Jade Cove

Jade Cove holds the only concentrated underwater deposit of high-grade nephrite jade in the world, and a few pieces wash onto the pebble beach. Access is a steep, rough scramble down from the Highway 1 pullouts, and the cove is more about drama and tide pools than sand. Collecting rules are specific, so check with the Forest Service before you pocket anything.

Good to know

• Wear proper shoes; the path down is steep and loose
• Go near low tide for the best beachcombing and never turn your back on the surf
• Little cell service, so tell someone where you are

Best time

Low tide, morning

Open

All year

Getting there

Highway 1 roadside pullouts, then a steep unmaintained path

Vehicles

Campervans fine

Data: Roadtrip. Things change: check opening times, prices and rules before you go.