Local Archives — Page 196 of 294 — San Francisco Bay Guardian Archive 1966

Chimney Cove

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January 5, 2010

Rating: C

On weekends, Chimney usually draws a crowd of swimsuit-wearing families. “But when other people are not around, it’s sometimes used by teens and twenty-somethings who go nude during the week,” tells a regular visitor.

Sadly, during parties by the young people, the site is sometimes trashed. In response, local naturists usually organize garbage pickups several times a year. “During the past two decades, we’ve held a number of events to clean up the beach, but within a few weeks, kids start leaving their garbage there again,” says TAN’s North Swanson.

Legal status:

Part of Toiyabe National Forest.

How to find it:

From the North Shore, take Highway 28 south to Sand Harbor. Just over a mile south of Sand Harbor, look on your right for an iron security gate for an estate. Proceed south on 28 another 200 yards until you come to a gated Forest Service parking lot on the east (mountain) side of the highway. Or, from Stateline, follow Highway 50 north to 28. Go north on 28 about six miles until you see a parking lot on the west (lake) side of the highway. Don’t park there. Continue north on 28 just over a half-mile and turn right into the other parking lot, described above. Park in the little, 30-car lot, walk across the highway, and take the easy trail down to the beach. It should take you about 5-10 minutes to reach the sand.

The beach:

A curving, sandy shoreline with hundreds of boulders, both in and next to the water.

The crowd:

On hot summer weekdays, Chimney attracts a few young nudists. But it’s mostly a suited beach.

Problems:

Parking lot easy to miss. “Suited users sometimes look at you funny if you’re nude there,” says visitor Robert Carlsen.

Hidden Beach

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January 5, 2010

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Rating: B

It may be hidden to passersby on the road above its location, but we’ll give you directions to find this beautiful little cove, which is about a half mile south of Incline Village. Hidden Beach is the first of a line of seven intriguing clothing-optional shorelines near Sand Harbor on Lake Tahoe in an area just south of Incline.

“The sand situation is pretty good,” says North Swanson, the much-respected leader of the Tahoe Area Naturists (TAN). “We have plenty of sand now and, as we get deeper into the summer, we’ll have more.”

Parking for Hidden and the other beaches listed in this section continues to be challenging on the hottest days, so be sure to come early. The lot at Hidden, which serves most of the other beaches, only has space for 30 vehicles.

Suggests visitor Steve Williams: “A half mile south of the lot, you can find parking on the lake side of Highway 28.” Or walk one quarter mile north of the first lot to another 30-car lot, which mainly serves Chimney Beach (see below entry).

Here’s another tip: don’t wear sandals or flip-flops on the trails to any of the local beaches, including Hidden. Closed-toe shoes will prevent you from suffering from a common local pet peeve caused by scratchy pine needles and pine tar entering shoes with large openings. Not surprisingly, this malady is called “needle stab.”

Legal status:

Nevada Division Of Parks property.

How to find it:

From the North Shore, take Highway 28 south to the Memorial Point Visitors Center parking lot, about a half mile north of Sand Harbor. Park there only if you want to take a short, 20-minute dip, or, if they’re available, in one of the hard-to-find parking spaces along Highway 28. Hidden Beach is located next to the highway, about a half-mile south of its intersection with Lakeshore Drive. From the lot, walk along the highway until you see the nude beach, which will be clearly visible from a guardrail between Highway 28 and the sand.

The beach:

True to its name, Hidden’s sandy beach is so hidden from view that even though the beach is located between the lake and the nearby highway, it can only be seen from the road by peering over a guardrail.

The crowd:

Mostly clothing-optional users, who are usually tolerated by state rangers.

Problems:

Hard to find; tight parking in lots on hot days; can be seen from road by pedestrians who peer over; needs better directions.

Elsewhere Near Willow Creek

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January 5, 2010

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Rating: C

Just west and east of the town of Willow Creek, cars pulled over in groups along Highway 299 are often signs of skinny-dipping holes used by local residents. Want more privacy? “You just kind of drive along for several miles before or after the town,” says former coastal resident Kie Relyea. “There are some places where you can get off the road. You look for a trail, and if it feels OK, you take it down to the water. We just keep going until we find a deserted spot or a place that has somebody you feel OK with who may also be naked. When you get to the beach, you just take off your clothes. The locals usually don’t mind.”

Legal status:

Unknown

How to find it:

Take Highway 101 north to Eureka and Arcata. Pick up Highway 299 two miles north of Arcata. Continue east, looking for access to the river before and after the town of Willow Creek, about 30 minutes from Arcata. Keep your eyes open for trails heading toward the water, then follow them to sandy patches of riverbank next to your own private, just-discovered swimming hole.

The beach:

Small swimming holes, usually with a few patches of sand next to the water’s edge, with enough space for several people to hang out on towels or beach chairs.

The crowd:

On warm days, usually just you and a few other visitors. Otherwise, be prepared for solitude — these swim spots are often deserted.

Problems:

Rocky river bottom; cold water; unknown legal status; needs better directions; dense undergrowth (and possible poison oak) on trails.

Willow Creek Beach

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January 5, 2010

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Rating: C

On warm days, local residents can often be found at a swimming hole with a small riverbank beach just outside the town of Willow Creek and east of Willow Creek Bridge. But not everyone there is naked. “On the day I went there wasn’t anybody nude, but I know other people who like to get naked there,” says a visitor who went with his girlfriend and found several other couples present.

Legal status:

Unknown

How to find it:

From the coast, go east on Highway 299 to Willow Creek, some 30 minutes from Arcata. After crossing Willow Creek Bridge, check your odometer Less than a mile east of the bridge, pull off the highway to your left onto a little dirt road that runs parallel to the highway. The road has small shrubby oaks on either side. After 100 meters or so, it ends at the beach parking area. Park and take the path down to the creek.

The beach:

A mix of sand and rocks.

The crowd:

Few persons visit Willow Creek Bridge beach; those who do may be nude or suited.

Problems:

Unknown legal status; rocky river bottom; cold water; needs better directions.

Baker’s Beach

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January 5, 2010

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Recommended!

