[5][6][7][8] The first European land exploration of Alta California, the Spanish Portolà expedition, passed through the area on its way north, camping just south of the harbor on October 28, 1769.

By 1859 part of the area was owned by James G. Denniston, a California state assemblyman who represented San Mateo County.

[10] He built a deep-water landing at Pillar Point which for many years was a key port for lumber, produce and other material destined for San Francisco.

The ship Rydal Hall was wrecked in October 1876 near Pillar Point while carrying coal destined for San Francisco.

For almost twenty years (1978–1996) the Harbor Master, Robert McMahon and his various crews, achieved recognition from the Coast Guard for being the first responders and saving hundreds of lives.