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PRESS RELEASE. From San Mateo County Parks on August 25th, 2025.
Bay Nature article “The Hidden Lives of Yellow Jackets“.
Due to recent mild weather, visitors to many San Mateo County Parks, including Memorial Park, Junipero Serra Park, Huddart Park, San Pedro Valley Park, and Pillar Point Bluff may notice an increase in the number of yellow and black wasps known as yellowjackets. Parks staff are working to identify and mark nests and coordinate with pest control to reduce the population.
For your safety:
- Do not disturb yellowjacket nests (if you squish them they release a pheromone that calls for help).
- Don’t swat at yellowjackets.
- Cover sweet drinks with lids
- Keep garbage away from eating areas.
- Inspect food before eating when dining outside.
- Avoid going barefoot outdoors.
If you are stung by a yellowjacket, monitor your body’s reaction. Seek medical attention if needed, especially if you have swelling, trouble breathing, or other signs of an allergic reaction.
Pillar Point Bluff offers hikers, joggers, bicyclists, and dog-walkers a chance to take in the breathtaking sights and sounds of the Pacific Ocean. The 220-acre bluff top includes a section of the California Coastal Trail and offers views of Half Moon Bay and Pillar Point Harbor, agricultural lands and the world famous Mavericks surf break. The surf break is located approximately half a mile off shore due west from the Pillar Point Air Force Tracking station and is best viewed with binoculars. Ross’s Cove, the beach below the bluff, is part of the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve Fitzgerald and is located within the Montara State Marine Reserve. It has been designated as a Marine Protected Area which is the highest level of protection.
Jean Lauer Trail
Jean Lauer Trail wanders the windswept heights of Pillar Point Bluff. It is an dirt-packed trail which connects the Pillar Point Bluff parking lot and Bernal Ave and is open to hikers, joggers, bicyclists, equestrians, and dogs on leash. Read more
Facilities
Pillar Point Bluff has a 10-car parking lot located on Airport Street. The lot has 1 ADA parking stall and a single stall ADA restroom. Trash/ recycling containers and a kiosk with a park map are also located at the parking lot. Two additional trail heads to this property are located in the Seal Cove neighborhood at Ocean and Bernal, and Alvarado and Bernal.
History
The bluff property was historically used for grazing. When the San Mateo County adopted the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve Master Plan in 2004 it had identified these lands for acquisition. Peninsula Open Space Trust subsequently secured the parcels in the area and made initial public access improvements including building a parking lot, restroom, and the Jean Lauer Trail. San Mateo County Parks Department acquired Pillar Point Bluff with a grant from the Wildlife Conservation Board as an addition to Fitzgerald Marine Reserve in 2011.
Yellowjackets are the common name for several different species of wasps indigenous to the state of California. Some species found at county parks are considered pests, favoring picnic areas, garbage cans and refreshment stands. Yellowjackets live in colonies ruled by a single queen. They sometimes attach their nests to trees, shrubs, or buildings though native pest species tend to construct their nests underground. Yellowjackets are attracted to sweet foods such as honey, candy, fruits, and soft drinks. In addition, the common pest species collect around red meats, chicken and fish. Yellowjackets can defend themselves by delivering a painful sting which may cause swelling and itching. Certain people allergic to yellowjackets can encounter serious medical complications from a single sting. If you are stung by a yellowjacket:
- Remove the stinger, if left in your skin, by scraping from the side with your fingernail.
- Apply cold water or ice in a wet cloth.
- Lie down if you feel faint or dizzy.
- Lower the stung arm or leg.
- Do not consume alcohol.
- If allergic to yellowjacket venom seek medical attention immediately.
Make sure your visit to San Mateo County Parks is a fun and safe one by preparing yourself. Bring a cell phone to use in case you need help (also recognize that not all park areas have cell phone reception). Check the weather ahead of time and make sure you wear the right clothes. If you’re going to hike, get an idea of your route ahead of time by consulting the trails section of this web site, or the maps in park brochures. Bring footwear to match the terrain.
Keep in mind that you are a guest of the many plants and animals that call San Mateo County Parks their home. Remember the golden rule: Leave the plants and animals alone and they will leave you alone. Below are some natural features found in our parks. Educate yourself and take the necessary steps to avoid danger to yourself or our local wildlife. If you have an emergency, call 9-1-1 for assistance.
Author: mdrag
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