The tiny cove of China Beach lies between Baker Beach and Lands End. Legend has it that local residents named China Beach for the Chinese fishermen who, long ago, anchored their junks in the cove and camped on the beach. You can see a monument to these early residents at the trailhead near the parking area at the end of Seacliff Avenue.

China Beach’s sheltered pocket of sand provides access to the water and a place to stretch out or picnic in the sun. The beach offers a picnic area, sunbathing, good play spots for children, and fine views of the Marin Headlands and the Golden Gate.

Unpredictable surf conditions make swimming dangerous, however. For those interested in sunbathing out of the wind’s reach, there is a small deck on top of the lifeguard equipment pick-up station. Outside the station, above beach level, grills and a picnic area are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Restrooms and cold water showers are open sunrise to sunset.

VISIT CHINA BEACH: TIPS AND HIGHLIGHTS

• No pets, fires, and glass containers are allowed.
• Take a low-tide walk from China Beach to Baker Beach and find starfish, anemones, and mussels clinging to the rocky crevices of the cliffs.
• Access to the beach is via a paved drive or stairway down from the parking lot to water level.
• No lifeguards are on duty, and swimming is not recommended.