Visit Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes is one of the most dramatic stretches of coastline in North America. A triangular peninsula jutting into the Pacific, it sits on its own tectonic plate — literally separated from the rest of California by the San Andreas Fault. Within its 71,000 acres you'll find windswept beaches, dense forests, open grasslands, a historic lighthouse, and herds of tule elk. All of this lies just 90 minutes north of San Francisco.

Things to Do

Point Reyes Lighthouse

Perched at the tip of the peninsula, the historic lighthouse sits at the bottom of 313 steps carved into the cliff face. On clear days the views are extraordinary; during whale migration season (December–April), this is one of the best whale-watching spots on the West Coast.

Beaches

• Drakes Beach — Sheltered white cliffs and calm water, with a visitor center and café
• Limantour Beach — A long, wild beach backed by dunes, popular with hikers
• Kehoe Beach — Wildflower-lined trail leads to a remote stretch of sand
• Sculptured Beach — Accessible only at low tide, with dramatic rock formations

Tule Elk Preserve

The Tomales Point Trail winds through the elk preserve at the northern tip of the peninsula. Herds of tule elk graze on the open headlands with views of Tomales Bay and Bodega Bay. The 9.4-mile round trip is one of the best hikes in the park.

Hiking

Over 150 miles of trails cross the seashore, from gentle coastal walks to strenuous ridgeline hikes. Bear Valley Trail, Alamere Falls, and the Coast Trail to Wildcat Camp are among the most popular routes.

Lodging

• Olema House — Boutique hotel at the gateway to Point Reyes with a garden restaurant and craft cocktails
• Point Reyes Station Inn — Cozy bed-and-breakfast in the heart of the village
• Cottages at Point Reyes Seashore — Vacation rentals ranging from rustic cabins to modern cottages
• HI Point Reyes Hostel — Budget-friendly option in a ranch setting, within walking distance of Limantour Beach

Dining

• Saltwater Oyster Depot — Locally harvested oysters and seafood in Inverness
• Station House Café — A Point Reyes Station institution serving farm-to-table California cuisine
• Bovine Bakery — Pastries, coffee, and the famous bear claw that draws a line out the door
• Sir and Star — Refined, farm-driven tasting menus in the historic Olema Inn

Shopping

• Toby's Feed Barn — Art gallery, live music venue, and community gathering space in a converted feed barn
• Point Reyes Books — Independent bookstore with a focus on natural history and local authors
• Palace Market — The community grocery store, deli, and local information hub

Getting There

From San Francisco, take Highway 101 north to Sir Francis Drake Boulevard west. The drive through the hills of Marin to Point Reyes Station takes about 90 minutes depending on traffic. No public transit reaches the seashore — a car is essential.

Experience the wildest coast within reach of the Bay Area.