Peter Behr Overlook

From the bluff edge the beach reads as one long sandy arc backed by light sandstone cliffs banded with horizontal striations. Those layers began as sand laid down in a shallow sea roughly 10 to 13 million years ago, later compacted and uplifted, with erosion exposing the lines you can trace along the cliff face. On clear days the view carries out across the bay water to a distant headland, which is what makes this spot worth the climb rather than just a photo from the parking lot.

The facilities are down at the beach complex, not at the bluff edge. Near the parking lot you will find auto and bus or RV parking, accessible flush restrooms, drinking water, picnic tables, exhibits, and a visitor center with a bookstore and food and drink. Sort out restrooms and water before you head up, since there is nothing at the overlook but the view.

This is a viewpoint and nothing more, so it suits a 15 to 30 minute stop rather than an outing on its own. The bluff is exposed to wind and coastal fog, which can be cold even on a pleasant inland day. If you continue down to the sand afterward, treat the water with respect: the ocean here runs near 50°F, and sneaker waves, rip currents, and hypothermia are real hazards, so stay well back from the surf line and keep an eye on children.