Rating: A

Baker’s features a quarter moon-shaped shoreline lined with tide pools and agates that make it one of the best beaches in Humboldt County. Better still, the site is shrouded from sight by greenery. “I go year round and can tell you that it’s one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve seen in the world,” says Mike, of Trinidad. “It’s really quiet,” adds Vince, an Arcata resident. “It’s never crowded. And the trail is easy.” For a relaxing afternoon of sunbathing, swimming, or exploring, look for this “must visit” cove some 12 miles north of Arcata, off Highway 101.

Legal status:

Apparently owned by the Baker family. Nude use is tolerated.

How to find it:

From Arcata, drive 12 miles north on Highway 101. Take the Westhaven exit to Scenic Drive, then follow Scenic north to a large, vine-covered residence sign and a rusted Private Property marker on the right (look for pulled-over cars). The quarter-mile-long beach path begins 20 yards beyond two mailboxes near the signs.

Sometimes Scenic Drive washes out, so here’s another route. Says Mike: “Start north at Trinidad (HUM milepost 101). Scenic starts in Trinidad at the first intersection before the grocery store. Head south on Scenic 1.4 miles to Baker Ranch Road. Pass Baker Ranch but stop at the next driveway past Baker Ranch. Look for a post marking the trailhead to the beach on the west (coast) side of the road and follow it to the beach.”

The beach:

Instead of sand, the beach is mostly composed of sesame seed-sized pebbles.

The crowd:

Crowds have dropped from a few years ago, when local resident Carl Gelden-Meyers counted up to 40 people present on the hottest days. “I’ve rarely seen more than a dozen persons,” reports Mike. “They are mostly mellow college students,” says Gelden-Meyers. Some families also visit the site, which gets both nude and suited use.

Problems:

Car burglaries and gawkers reported in the past.

Garberville Nude Beach

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January 5, 2010

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Rating: C

Look for this quiet, riverbank site along the south branch of the Eel River, near the first highway exit into. It isn’t visible from the highway, but there are houses nearby, so please use this area with caution. Most local residents prefer visiting North Garberville Beach, which is our next listing.

Legal status:

Unknown, may be public property.

How to find it:

From Mendocino, go north on Highway 1 to Garberville, passing Rockport and Leggett (where 1 merges with Highway 101), or take 101 north all the way to Garberville. The road becomes a two-lane highway bordered by redwoods. Take the first Garberville exit. Turn left at the “To San Francisco” sign, the first major intersection in the city. Instead of following the highway onramp, go straight. After the street goes downhill, turn right onto the first paved road. Park near the big pile of gravel (you may see cars pulled over, which is usually a good sign). An easy trail, usually without poison oak, will take you to the south fork of the river.

The beach:

A skinny-dipping hole, protected from view from the road by a hill. Bring flip-flops or old sneakers to wear in the river.

The crowd:

Probably just you. Even on hot days, you may find only a few nude bathers.

Problems:

Unknown legal status; cold water; homes nearby; river rocks.

Willits Nude Hole

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January 5, 2010

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Rating: C

At Willits’ nude swimming hole, “just about everyone goes nude,” says Mary. “In fact, if you leave your clothes on, it’s considered strange.” But don’t worry, nobody’s going to haul you away if you don’t conform to local tradition. In fact, Willits has both nude and non-nude holes, so there are plenty of choices available. The town’s skinny-dipping site is about 30 minutes from downtown. “It’s a great place to visit from spring into the early autumn,” adds Mary. “It tends to be warm, but not overly hot.” Visitors follow paved roads from town and then turn onto a rutted road that leads to the river. You can pick from a number of holes on either side of the water. “It’s a miserable, hot, dirty road, with lots of dust,” says Mary. And you may get a surprise in the water if “you feel something nipping at your feet,” tells Mary’s husband, Bill. Depending on the time of year, “little black clouds” of small fish or possibly pollywogs may emerge from under river rocks and swarm around you. Bring water shoes to wear along the shore, which has both sand and rocks. Except for the rutted road and small, somewhat ticklish fish, expect a day of fun at this mellow, clothing-free sun spot.

Legal status:

Unknown.

How to find it:

From San Francisco, take Highway 101 north to Willits. In downtown Willits, turn right on E. Commercial Street and, passing the library and fairgrounds, continue straight. At the curve, bear left. Look for a driving range on the right and a white building on the left. At the street with the white building, turn left. A mile or so later, turn right. The Hearst Willits Road sign is a good landmark. If you see it, keep going straight until you come to Tomki Creek. Cross the bridge over the creek, then turn left onto the first road, which parallels the creek. Note: it’s mostly dirt, with intermittent pavement. You’ll soon come to a spot where you can turn left or go uphill. Drive uphill until you arrive at Hearst. After Hearst, look for a steel bridge on your left. Before or at the bridge, on the left, check for a deeply rutted road. Turn left and follow car tracks to the river. Park and walk upstream or downstream to any of several skinny-dipping holes.

The beach:

A series of swimming holes dotting both sides of the river for the length of a city block. The beaches are mainly gravely riverbanks, with some sand. “The best hole, which is deep, is next to a rock formation on the other side of the river,” says Bill. “For some nice holes with faster water, walk upstream.”

The crowd:

“Depending on when you visit and which spot you pick, you can be by yourself or, on a hot weekend, with 10 or 20 people,” says Mary. A few visitors have bonfires on the beach. Almost everybody is nude, according to Mary.

Problems:

Unknown legal status; nipping fish; rutted and dusty roads; gravel-strewn riverbank.

Eel River

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January 5, 2010

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Rating: C

Along the electrifyingly beautiful Eel River, there are at least seven holes used for clothing-optional swimming including this one, which is mainly visited by local residents. It’s located on the south fork of the river, near the town of Pillsbury.

Legal status:

Part of Mendocino National Forest.

How to find it:

From San Francisco, head north on Highway 101, passing Santa Rosa and Ukiah, to Route 20. Take Route 20 east about five miles to the Potter Valley cutoff on your left and follow it northeast past the town of Potter Valley, north of Upper Lake. Follow the signs to Lake Pillsbury. After you climb a ridge and begin to go back down, follow the left fork in the road. Access to the south fork of the Eel is from this road, some 10 miles south of Van Arsdale Reservoir and Cape Horn Dam. The reservoir and dam are south of Pillsbury. Consult a good map.

