Tunitas Creek Beach - Plein Air

Plein Air Painting at Tunitas Creek Beach
This week we're heading to Tunitas Creek Beach, just south of Half Moon Bay, for a morning of painting along the beautiful San Mateo County coastline!
The newly opened Don Horsley County Park provides access to some spectacular coastal scenery, including dramatic cliffs, ocean views, coastal vegetation, and the creek where it meets the Pacific. There are plenty of opportunities for interesting compositions, whether you prefer sweeping landscapes, crashing waves, or smaller studies of the surrounding natural environment.
The park features blufftop overlooks and walking trails, so you can explore a little and find a spot that inspires you. I'm particularly interested in painting from the overlooks, where we can capture the coastline without having to carry all our gear down to the beach.

Event Schedule

9:30 AM – Meet & Set Up: Meet at the Don Horsley County Park parking lot. We'll say hello, get organized, and head out to find our painting spots.
9:30 AM–12:00 PM – Plein Air Painting: Explore the blufftop overlooks and surrounding scenery, find a composition that inspires you, and enjoy a morning of creating art.
12:00–12:30 PM – Show & Tell: We'll gather back at our meeting spot to share what we've created. It's a chance to see everyone's work, exchange ideas, and talk about our experiences.
12:30 PM – Wrap Up: Pack up and head out. You're welcome to stay longer and continue painting on your own.

Please plan to return to our meeting spot by noon for show and tell. Everyone is welcome to participate, whether your artwork is finished or still a work in progress!
Parking and Access

Parking: Free, with a designated parking lot.
Admission: Free.
Restrooms: Available at the park.
Walking: An accessible trail leads from the parking area toward the blufftop overlooks.
Weather: Coastal mornings can be foggy, cool, and windy, so bring layers and be prepared for changing conditions.

For more information, including directions and park details, visit:
https://www.smcgov.org/parks/don-horsley-park-tunitas-creek-beach
What to Bring
Our Saturday morning meetups are primarily focused on plein-air painting, but all forms of art are welcome! Whether you paint, draw, sketch, or work in another medium, bring whatever you enjoy creating with.
If you're planning to paint, here are a few recommendations:

Art supplies: Bring everything you need for your medium, including paints, surfaces, brushes, and cleaning supplies. Beginners are always welcome! If you're unsure what to bring or how to get started, post a question in the comments or send me a message through Meetup.
Easel: If you're painting, please bring your own easel. For this location, I'd recommend something sturdy enough to handle a little coastal wind.
Outdoor clothing: We'll be outside for about three hours, so dress in layers and bring a hat, sunscreen, and a windbreaker.
Food and drinks: There aren't food or drink vendors at the park, so bring whatever you'll need.
Seating: If you prefer to sit while creating art, bring a portable chair or stool. There may not be seating near your preferred painting spot.

A helpful tip: Try setting up to paint in your own yard for three hours. If you have everything you need to create art comfortably at home, you'll probably have everything you need for one of our outings!
A Few Things to Keep in Mind

Expect curious visitors! We usually paint in public places, and people will occasionally stop to see what we're creating. Most offer a compliment and move along, while others might stop for a quick conversation. It took me a little getting used to, but it's become one of my favorite parts of painting outdoors. Please don't scare anyone away! :)
Respect park rules. Observe all posted signs, especially those marking restricted areas and coastal restoration areas.
Keep pathways clear. Stay on designated paths and avoid blocking access for other visitors.
Be mindful of the cliffs. Stay behind barriers and away from unstable bluff edges.
Dispose of painting fluids properly. Take all painting liquids, including dirty watercolor water, home for disposal. Never empty them in the park.
Leave no trace. Please take all your trash and supplies with you when you leave.

Looking forward to seeing everyone and spending another creative Saturday morning outdoors!
Stay Connected with South Bay Art
Check out our social media and join our Discord server to share artwork, connect with other artists, and keep the creativity going between events!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/131295087508526
Instagram: @southbayart
Discord: https://discord.gg/QbMkUNfWSn