Wavecrest Open Space is a gem on the San Mateo Coast, offering stunning views, wildlife watching, and coastal recreation, especially known for the Bird Trail, a beloved 1/3-mile stretch of the California Coastal Trail that provides a unique vantage point for viewing migrating whales, raptors, and shorebirds. The Coastside Land Trust is working to make Wavecrest safer, greener, and more accessible for everyone with the Wavecrest Coastal Trail Project.
What’s Coming?
Expanded Trails: 2.7 miles of new, compacted gravel trails connecting Poplar Beach to Redondo Beach, completing a vital section of the California Coastal Trail.
Safe Beach Access Stairs: From the blufftops down to Redondo Beach.
Improved Parking: Gravel parking with restrooms/ drinking water/bike racks/trash
Wildlife Protection: Reducing erosion and restoring habitats
Universal Access: Trails and facilities designed for accessibility year-round, making it safer for families, seniors, and people with mobility challenges.
Summer 2025: Planned construction start
Why It Matters?
Preserving Wildlife: Wavecrest is the most important site on the San Mateo Coast for wintering raptors, as well as a rich diversity of other shore bird species, including shorebirds, pelicans, and cormorants. This project will help protect their habitats while giving visitors better access to wildlife viewing.
Sustainability: By consolidating public access onto well-designed, environmentally-friendly trails, this project will protect Wavecrest’s grasslands, wetlands, and roosting sites.
Safety: Informal trails are not only unsafe for visitors but also accelerate erosion. The new trails will provide a safe, year-round experience for hikers, bikers, and equestrians.
Scenic Views: From the new trails and the Bird Trail, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, spot migrating whales, and watch raptors in flight—all while protecting this precious coastal ecosystem.
Project Features:
2.7 miles of compact gravel trails, with equestrian-friendly soft shoulders.
Boardwalks through wet areas to protect habitats.
Beach access stairs for safe, easy beach visits.
New parking areas with 35-45 spaces, restrooms, drinking water, and trash bins.
Preservation of Wavecrest’s wildlife habitat and native vegetation.
Accessible trails and facilities for all users, including families, seniors, and those with mobility challenges.
Wavecrest Coastal Trail is ready to welcome you safely, while protecting the natural beauty and wildlife that make this space so special. Let’s work together to keep Wavecrest a place of joy for generations to come.
Dogs are always welcome on-leash at Wavecrest. Please remember to pick up after your pets and respect others.