The beach:

Small but comfortable, a good spot to soak up a few rays next to a deep swimming hole.

The crowd:

Just a few bathers in the buff, plus suited swimmers too.

Problems:

Increased trash; directions could be improved.

Boyles Swimming Hole

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January 5, 2010

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Rating: C

Also as Dead Man’s Hole, Boyles mostly draws suited swimmers to a site that’s further up Big River from Lilies Beach and just east of Mendocino Woodlands State Park. But a few skinny-dippers also hike or bike to Boyles, which even has a great rope swing. Take the trail that begins at Lilies. The crowd here is a little noisier and more social than the more laid-back types found at Lilies.

One nagging problem is that although access is blocked to recreational vehicles by fallen trees, “motorcycles are still an issue,” says Stephanie Anderson, park manager of the nearby Mendocino Woodlands Camp Association. “Motorcyclists are finding a way through any inch [of road] they can.”

Legal status:

Part of the Big River unit of Mendocino Headlands State Park. A park plan says that swimming at Boyles is “currently not restricted,” a possible indication that nudity may be allowed to continue.

How to find it:

Follow directions to Lilies Beach. Park where the dirt road ends at Big River and, turning left, parking where you see other cars pulled over. “When you exit your vehicle, you’ll be facing a yellow gate with a bridge viewable behind it,” tells Brian, a local resident. “Take the trail that starts there and stay on it until you arrive at Boyles.” For most walkers, the hike from the Lilies area and the Mendocino Woodlands Camp property will be quick. “I can walk there in 10 minutes,” says Anderson. Boyles is east and slightly south of Lilies. For location, see the right side of this map or go here.

The beach:

A nice deep swimming hole with a rope swing.

The crowd:

Most of the several to dozen or so visitors on an average day will probably be suited. And on some days, the scene is downright crowded. “There’s been a ton of people down at Boyles,” said Anderson. “There’s more beer drinking and more trash there than at Lilies,” says Jeanne Coleman, education director of the Mendocino Woodlands Camp Association. On days when Boyles isn’t busy, a few skinny-dippers can be found plunging into the cool, invigorating water.

Problems:

Same as Lilies, plus motorcycles on trail (see above) and a rowdier crowd.

Lilies Beach

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January 5, 2010

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Rating: A

Mendocino’s Lilies Beach, one of Northern California’s top swimming holes, has more water than the last few years. “And,” adds Jeanne Coleman, the affable education director of the nearby Mendocino Woodlands Camp Association, “people can’t drive to it because of a fallen bay tree, so it’s never crowded.” Coleman’s never seen more than 30 people there, and that group was on a field trip from the Woodlands. “I’m looking forward to going there right now,” she told us last summer. “I like it because it keeps getting sunlight late into the day and has a nice gravel sand bar.” Plus, when we spoke with her, Lilies’ stream orchids were in full bloom.

Lilies is great to visit in summer or early fall, when temperatures often rise into the 80’s, even though it may be only in the 50’s just down the street in nearby Mendocino village. Depending on the previous winter’s storms, roads leading from Little Lake Road near Highway 1 in Mendo may be rutted, but usually passable. Expect a nice, fairly mellow crowd with a mix of men and women with up to half of them nude, a drop from 10 years ago. There’s usually a sprinkling of youths, who deputies sometimes cite for underage drinking. In the past, some visitors have complained about trash and noise from adjacent homeless camps, but the campers have only occasionally been spotted in recent years. “Nobody cares whether you have clothes on,” adds Coleman. “And it gets less traffic and trash than anywhere else nearby. I often see people stop off who have been mountain biking.”

Legal status:

Part of the Big River unit of Mendocino Headlands State Park. According to a park planning document, the hole at Lilies is considered a “local gathering spot” and swimming there is “currently not restricted,” a sign that nudity may be permitted to continue.

How to find it:

From Albion, take Highway 1 north to Mendocino, then turn right on Little Lake Road, the first right turn past the main Mendocino turnoff sign. Drive four or five miles east on Little Lake until you see a sign for Mendocino Woodlands. Follow the dirt road that starts there for about three miles. When you see the Woodlands retreat, go right about .3 miles, until the dirt road ends next to Big River. Park just off the road, where you see other cars pulled over. Follow the trail that begins there a quarter mile to the beach. Or, to save 1.5 miles, from Mendocino drive 3.5 miles east on Little Lake until you spot a dirt road with a yellow Forest Service gate. Follow the road to a second yellow gate. Just past the gate, at the juncture of several roads, turn right and take the dirt road to the parking area. The walk from the Woodlands only takes about 20 minutes.

The beach:

Are you ready to enjoy a beautiful forest riverbank with nice water for swimming? If so, then you’ll probably like Lilies. Bring flip-flops or old shoes to wear in the rock-strewn creek. To reach the beach from the path, wade across the water to a site that’s part sand and also has some gravel.

The crowd:

Anywhere from a few (more the norm) to 20 people can usually be found at Lilies, depending on the time of year and weather, according to frequent visitor Henry. That’s quite a plunge from the crowds that came in the ’80s and ’90s, when some 50 to 200 users would appear on hot summer days, nine out of 10 of them usually going nude. Nudists, including small groups and families who often come in the summer, enjoy the town’s favorite swimming hole along with swimsuit-wearing teens and adults.

Problems:

Increased ticketing of off-road drivers and underage drinkers reported; bumpy, rutted roads after heavy winter rains; trash near parking area; poison oak may be present; rocky river bottom; cold water; long walk to beach.

Upper Long Valley

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January 5, 2010

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Rating: C

A small swimming hole that is occasionally used for nude or topless swimming or sunbathing on weekdays, Upper Long Valley draws suited visitors on weekends.It may be worth checking out when there’s enough water in the creek and nobody else is present.

Legal status:

Unknown.

How to find it:

See the description for its downstream cousin, Lower Long Valley (above). To find this clothing-optional beach, walk a few sandy banks upstream from Lower Long Valley.

The beach:

A sun-washed shoal next to a cool, invigorating creek that’s visited by a few local residents and travelers.

