Location
United States
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Adults only
Terrain
Mixed
Best season
September to October
About Red Rock Beach
Red Rock Beach, also called Mickey's Beach by some locals, is a small cove below the cliffs of Mount Tamalpais State Park on the Marin County coast, about a mile south of Stinson Beach off Highway 1. The beach is a short strip of coarse sand and rocks at the foot of steep, crumbling bluffs, and it has been a clothing-optional spot for decades, used mainly by Bay Area regulars. Because the only way down is a steep trail from the highway, it draws far smaller crowds than Stinson Beach itself. The beach shrinks a lot at high tide and with winter swells, so the usable space can be very limited; check tide tables before going. The Pacific here is cold, with strong surf and currents. There are no facilities of any kind. It is a place for experienced, self-sufficient beachgoers rather than a casual first nude beach outing.
Getting there
Drive Highway 1 north from Muir Beach (about 5.6 miles) or south from Stinson Beach (about 1 mile) to milepost 11.3, where dirt pull-out lots sit on both sides of the road; more limited parking is about 150 yards south. If you reach Stinson, you have gone too far. From the lot, a steep, winding trail roughly 3-5 feet wide drops to the beach, with a loose, crumbly last section. Allow 10-15 minutes down and more coming up. Wear real shoes, carry water, and do not attempt it with limited mobility. No public transport stops here.
What visitors say
Visitors describe a quiet, scenic cove with a loyal local crowd, and value it as less busy than other Bay Area nude beaches. The trail is the main talking point: steep, eroded and tiring on the way back up. Several guides warn that the beach nearly disappears at high tide and that the water is cold and rough. It is generally described as better suited to experienced beachgoers than first-timers, with no shade or services.
Summarised in our own words from public reviews and guides listed under Sources.
Amenities
Legal context
The beach is within Mount Tamalpais State Park, where California State Parks rules allow rangers to cite nudity in areas not formally authorised. In practice Red Rock has long been tolerated; a 2011 report quoted rangers saying it isn't legal but that they mostly just looked.
Naturism at Red Rock Beach sits under United States's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: United States public nudity guide.
Researched 24 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 37.8869, -122.6456
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in United States
Frequently asked questions
Is nudity legal at Red Rock Beach?
Not officially; it is in a state park where nudity can be cited, but it has long been tolerated.
How do I find it?
Look for the dirt lots at Highway 1 milepost 11.3, about a mile south of Stinson Beach, and take the steep trail down.
Is it suitable for beginners or families?
Guides recommend it more for experienced beachgoers because of the steep trail and small, tide-dependent beach.
When should I go?
On a warm day at low or falling tide; September and October often have the clearest coastal weather.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
Members’ reviews
Write a review →Loading member reviews…