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United States
California
Santa Cruz County
Davenport

Shark Fin Cove – Davenport Pier Overlook loop from Davenport

Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
United States
California
Santa Cruz County
Davenport

Shark Fin Cove – Davenport Pier Overlook loop from Davenport

Easy

3.0

(8)

70

hikers

Shark Fin Cove – Davenport Pier Overlook loop from Davenport

01:49

6.86km

70m

Hiking

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: May 18, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

1

18 m

Williams' Landing

Highlight • Beach

The old historic landing has all but disappeared, but across from the Bonny Doon Road intersection with Hwy 1 a short trail crosses the abandoned railway line to a spectacular beach

Tip by

2

747 m

The clifftop trail can be severely overgrown by grass in spring and is best negotiated by mountain bike. However, the views of the rocky coastline and iconic tall rock islands …

Tip by

3

1.20 km

Shark Fin Cove

Highlight • Beach

This place is named after an impressive rock formation that resembles a shark fin emerging from the ocean. It offers truly breathtaking views of the rock formations, beach, and the ocean.

Tip by

4

3.26 km

Davenport Pier Overlook

Highlight • Viewpoint

Spectacular view from high above the cliffs looking down to the beach and the painted remains of the old pier.

Tip by

5

3.76 km

Davenport Cliffs

Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint

These stunning cliffs offer panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Davenport Beach below. While there is beach access, it can be treacherous, so it is recommended to enjoy the views from the safety of the cliffs.

Tip by

6

6.35 km

The Williams brothers bought a large piece of an old Spanish/Mexican Land grant in 1847 and over the next 10 years developed logging, saw mill, lime kiln, cattle and dairy …

Tip by

B

6.86 km

End point

Bus stop

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

4.03 km

2.83 km

Surfaces

6.18 km

569 m

< 100 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

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Weather

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Monday 13 July

21°C

14°C

-- %

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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

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Description

If you're looking for a coastal hike that packs a punch without demanding too much, the Shark Fin Cove – Davenport Pier Overlook loop from Davenport is an easy 4.3-mile (6.9 km) hiking route with 227 feet (69 metres) of climbing, taking about 1 hour and 49 minutes. This route offers a high-payoff experience for those seeking dramatic ocean views and unique geological features without a strenuous workout, though some sections require careful footing.

What to expect on Shark Fin Cove – Davenport Pier Overlook loop from Davenport

This route takes you along the rugged California coastline, offering a journey through diverse scenery. You'll encounter the iconic Shark Fin Rock, a distinctive formation at Shark Fin Cove, and can explore a sea cave at low tide if you're up for a short but steep, rocky descent. The trail then leads you towards the Davenport Pier Overlook, where you'll see the remnants of an old pier with concrete pilings and a popular swing. While the main loop along the bluffs is generally easy, reaching the beaches at either location involves very steep, unmaintained, and potentially slippery paths. This hike is best for those who appreciate dramatic coastal landscapes and are comfortable with varied terrain, especially if you plan to venture down to the sand.

Planning your visit

Planning your visit requires a few considerations to make the most of your trip. Amenities are minimal to non-existent, so pack out everything you pack in. Be aware of natural hazards like rip currents, unstable cliffs, and slippery rocks, especially if exploring the beaches. Checking tide schedules is crucial if you want to explore the sea cave at Shark Fin Cove or the beach at Davenport Pier Overlook. Parking is generally available near these popular viewpoints, but arriving earlier in the day can help ensure a spot.

Trail details

  • Distance: 4.3 miles (6.9 km)
  • Elevation gain: 227 feet (69 metres)
  • Difficulty: easy
  • Estimated time: 1 hours and 49 minutes

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