The crowd:

Like Lower Long Valley, this site gets infrequent traffic.

Problems:

Area subject to law enforcement; directions need improvement; unknown legal status.

Cazadero

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January 5, 2010

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Rating: D

While it’s true that several skinny-dipping holes used by local residents are located near the Russian River town of Cazadero, they are surrounded by private property. And their owners don’t like trespassers, so if they spot one, they are usually quick to call deputies.

Legal status:

The area around the holes is private property. But what about the water? It’s a murky question. “Many property owners claim the water to the middle of the river as their property,” says Sonoma County Sheriff’s Deputy Gregg Paul. Lawyers who have researched these claims say that “if you can kayak or paddle to a swimming hole, you can use it, but not the riverbank,” adds Paul. “But if you can’t paddle to it, it’s private property.” When called to the scene, deputies usually try to avoid the controversy by urging visitors to leave. See Lower Wohler Bridge for policy. If you have any questions about legal issues, we suggest you contact local authorities.

How to find it:

From San Francisco, take Highway 101 north, past Santa Rosa, to River Road. Follow River Road and Highway 116 west through Guerneville to the cutoff for Cazadero, which is called Austin Creek Road. Turn left on Cazadero. Hole one: In town, take Fort Ross Road west past Neistrath Road to Bohan Dillon Road. (If you get to Meyers Grade Road, you’ve gone three miles too far.) Turn right on Bohan Dillon, a dirt road that crosses a bridge. Park in the meadow just before the bridge. Take the little trail that starts there through the trees and bushes to the riverbank. Hole two: Look for cars pulled over off Kings Ridge Road, which heads north from Cazadero.

The beach:

Little riverside swimming holes, usually ringed by private land.

The crowd:

Use varies, but is often limited to just a few people, even on the hottest days. More often, such places are deserted.

Problems:

You’ll probably be visited or cited by a deputy if the owner of the property or a family member, friend, or passerby complains; trash; noise; needs better directions.

Elsewhere on Russian River

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January 5, 2010

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Rating: C

To begin your own nude beach or check out areas on the Russian River that are infrequently used by nudists, look for cars pulled over on one of the roads near the water, park, and go exploring. Or simply walk along the river’s edge or a nearby path or paddle upstream or downstream. Several sandy areas attract skinny-dippers who like to start their own clothing-optional sites. Spots that are fully or partially shielded from view work best. Please remember that if local residents or passing river users complain, then you may be cited, so please use these traditional hangouts with discretion.

Legal status:

Public access areas of private land. For policy, see Lower Wohler Bridge.

How to find it:

From San Francisco, take Highway 101 north to Healdsburg, north of Santa Rosa. Favorite skinny-dipping locales that have not been raided often include the riverbanks off North Fitch Mountain Road and West Side Road, which parallels the Russian River between Guerneville and Healdsburg, and Steelhead Beach, across from the now-defunct Rusty Nail Bar, in the Mirabel area of Guerneville. Reader Doug wrote us, saying, “as long as people are well behaved, the locals don’t mind” topless and nude sunbathing off a hard to find path near 2500 North Fitch Mountain Road. We investigated and were told by operators of a parking lot at 2636 North Fitch Mountain that nudists seldom appear and when they do local residents are quick to call deputies.

The beach:

Sandy stretches of riverbank, except off North Fitch, which is a mix of gravel and sand.

The crowd:

It will probably be just you!

Problems:

Needs better directions; areas open to view by canoeists; possible raids by deputies; limited parking on North Fitch Mountain Road and elsewhere.

The Rocks

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January 5, 2010

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Rating: C

It’s risky behavior, so not everyone jumps from The Rocks, as a local skinny-dipping hole is known, into the Russian River. Visitors also like to sunbathe, swim, read, and just relax at the sunny, waterside nook, which has been growing in popularity.

Legal status:

Public access land of private property. See Lower Wohler Bridge for enforcement policy.

How to find it:

Follow the trail from Sunset (see above) downstream about a quarter mile.

The beach:

A 200-foot long sandy riverbank that has high rocks on one side, plus a deep swimming hole. Some visitors dive or jump off the rocks.

The crowd:

“It’s used by a mix of men, women, and couples,” says Tom, a frequent visitor. “No citations have ever been issued at this beach to my knowledge.” Best time to visit is late on weekdays. The rest of the time, says Tom, “it’s pretty busy with clothed vacation users.”

Problems:

Area subject to visits by deputies; nude use usually limited to weekdays; needs better directions.

Fuller’s Beach

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January 5, 2010

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Rating: B

“It’s kind of a secret place, even to people here in Big Sur,” says George, a state parks aide at nearby Molera, of the surfing paradise known as Fuller’s Beach.Regular visitors suggest using extreme care when going down the path to the sand, which also attracts nude sunbathers.Warns Alex, an area resident: “If an inexperienced surfer … breaks his leg on the rocks and has to get air lifted or (take an) ambulance ride out, this will be the end of our beautiful beach access.”Speaking of access, it’s via a long, poison-oak lined trail.Suggests George:”Just remember to take a shower with liquid soap when you get home, and you shouldn’t have a problem with the plants.”

Legal status:

Beach owned by the David and Lucile Packard Foundation.The trail is said to be property of Charlie Crockett.

How to find it:

Finding Fullers is a little dicey. Along Highway 1, south of Big Sur and Pfeiffer Beach, look for the Nepenthe Restaurant, 29 miles south of Carmel, 2 miles south of Pfeiffer Beach and 63 miles north of San Simeon. A few miles south of the restaurant, before Highway 1 curves to the east (Grimes Canyon), check for cars pulled over on the west (ocean) side of the highway in a little pullout next to a telephone pole. A larger pullout used mostly by Caltrans workers is on the east side of the road. Follow the path from the west pullout to the beach. “It’s very steep,” says George. “When you go to the beach, you will be going straight down. But coming back, you will be going straight up.”

The beach:

If you are a fan of rugged isolation, you’ll love windswept Fullers. The beach is a haven for the few local surfers who know about it. You’re more likely to find boards than sunbathers on the beach.

The crowd:

On good wave-riding days, most of the crowd will be in the water, while you will be sitting there, sprawled out in the nude on your beach towel, watching the free surf show, thinking to yourself, “Yes, life is good!” Usually, only a few nude sunbathers use the site.

