Discover Shelter Cove: a Forbidden Starfish Paradise
There's a 'ghost beach' just 15 miles south of San Francisco with sea caves and tide pools ready to be discovered...but there's a catch to legally exploring this hidden gem
Why Visit Shelter Cove?
Shelter Cove boasts some of the best tide pools and starfish habitats in California. The nearby San Pedro Rocks feature unique sea caves, which can only be legally visited on certain days of the year.
Ownership and Legal Issues
The cove is privately owned by Arno Rohloff, who has been involved in various legal battles, including wrongful evictions and disputes with the City of Pacifica. There have been documented instances of Rohloff harassing beachgoers, claiming the entire beach is private.
Know Your Rights
According to California law, the state owns all land below the "ordinary high water mark." This means that despite current landownership claims, you have the right to explore this secluded spot if you plan appropriately.
Exploring Shelter Cove: A Guide
There are two ways to explore Shelter Cove, each with its own risks. Please use this guide at your own discretion. This is not a recommendation to trespass, but rather a recount of my personal adventures.