![]() Additional closures may be implemented if elephant seals haul out on beaches outside of these areas or outside of these dates. Real Secret Beach is hidden when the tide comes in, so visitors should use caution.From December 15 to March 31, to better protect elephant seals from disturbance, especially during the pupping season when they are exceptionally vulnerable, the park implements closures along beaches near the Point Reyes Headlands. To the north is an arched tunnel that leads to what is called Real Secret Beach. The arch is at the south end of the beach. Located north of Arch Rock, Kelham Beach is a 4.8-mile hike from its Bear Valley trailhead. Low tide is the best time to visit the beach both for the rocks and for tide pools. During the winter when streams are flowing, water crosses the sand in a couple of places, making for wet fords for those coming along the beach. Visitors must make a 2 mile stroll from Limantour Beach or Laguna Ranch to reach Sculptured Beach. Sculptured rocks along the shore give the beach its name. Rogue waves and rising tides can suddenly engulf a rock that had appeared to be out of reach of the surf. Although the rocky coast here is tempting to explore, it is fraught with danger. Tucked up against the cliffs at the northern end of the National Seashore, McClures Beach usually thrills visitors with its huge, crashing waves. Most of the beaches in the southern part of the National Seashore are only accessible on foot or by boat. Point Reyes is crisscrossed by trails, too many to be displayed on our map. A picnic area makes a good place for an outdoor meal. Sand stretches away in either direction from the parking lot. Cliffs of white sandstone rise behind the beach. With parking close to the beach and amenities such as a visitor center, a cafe, restrooms, and outdoor showers, Drakes Beach is one of the most popular in the park. ![]() At those times people and dogs are restricted from that area. During the winter elephant seals come ashore south of the south beach access. Dogs on leash are permitted on the beach, but not north of the north entrance. ![]() Restrooms are available at both the north and the south parking areas. Walking the beach, photography, wildlife viewing, and picnicking are favorite activities on these beaches. Visitors are cautioned to always keep an eye on the ocean and to stay well back from the surf. ![]() Rogue waves, or sneaker waves as they are often called, are a particular hazard. ![]() Huge waves crash ashore all along Point Reyes Beach. The immense beach extends for 11 miles along the Pacific Ocean side of Point Reyes National Seashore. At the other end of the beach the area is protected as a habitat for snowy plover and harbor seals.Īlso known as The Great Beach, Point Reyes Beach can be accessed by car in two places off Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. Dogs on leash are permitted on the southeast end of the beach. The beach is favored for picnicking since it is protected from the wind. Swimming is possible in the chilly water. Harbor seals are common visitors to the area. In the spring Gray Whales are often sighted close to shore. Visitors are rewarded with an abundance of shorebirds and other wildlife. A long, narrow spit of stand stretches out to the mouth of Drakes Estuary. Limantour Beach is easily accessed by car. ![]()
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