Problems:

Not very sandy; poison oak on trail; pullout hard to find; steep path; not too many nudists present.

Fernwood

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January 5, 2010

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Rating: C

Roughly 30 miles south of Carmel, next to a creek near the Big Sur area’s Fernwood Resort and its Redwood Grill restaurant, visitors will find a nude swimming hole with some telltale signs of the hippie era of the 1960s.”Look for old couches on the riverbank, naked people, and a river,” says Fred, of Pacific Grove.”Nobody bothers you.”

Legal status:

Unknown.

How to find it:

The beach is about a quarter mile north of the Grill and three quarters of a mile north of Pfeiffer Beach (see next entry), so if you pass either, turn around. Just south of the Big Sur River (see previous entry) on Highway 1, look for St. Francis Church and an old sign on the ocean side of the road directing visitors to the bar and grill. Follow the path that starts at the sign; it will take you down to a streamside swimming hole used by local skinny-dippers.

The beach:

A creekside swimming hole.

The crowd:

“There’s usually nobody there,” says Fred.

Problems:

Unknown legal status; needs better directions.

North Marina

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January 5, 2010

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Rating: C

Improved directions!

Nude sunbathers have been appearing on a little beach just 300 feet north of Marina State Beach for years. “People have been going here for two decades,” says Tom, of Monterey. Adds frequent visitor and local business owner Debbie, “It’s warm and secluded.” The main sunning area for nudies is between two large sand dunes close to the shore.

Legal status:

Unknown, believed to be private property.

How to find it:

From San Jose, take Highway 101 south to Prunedale, then Highway 146 west to join Highway 1 south at Castroville. Approaching Marina, exit at Reservation Road, turning left (east). At the first signal, turn right on Reservation and follow it to the little parking lot at the end. Walk back along Reservation to Dunes Drive and follow Dunes about 300 feet north, passing Marina Dunes Resort, located at 3295 Dunes Drive, and a sand-processing plant, until you see a yellow vehicle gate on the west (ocean) side of Dunes Drive, across from two motels. Limited parking is also available in front of the gate. The gate blocks traffic, not people, from a beach path; follow it up and down five dunes until just before the beach. The nude area is between the last two dunes, just to the right of the trail.

The beach:

“It’s warm and secluded,” says Debbie, a longtime visitor. “People have been going here for 25 years.” Veteran users say the best time to visit is June or autumn.

The crowd:

“The beach is never crowded because only local residents know about it,” says Tom, of Monterey County.

Problems:

Unknown legal status; fog; cold water; proximity to path; limited street parking.

Privates Beach

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January 5, 2010

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Highly recommended!

Rating: A

“Privates is one of my favorite beaches,” says Brittney Barrios, manager/buyer of Freeline Design Surf Shop, which is located nearby and sells keys to unlock the gate leading to the clean, beautiful cove.. “It’s always very peaceful.” Visitors include nudists, surfers, families, and local residents. “Everyone gets along,” adds Barrios. “And it’s never crowded.”

Barrios says many of the naturists, who often visit in groups, like to play Paddle Ball on the sand. As for Barrios, she prefers to “lay out,” as she calls it, in the sun.

There’s almost no litter, wind, noise, or troublemakers — security guards plus a locked gate keep the latter out — and world class surfers, such as those who starred in Endless Summer II, regularly put on a free show for the naked people who share the warm, clean sand with surfers.

“It’s really nice,” says Hunter Young, a former worker at Freeline, which sells up to 600 beach passes a year. “Surfers love it because it has good waves. It’s 100 percent standup surfing, with paddling. Anytime I go to Privates, I can expect a long ride on my longboard.”

“The beach is also very family oriented,” explains Barrios. “And it’s okay for dogs too.”

“There are two different coves on the beach,” says Young. “Clothed families who use the beach know which cove is nude and stay away from it. If you want to play naked Frisbee, at the bottom of the beach stairs you just walk to the left.”

There are four main ways to get to Privates, which is off Opal Cliff Drive, north of the Capitola Pier, and takes its name from the gate at the entrance, as well as the young security guards at the top of the path (“They’re usually 18-23 year old guys who give information on how to get a key or assist people in using theirs,” says Young), both intended to keep the site “private”:

1) Some visitors walk north from Capitola Pier in low tide (Four people walked from Capitola Beach to a beach just east of Privates, only to become trapped by rising water; they were rescued by swimmers and officers from a harbor patrol boat).

2) Others reach it in low tide via the stairs at the end of 41st Avenue, which lead to a surf spot called The Hook at the south end of a rocky shoreline known as Pleasure Point.

3) Surfers paddle on boards for a few minutes to Privates from Capitola or The Hook.

4) And still others enter the beach from little Opal Cliff Park, on the cliffs, via a key entry gate at the top of a staircase. The park is between two houses, near 4524 Opal Cliff Drive.

Most users buy a key for $100 (cash only) at Freeline Design Surf Shop, 821 41st Ave., Santa Cruz. 831-476-2950, some 1.5 blocks west of the beach. The keys, which are changed yearly, are good June 1 through May 31; if you purchase a key late in the year, there’s no discount. Local residents listed on a roll of taxpayers (kept at Freeline), who pay property taxes to support the park and gate, can get a yearlong key for $50.

Another option is to try to go through the gate for free. “I’ve either gone along with someone with a key, or waited outside the gate until someone with a key goes in and then followed them,” says Bay Area Naturists leader Rich Pasco. “Most beachgoers will gladly hold the gate open for someone behind them whose hands are full.” But that only works if a guard is not present (they often are there).

Legal status: Privates is managed by the Opal Cliffs Recreation District and is funded by neighborhood property taxes and beach dues. The district maintains the park and stairwell, but is subject to the terms of the California Coastal Commission, which as recently as 2009 asked the district to make some changes.

How to find it:

In Santa Cruz, park in the five-vehicle lot next to Opal Cliff Park, in front of the gate near 4524 Opal Cliff Drive; find street parking elsewhere on Opal Cliff; or, from Freeline, walk 1.5 blocks (roughly five minutes) east to the park, which is the size of an average house lot. Go down the staircase. The nude area is to the left of the bottom of the stairs.

