Thornton State Beach (US-3577) is one of those places that feels like a secret hideaway. Perched on the cliffs of Daly City, it’s a rugged slice of California coastline with a rich history and endless views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s also an incredible spot for a Parks on the Air (POTA) activation—especially if you like running QRP or operating CW.

A Glimpse into Thornton’s History

Thornton State Beach has seen its fair share of change. Originally part of an 1800s Mexican land grant, the park’s cliffs have slowly given way to the ocean over the decades. Today, it’s preserved as a quiet retreat, free of crowds and distractions. The simplicity of this park makes it a perfect match for a lightweight CW setup.

The Activation

I packed my MTR-4B, a 20m dipole, and a 5200 mAh 3S battery (plus a backup Xiegu X5105) — everything I needed for a minimalist activation. After a short hike up to the bluffs, I set up the dipole on a Spiderbeam mast. The waves, para-gliders and wide-open sky set the scene for a nice activation.

I did a lot of local reconnassaince, down to the beach and back, and I discovered there’s a great place that’s a short hike South of the parking area with almost no foot traffic and a few marker poles that make great places to tie masts.

Calling CQ on 20m quickly drew responses. Hunters from across the country were coming in strong, thanks to the saltwater-enhanced ground plane. I even managed a couple of Canadian and Latin America contacts before wrapping up. The MTR-4B’s low power didn’t stop it from making plenty of noise on the bands.

Thornton: A Perfect Spot for CW

Thornton State Beach is a place where simplicity shines. The untouched beauty of the cliffs, the sound of the ocean, and the low noise floor make it a fantastic destination for any op. Whether you’re chasing DX or just enjoying a day out with your radio, this park has it all.

If you’re in the area, pack your gear, hit the trail, and get on the air.

72 and happy activating.

– NU6W