Charming Little Town of Dillon's Beach - Located in California

Along US Hwy 101, north of San Francisco, California, is the charming little town of Dillon's Beach. It lies along the shore and up the rolling hills beside the Pacific Ocean. The small town is quaint, clean and friendly. Vacation homes and year-round residences line the narrow, winding streets. It isn't easy to find, the only turn-off being at Valley Ford, just one small sign along the highway.

The drive from Valley Ford to Dillon's Beach is through farming land, dotted with homes and beautiful scenery. The trip is slow and the road is both narrow and winding. White rail fences containing horses and cattle are very picturesque. Through a canyon, the road leads into the coastal foothills before dropping down into the town itself and the first view of the ocean.

On the main road is a small store, selling souvenirs and some groceries. You can buy seashell jewelry, polished shells, and shot glasses, among other novelties. The food and liquor goods are more expensive than you would find at a supermarket, but the drive to the nearest town big enough to have a major store chain is quite a long ways off. So be sure to stock up on any necessities if you plan to spend much time there.

At the north edge of town is the beach, itself. A beautiful wide strip of clean sand, washed by the Pacific waves. There are picnic tables and "porta-potties" for the comfort and convenience of visitors. At the water's edge, you can find seaweed, shells and all the other flotsam the beach should contain. From time to time, the jellyfish wash up, sometimes by the dozens. Don't touch them! Even dead, they can give a painful sting.

The ocean breeze brings fog, both morning and evening, cloaking the small town is a frothy white blanket. As it recedes back to the sea, it creates a color band between the blue water and the blue sky that is quite stunning. In the distance, you can see fishing trawlers, sail boats, and even luxury yachts and ocean liners as they travel up and down the coast. The beach is quiet and peaceful, just right for enjoying the ocean views. You can fish in the surf or check out the marina for a more aquatic experience.

Dillon's Beach at night is quite a sight! The yellow street lamps and white house lights dot the steep hills and provide a perfect contrast to the sparkling moonlit waters.

If you're looking for a great place to have a picnic or just enjoy the ambience of a small fishing village, Dillon's Beach is an excellent choice. It's all outdoor fun, though. There are no "hot spots" for adult evening entertainment.