From Biodiversity to Beach Access: POST Acts to Protect Iconic San Gregorio Ranch

This week, POST shared a major update on our quest to safeguard a scenic, environmentally significant oceanfront property. We are under contract to acquire and protect the 195-acre San Gregorio Ranch for $10 million, and I’m so excited and honored for POST to take on this project. It will be at least a year before the transaction closes — we’re estimating May 2026. Now, we’re seeking to raise $14 million to secure this coastal gem and create a stewardship and public access fund.

The History of San Gregorio Ranch

Located at Highway 1 and Highway 84, San Gregorio Ranch boasts sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and miles of coastline from the top of the bluffs. In 1996, the property’s owner donated a conservation easement to POST. They wanted to protect the area’s natural, scenic, historic, open space, and recreational values, and we hope to put this plan in motion for the benefit of people and wildlife alike.

Not only is this a stunning property, beloved by the community who frequent the beach, it’s also home to important native grassland habitat. It is a great example of a multi-benefit landscape that will provide people and nature with so much in the decades to come. Purchasing it outright means that POST can protect it from development and ensure continuous, safe public access. It also means that this sensitive landscape will be cared for so that all can experience the beauty and wonder of San Mateo County’s coast.

In recent decades, beachgoers have used the flat bluff top for parking as part of limited public beach access via the privately owned property. Over time, San Gregorio Ranch has become one of California’s oldest and best-known clothing-optional beaches. It is an important part of Bay Area LGBTQ+ history and culture.

Environmental Treasures Abound

The topography of San Gregorio Ranch ranges from sea level to 500 feet of elevation and contains a mix of vegetation. Along the coast, it has one of the region’s most extensive stands of American dune grass (Elymus Mollis). This crucial native grass helps to stabilize the dunes and prevent beach erosion.

The property also features excellent habitat for numerous native species. These include California king snake, California red-legged frog, acorn woodpecker, American badger, California quail, and more. The eastern part of San Gregorio Ranch has supported a small grazing operation. We will explore the possibility of continued grazing for ecological benefits. The property borders the San Gregorio Creek watershed to the south, the second largest watershed along the San Mateo County coast. It offers critical habitat for several listed anadromous fish species—those who migrate from saltwater to freshwater to spawn. Moreover, state and federal agencies have prioritized protecting and restoring the area.

Opportunities for Safe Public Access

A recent study shows that the segment of Highway 1 near the property poses danger to pedestrians and cyclists. It has been the site of multiple fatalities within the last 10 years. The study also reveals no workable route for the California Coastal Trail (CCT) within the highway right-of-way or on adjacent public lands. Acquiring San Gregorio Ranch will create an opportunity to route the CCT through the property in the future. 

What’s Next?

Over the next year, POST will study the property’s species and habitats. We’ll also be able to develop both interim and long-term plans for land stewardship and public access. Since it’s so near San Gregorio State Beach, POST will explore the many opportunities for permanent stewardship of San Gregorio Ranch in the years ahead with state and local agencies.

More information is available here for those interested in contributing to POST’s fundraising efforts.

Support San Gregorio Ranch