La Paz (the peace). Probably a peace arranged with the Indians, or it may have been named for La Paz in Lower California.
Pecho Rock, near San Luís Obispo. The reason for this name has not been discovered, but it may be a reference to the shape of the rock. Pecho means “breast.”
Pedernales (flints). See page [104].
Los Peñasquitos (the little cliffs), in San Diego County.
Peralta (a surname), that of a pioneer family.
Peras (pears) Creek, in Los Ángeles County.
Los Perros (the dogs), possibly Indian dogs.
Pescadero Point (fishing-place point). See page [231].
Petaluma. See page [261].
Picachos Mountains, a ridge east of San Francisco Bay. Pichacos are frequent, isolated, conical peaks.