Harley Farms
