Cypress Tree Tunnels at Moss Beach

The Cypress Tree Tunnels are a quick jaunt from San Francisco (22 miles) and make for a great half-day trip. Getting here depends on traffic, but 30 minutes from the center of the city is doable. Parking is relatively easy. You can either park at the south end of the area at the Cypress Cove entrance (off of Cypress Ave & Beach Way) or north end at the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve Parking area. Each allows for a quick walk up to the Cypress Tunnels.

From the Cypress Cove entrance you’ll walk about 100 yards before you encounter the cypress tunnels. There are two sides of cypress trees, creating a horseshoe-like trail of cypress overhangs. In total the horseshoe trail is about a ½ mile walk through the overhangs. At the north end of the area is an outlook over the bluffs. Here you can see the coast far into the distance and on most days a herd of seals sunbathing on the beach below. There are plenty of signs warning you about the sheer cliffs along bluffs so don’t get too close.

Depending on the time of the day and current weather, the cypress tunnels can give display a number of different views. Exploring these during a period of fog can elicit an eerie almost spooky feeling whereas exploring these during sunset can give you a feeling of tranquility with the colors and light beams shining through the cypress trees. While the hike and path are particularly short, it packs a punch for the number photo opportunities and fascinating nature of the area.

After exploring, hit up Moss Beach Distillery for an adult beverage or two. Also, depending on your the amount of time you'd like to spend, you could extend your journey onto Pillar Point Bluffs and to Mavericks Beach as well. Both are within walking distance.