Sandholdt Beach Castroville, CA 95012

"Park on the inland side of the dunes with a view of the Salinas River. An easy short walk up the sand trail takes you to a panoramic view of the ocean and an endless beach. No camping, fires or dogs on the beach as posted. Portable toilets are workable. Not posted 'no overnight parking' but I suspect you'd get run out if you tried. EDIT Checked again and hours are posted sunup to sundown. We're staying at the KOA Express less than 1/4 mile away. Not cheap but very nice."

"Dogs are not permitted on this beach (officially this is Salinas River State Beach) in order to protect nesting, feeding and resting sites for federally listed threatened Western Snowy Plover (this beach is a critical part of their limited nesting habitat). However dogs ARE permitted on the path along the river (behind you as you're approaching the beach), and there is a VERY dog-friendly beach very close by, behind Phil's Fish Market and MBARI (poop bags are provided, and it seems to be fine to let dogs run offleash). Parking for the dog-friendly beach is along Sandholdt Road, and access is via the foot path immediately south of the Phil's parking lot. That foot path is called "Whale Way" on google maps. Thanks for helping to protect fragile bird populations!"

"Nice beach to relax on enjoying the views and sounds of the ocean"

"Cool backwater slough as a nature preserve. Safety area for plants and animals to protect as a breeder water shed area. Nice to see the city take care of such a fragile ecosystem and still blend day use for people. Thank you for caring"

"Super nice beach! This is our favorite in the area."