Viewfinder Photos: Tafoni and Tide Pools

Seventeen miles south of Half Moon Bay, a nature trail runs along a largely undisturbed section of the San Mateo County coastline in Pescadero.

The one-mile stretch was known originally as the Arroyo de los Frijoles Trail ("Creek of the Beans"). Today, it is more commonly known as Bean Hollow Trail. The trail is part of Bean Hollow State Beach.

Dating back to the arrival of the Spanish explorers, this strip of land has not been cultivated or developed. The result is a unique collection of mostly native plants and exquisite geology. Unusual rock formations called tafoni add to its character. Tide pools can be spotted as well.

The trail runs between Pebble Beach and Bean Hollow State Beach. Park at either end or along Highway 1 and start in the middle. Be aware that there is a fair amount of poison oak in this area. I appreciate any help identifying the plant life.

Take a virtual tour of the trail through this photo gallery posted here.

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