There’s something about Alamere Falls that keeps calling me back. Maybe it’s the stunning coastal views, the rugged beauty of the trail, or the sheer magic of watching a waterfall cascade directly onto the beach. Whatever the reason, I’ve hiked this trail four or five times, and each time, it’s been a completely unique and unforgettable experience.

This time, we set out from San Francisco early in the morning, aiming to beat the crowds and make the most of our adventure. With backpacks filled with snacks, water, and a packed lunch for a beachside picnic, we made our way to the Palomarin Trailhead, the gateway to one of Northern California’s most breathtaking hikes.

The Journey Begins: Hiking the Coast Trail

The trailhead at Palomarin is a popular starting point for Alamere Falls, and for good reason – it offers a scenic, well-maintained route that winds through lush coastal scrub, eucalyptus groves, and alongside serene freshwater lakes. The first few miles of the Coast Trail are relatively easy, with gentle inclines and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean peeking through the trees.

With the morning sun casting golden light over the landscape, we settled into a steady rhythm, passing Bass Lake and Pelican Lake along the way. These hidden gems offer a peaceful contrast to the rugged cliffs and crashing waves beyond, and on warmer days, Bass Lake is even a popular spot for a refreshing swim. But we had our eyes set on a different destination-the falls.

Taking the Hidden Shortcut

Most hikers stick to the official trail, a longer route that requires turning off at Wildcat Campground before reaching the beach. But there’s a lesser-known path- a hidden shortcut that dramatically cuts down the mileage and leads directly to Alamere Falls. Having taken this route before, I knew exactly where to look.

About 4 miles in, there’s an unmarked but well-worn path veering off the main Coast Trail to the left. Sometimes its marked with a stack of rocks but it will be a tall and narrow path like you are walking through a corn maze. Highly recommend taking the shortcut it’s a game-changer.

Scrambling down the rocky section near the bottom, we finally emerged onto a breathtaking view- there it was, Alamere Falls in all its glory. The sight never gets old.

Alamere Falls: A One-of-a-Kind Natural Wonder

Alamere Falls is one of only a handful of tidefalls in North America, meaning it flows directly onto the beach before spilling into the ocean. The combination of a cascading waterfall, dramatic cliffs, and the endless stretch of sand and sea creates a truly surreal landscape. It’s the kind of place that feels like it belongs in a postcard or a dream.

After taking in the view from above, we carefully made our way down to the beach. This final descent is tricky, requiring a bit of rock scrambling, but the reward at the bottom is worth every careful step. Scrambling down the rocky section near the bottom, we finally emerged onto a breathtaking view- Alamere Falls. The sight never gets old. As we stood on the sand, watching the freshwater stream carve a path through the sand before disappearing into the waves, we felt a deep sense of awe and appreciation for nature’s raw beauty.

A Beachside Picnic and Time to Soak It All In

One of my favorite traditions on this hike is bringing a packed lunch to enjoy on the beach, and this trip was no exception. We found a perfect spot on the sand, just far enough from the falls to stay dry but close enough to enjoy the sound of rushing water. Out came the sandwiches, fruit, and snacks we had packed, and we settled in for a well-earned feast.

There’s something about eating a meal outdoors, especially in a setting like this, that makes everything taste better. As we sipped from our water bottles and took in the stunning surroundings, we reflected on how lucky we were to experience such a place. The ocean breeze, the mist from the falls, the calls of seabirds- it was a perfect moment of peace and gratitude.

The Hike Back

After spending a good amount of time soaking in the views and enjoying our picnic, we knew it was time to head back. Climbing back up the rocky scramble required some patience, but once we were back on the Coast Trail, the return journey felt faster. Maybe it was the post-lunch energy boost, or maybe it was just the anticipation of reliving the hike in our memories.

By the time we reached the Palomarin Trailhead again, our legs were tired but our hearts were full. Alamere Falls had once again delivered an unforgettable experience, and even though I’ve done this hike multiple times, I know I’ll be back again.

Catching the Sunset: A Perfect Ending

Just when we thought the day couldn’t get any better, the setting sun painted the sky in brilliant hues of orange, pink, and purple. As we made our way back toward San Francisco, we pulled over at a scenic overlook along Highway 1, taking in the breathtaking view of the sun dipping into the Pacific. The waves shimmered in the golden light, and the cool ocean breeze wrapped around us like a perfect farewell to an incredible adventure. It was the kind of moment that reminds you why you chase experiences like these- because sometimes, nature gifts you an ending even more beautiful than you could have imagined.

Tips for Hiking Alamere Falls via the Shortcut

If you’re planning on taking this hike, here are a few key tips to keep in mind:

1. Start Early – Parking at Palomarin Trailhead fills up fast, especially on weekends. Arriving early ensures you get a spot and enjoy the trail with fewer people.
2. Pack Plenty of Water and Snacks – The hike is long and can be strenuous, so stay hydrated and fueled.
3. Wear Good Hiking Shoes – The shortcut is steep and can be slippery, so proper footwear with good grip is essential.
4. Be Prepared for Rock Scrambling – The final descent to the beach requires careful navigation over rocks. Take your time and watch your footing.
5. Check the Tide Schedule – Alamere Falls flows directly onto the beach, and high tide can make access more difficult or even dangerous.
6. Leave No Trace – This is a protected area, so be sure to pack out everything you bring in and respect the natural beauty of the trail.

Hiking to Alamere Falls via the Coast Trail and the hidden shortcut is an adventure I never tire of. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, the experience is always breathtaking, rewarding, and uniquely unforgettable. If you’re looking for a hike that combines coastal beauty, an epic waterfall, and a touch of adventure, this one should be at the top of your list.

So pack your lunch, lace up your hiking boots, and set out on a journey to one of California’s most stunning natural wonders.

Trust me, you won’t regret it.