The beach:

A beautiful, gently curving, sandy site. Clothing-optional users usually gather at a separate cove on the south part of the beach (to the left of the entrance, when facing the ocean); a quarter acre cove used by clothed beachgoers, separated from the nude one by a rocky outcropping, is to the right. The beach is backed by slowly eroding sandstone and siltstone cliffs.

The crowd:

Expect a mix of nudists and surfers, including locals and out-of-towners. “I was down there with a friend who was babysitting a bunch of little kids,” says Young, who’s now an emergency medical technician on an ambulance. “There were families there having a really good time. Then there were all these people surfing. And to the far left, as you face the ocean, there were the nudists.” Depending on when you arrive, you may be alone or one of several dozen visitors. “Usually, you’ll see five-to-10 nudists at the most,” adds Young. “They act cool and mostly sunbathe. It’s not like they are walking around with their stuff hanging out. On a really hot weekend day, there will be maybe six-to-15 families on the beach and eight-to-12 surfers when the waves are small, or up to 15 during big waves.”

Problems:

Entrance fee; small parking lot; cold water; fog; sometimes a few sticks on the beach.

2222

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January 5, 2010

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Improved directions!

Rating: A

In late May, when my girlfriend and I visited a little cliffside park above it and peered down on the aptly named 2222 — it’s the number of the house across the street — we discovered that the pocket-size cove looked as beautiful as ever. In fact, America’s smallest nude beach is so small it could probably fit in your yard. And that’s what makes it a magical place. You won’t find crowds at 2222, which takes scrambling to reach and isn’t recommended for children or anyone who isn’t a good hiker. However, those who are agile enough to make it down a steep cliff and over some concrete blocks on the way down will probably be rewarded with an oasis of calm and a good spot to catch some sunrays. The most dependable trail begins on the southeast corner of the hillside overlooking the site. Even though there’s a walking path just above it, the beach can’t be seen from there. College students like to hangout here and, if they’re lucky, get a glimpse of a local juggler who sometimes practices his routines on the sand. Tip: for great accommodations, check out the West Cliff Inn, 174 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, a bed and breakfast inn located a few blocks to the south; it’s somewhat pricey, but truly enjoyable.

Legal status:

Santa Cruz city property.

How to find it:

The beach is a few blocks west of Natural Bridges State Beach and about 2.5 miles north of the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. From either north or south of Santa Cruz, take Highway 1 to Swift Street. Drive .8 miles to the sea, then turn right on West Cliff Drive. 2222 is five blocks away. Past Auburn Avenue, look for 2222 West Cliff on the inland side of the street. Park in the pullout with eight parking spaces next to the cliff. If it’s full, continue straight and park along Chico Avenue. An overlook with two benches facing an interesting obelisk-style sculpture is located between the parking area. Bay Area Naturists leader Rich Pasco suggests visitors use care and then follow the path on the side of the beach closest to downtown Santa Cruz and the Municipal Wharf.

The beach:

As Pasco puts it, “It’s a small, delicate, baby beach.” Depending on the tide, the beach measures a quarter to a half acre in size. Although the trail is littered with rocks and eroding soil, the cove itself is flat and very sandy.

The crowd:

Although it can sometimes be deserted (during my last visit, nobody was there), on a warm Sunday, we counted five nudists. Pasco found “maybe 10-to-15 people” at the beach. Almost everyone goes nude.

Problems:

Limited parking; proximity to residences; lack of privacy; cold water; may be foggy or windy; flies; steep trail with concrete blocks.

Its Beach

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January 5, 2010

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Rating: C

It’s a beach, but whose beach is Its? Although derided by recent visitor Andrea, of Portland, for “decaying kelp” that’s often left on the beach (It’s “no fun for walking on,” she adds), the main issue that’s been brewing for years at the shore in front of the lighthouse on Santa Cruz’s West Cliff Drive is whether or not dogs should be banned. Dog lovers and haters, plus a small contingent of nudists, are regular visitors to the site, near Santa Cruz’s Municipal Wharf. Both sides have been howling. Some regulars want the dogs to be banned or leashed, but there’s also a strong local movement to let them roam free. Under one plan, announced in 2008, the city of Santa Cruz would buy 2.5 acres of Its Beach from the state for $103,000, and the rest of Lighthouse Field State Beach in the future, which would allow the dogs to be legally off-leash, which isn’t allowed at other state beaches. The beach itself is nothing to write home about. For the best sand, visit in late summer or early fall. Nearby attractions include the lighthouse’s surfing museum; a butterfly refuge at Natural Bridges State Beach; the Municipal Wharf; and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, with an amusement park and rides.

Legal status:

Lighthouse Field State Beach, also known as Its Beach and Point Santa Cruz.

How to find it:

Take Highway 1 to Swift Street in Santa Cruz. Follow Swift to the sea, then turn right on West Cliff Drive. Follow West Cliff until you see the lighthouse. Starting from the wharf, take West Cliff Drive north to the lighthouse, which will be on the left (beach) side of the street. Park at the lighthouse and walk down to the little, pebble-strewn shore. The nude section is at the far right end of the beach.

The beach:

Small with a mix of sand and rocks.

The crowd:

Visitors are mostly suited, but the site gets occasional use by nude sunbathers. Members of yelp.com seem to love the nudists. “My favorite beach in Santa Cruz by far,” says Gretchen P., of San Francisco. ” … I got accustomed to the naked people and deadheads … The cozy enclave feeling of this little crescent moon of a beach made me feel safe and I could sleep and read and roast for hours without being bothered.” Andrew B. writes: “The best beach in Santa Cruz. It has lots of cool dogs, a few naked hippies, and a fun little beach … to play in.” Dave, of San Jose, called it “hands down the best beach to take your dog … The vibe here is hot and on a hot sunny day it can get packed.” He found “crunchy hippy nudists and a drum circle that can go on for days with mega gatherings” on the right side of the beach.”

Problems:

Unleashed dogs may soon come romping onto the sand; cold water; wind; fog; hazardous swimming conditions; beach open to view.

Devil’s Slide (Gray Whale Cove)

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January 5, 2010

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Improved directions!

Recommended!

Devil’s Slide (Gray Whale Cove)

Rating: A

Gray Whale Cove, which is often called Devil’s Slide, continues to get rave reviews from visitors.

“There were lots of young, fit guys on the nudie part and about five women,” reports Alexis, of San Leandro, who visited this June and told Yelp she stayed for over five hours because it was “very warm and sunny.” The water was “very cold, but just jump in,” she suggests. “It’s somewhat tolerable and you’ll get used to it.”

“This is a great nude beach and it is a romantic place,” reports a male visitor who dropped by in April.

Adds Grace, of South San Francisco: “You don’t have to walk a half mile just to see the edge of the water.” And, she added, it’s “very secluded” so it isn’t as crowded as many other local beaches.

And here’s some even better news: although the beach appears on the list of parks scheduled to be closed this month by the state due to budget shortfalls, officials plan to keep it open while they negotiate with what Paul Keel, San Mateo coast state parks sector superintendent, calls a prospective “donor to keep it in operation for the coming year.”

At press time, Keel told us that although “nothing’s been signed or inked, it’s fair to say we are optimistic, so hopefully we will know more in the next month.”

Access to the site, though, is changing: after a long-awaited, voter-approved Devil’s Slide tunnel is completed this fall, Keel and others expect a possible increase in traffic to the beach, as more pedestrians and bicyclists use a nearby section of Highway 1 that is being closed.

Meanwhile, rangers say they will allow a long-standing tradition of nudity to continue on the sand unless visitors complain. “But it’s not a nude beach,” Supervising State Park Ranger Michael Grant told us several seasons ago.

However, with state budget woes and cutbacks of personnel, there have not been any reports of nudists being chased off the sprawling, pristine site. Even if someone wants to complain about the naked people, rangers aren’t usually at the beach and cell phone reception there to try to reach them is regarded as poor.

Part of the beach isn’t even within state land, so it’s not subject to enforcement by rangers.

Grant told us that enforcement is being left up to individual rangers. “What we do varies, depending on the circumstances,” he says. “Every case is different.”

Another administrator claims that it’s unlikely nudists will be told to leave. “It’s a relatively remote place, so we aren’t going to be pursuing enforcement against nudity at Gray Whale Cove,” said the administrator, who wanted to remain anonymous. “Nothing’s changed about our enforcement.”

He said, though, that if a ranger drove up and saw two groups of school children approaching, then the beach would not be regarded as “remote” anymore. In such a case, naturists would probably be asked to suit up.

About one or two in every 20-30 visitors go nude at the beautiful cove — quite a contrast to the several hundred who used to strip off their clothes when the site was a privately operated nude beach a decade ago.

The remaining naturists tend to hang out on the north end of the shoreline. “It’s a good place to recharge from work,” says regular visitor Ron, who enjoys swimming there, even though signs warn of dangerous surf. The beach is open every day. Dogs are prohibited.

Legal status:

Gray Whale Cove State Beach.

How to find it:

From San Francisco, take Highway 1 south through Pacifica. Three miles south of the Denny’s restaurant in Linda Mar, turn left (inland or east) on an unmarked road, which takes you to the beach’s parking lot. Coming from the south on Highway 1, look for the turnoff road on the right (east), 1.2 miles north of the Chart House restaurant in Montara.

New directions after this fall: from the north, take Highway 1 through the Devil’s Slide tunnel and then turn left onto the road described above. From the south, continue using the above directions.

Park in the beach lot and then take a 146-step staircase leads to the sand. “The steps are in good shape,” Ron says.

Most naturists use the north end of the sand, which some visitors regard as the prettiest part of the shore. It’s separated by rocks from the rest of the beach, so regular visitors suggest waiting until low tide to make the crossing to the nude area.

Alexis, who visited when the tide was high, says: “You have to be in some kind of good shape and have the agility to climb over those boulders with the waves violently crashing into them. I got cuts on my feet, but it was easier to do it barefoot, though.”

“I lost my flip flops” during the climb, she adds. It was “too slippery with them on anyway.” She notes it is “probably not always like this.” The “tide was very rough and high at 5 p.m.”

The beach:

The 300-foot long site is surrounded by orange-hued sandstone cliffs on one side and the beautiful Pacific Ocean on the other. “The beach is beautiful” and “tucked away on the coast,” so it’s not “over populated with city folks,” tells Jane, of San Francisco. Devil’s Slide is a great place to read, tan, jog, play Frisbee, or watch (true to its state beach name) gray whales, pelicans, and surfers.

The crowd:

Tourists, families, surfers, and naturists all use the beach.

Problems:

Says Ranger Grant: “There’s been an increase in break-ins of vehicles parked along the highway. No matter where you park, be sure to remove any property and take it with you.” Other concerns include highway scheduled to be permanently closed this fall; slippery nude area access rocks; attempting to reach the nude spot in high tide can be dangerous; change in enforcement policy (see above); influx of suited visitors; cold water; fog; wind; landslides sometimes close Highway 1; long walk to the beach; three great white sharks seen in ’80s; parking fee; some sexual activity reported in north cove area and arrests for lewd behavior; and gawking (numerous reports on message boards).

Elsewhere in Marin

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January 5, 2010

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Rating: C

Want to be nude at a waterfall? After some hiking, you could make your fantasy come true right in Marin. After taking a dip in clothing-optional Bass Lake (please see previous entry above), some visitors like to walk a little further to gorgeous Alamere Falls, which is actually four separate falls. “It was spectacular,” says recent visitor Ryan, of the East Bay. Other Marin locations that get limited clothing-optional use include Fern Grove, close to Starlight Meadow, in the Dogtown area; and the Inkwell Spillways, near the Inkwell in Lagunitas, which made an indelible impression on a reader named Larry: “It felt comfortable to visit. Just do it discreetly.”

Visitor Trevor Murphy told us that the water at Alamere is impressive during the spring but slows down by September. “The big part of the falls goes over a cliff into the sea,” he explains, “but there’s another stage higher up where the stream falls into a couple of stone pools on a little plateau.” In all, Alamere is a whopping 70 feet high, with the lower part measuring maybe 40 to 45 feet.

Legal status:

Alamere Falls and Fern Grove are on federal land managed by Point Reyes National Seashore. The status of Inkwell Spillways is unknown; it is said to be monitored and posted with No Trespassing signs.

How to find it:

To find Alamere, follow the directions to Bass Lake, then continue 1.5 miles from Bass on the Palomarin Trail past Pelican Pond to the waterfalls. Watch for poison oak. “I’ve never encountered any poison oak,” says Ryan, “but the trail is very narrow and overgrown. You’re walking through a corridor of greenery.” The last half-mile of the trail is via a signed spur path, off the Coast Trail. From the spur, it’s a little difficult to handle. You’ll need to get down to Alamere Creek, but the trail to it is steep. Some parts of the path are only two feet wide. From there, cross Alamere Creek, which, during times of high water, can be tricky. From the top of the cliff, some daredevils scramble down the eroding, crumbling, rockface, which has become increasingly dangerous, to the beach. “You have to be careful because it’s steep,” says Ryan. Suggests the Bay Area Hiker (bahiker.com) site: “Carefully cross over the water at the top of the second drop, and you’ll reach a flat, where you can follow the water to the main drop at the coast’s edge … If you want to continue to the beach, walk from the top of the main waterfall where it spills onto the beach, north and slightly away from the cliff edge, to an obvious but unsigned, well-worn descending path. The first drop is an easy, stairstep-like descent down bare rock.” The last 20 feet are said to be tough because of loose rock. Falling can be easy and there are almost no reliable handholds to grip. “You have to almost go down on your butt,” says Ryan. At the beach, walk south for the best view of the waterfalls. To return, retrace your steps.

Fern Grove — not to be confused with (Sigmund) Stern Grove, on the edge of San Francisco’s Sunset District — is said to be just north of Starlight Meadow. Take Highway 1 past the pullover for Starlight, then look for the start of the Randall Trail. If you reach Fivebrooks on Highway 1 and still haven’t seen it, turn around; the trail is about 2.5 miles south. Take the path uphill until you see the meadow.

Inkwell Spillways is across the road from the Inkwell (see above). At Shafer Bridge, look for two dirt roads on the left. Park past the bridge and walk back to the dirt roads. Follow the easternmost one, along the creek, for a half mile. When the road turns left, climbing toward the dam at Kent Lake, stay on the trail along the creek.

The beach:

Alamere Falls: Alamere Creek is the source of three small falls and a large one that empty into the Pacific Ocean. “All of them are spectacular, but access to them is not easy, requiring a hike down very steep and treacherous trails,” reports the Frisky Banner, a local naturism newsletter. “The worst and most dangerous is the last trail that leads directly to the beach. Two men in our group took that trail, and the rest of us stayed near the smaller falls. I was envious looking at the two guys running around naked under the big falls. I took a picture of them from above and even then had my stomach in my throat.” Inkwell Spillways: “You’ll come to a pool at the base of the spillways,” says Robert Carlsen. “There’s an outlet from a pumping station that’s nice to sit at, plus some big rocks that feel great after swimming.

See photos of Alamere here

The crowd:

Only occasional use is reported, the most popular site being Alamere Falls. On summer weekends, “you’ll usually see 20-40 people” walking on the trail and gathering at the top of the waterfalls, according to Ryan. “But because you have to go down on your butt, most people chicken out of going down to the beach. There might be two or three persons there.”

Problems:

Poison oak; dangerous hiking conditions near the beach on the trail to Alamere.

Labor widens and radicalizes its SF hotel fight

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January 4, 2010

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By Steven T. Jones

After a three-week break in their ever-escalating labor battle with the owners of San Francisco’s biggest hotels, Unite-Here Local 2 workers and their supporters plan to hit hard tomorrow (Tuesday, Jan. 5) with a rally featuring national labor leaders, an expansion of the union’s hotel boycott, and civil disobedience.

The action begins at 4 p.m. at 750 Market Street, in the plaza between between 3rd and 4th streets, forming into a march to O’Farrell Street outside the Hilton, which will be the latest hotel to be added to the union’s boycott list. The others are Le Meridien, Hyatt Fisherman’s Wharf, Grand Hyatt, Westin St. Francis, Palace Hotel, and the W Hotel.

The big national hotel chains have claimed the recession and high health care costs are forcing them to reject union demands for a 1.5 percent increase in worker pay, but the union calls that ridiculous, noting that Starwood Hotels and Resorts – which owns more than half the hotels on the boycott list – made $180 million in profit in the first three quarters of 2009 and saw their stock price increase 66 percent.

Supporting the union tomorrow will be local progressive groups as well as Unite-Here’s national president John Wilhelm and AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, both of whom will speak at the rally. In addition, organizers say about 100 workers will engage in civil disobedience and face arrest.

Bolinas Beach

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January 4, 2010

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Rating: B

While Bolinas Beach has had a past history of clothing-optional use, most of it has died out. But a few bare body enthusiasts still sunbathe in the more isolated nooks and crannies of sand on the north end of the rocky shoreline. Please use this area with caution: though there haven’t been any reports of problems recently, Bolinas has an antinudity law and it’s mostly a nonnude setting of families, dogwalkers and just offshore, plenty of kayakers. And the area can be windy.

Legal status:

Part of the land is private property facing homes. Bolinas’s antinudity ordinance includes fines of up to $50 and/or a month in jail for first-time violations.

How to find it:

Starting in Stinson Beach, take Highway 1 (also known there as Shoreline Highway) north toward Calle Del Mar 4.5 miles. Bear left on Olema Bolinas Road. Follow it two miles through Bolinas, and park in town or on Ocean Parkway Avenue, which parallels the beach. Walk until you find a spot with enough sand and privacy.

The beach:

Somewhat sheltered from the wind by cliffs, Bolinas is wider than some of the nude beaches on our list but narrows as you walk farther away from the parking area. The best sand is near the cliffs. Otherwise, expect a fairly rocky shoreline.

The crowd:

On hot summer days families, out-of-towners, and suited sunbathers mingle with local naturists and kayakers. This is also a dog beach.

Problems:

Local residents sometimes distrust outsiders; not enough sand; undertow; frequent wind; cold water; and poor swimming conditions.