TOP 30 Beach nature reserves in California

277 results found

Manchester Beach / Mendocino Coast KOA Journey is a picturesque campground located in Manchester, California, just a stone's throw away from the stunning Mendocino Coast. Set against a backdrop of lush forests and rolling hills, this RV park offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Guests can choose from a variety of lodging options, including RV sites, tent sites, and cozy cabins. The campground also features modern amenities such as a swimming pool, hot tub, and playground, making it the perfect destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Stinson Beach Parking is a convenient parking facility located at 43 Arenal Avenue in the beautiful coastal town of Stinson Beach, California. Whether you're visiting the beach for a day of sun and surf, exploring the nearby hiking trails, or simply enjoying the picturesque surroundings, our parking facility provides easy access to all that Stinson Beach has to offer. With ample parking spaces available, you can rest assured that your vehicle will be safe and secure while you enjoy your time in this idyllic seaside destination. Experience hassle-free parking at Stinson Beach Parking and make the most of your visit to this charming coastal town.

Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is a stunning natural park and tourist attraction located in Huntington Beach, California. This beautiful reserve is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the picturesque trails, observe wildlife in their natural habitat, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this coastal gem. With its prime location along California State Route 1, Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to birdwatch, hike, or simply relax in nature, this reserve is the perfect place to unwind and connect with the environment.

Huntington Beach Central Park West is a sprawling park located at 6741 Central Park Drive in Huntington Beach, California, United States. This beautiful green space offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors of all ages, including walking trails, playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. With its lush landscaping and serene atmosphere, Huntington Beach Central Park West is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're looking to relax with a book, play a game of soccer with friends, or simply take a leisurely stroll, this park has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of Huntington Beach Central Park West today.

Jug Handle Beach, located in Fort Bragg, California, is a must-visit park and tourist attraction on the rugged Mendocino Coast. The 2.5-mile Ecological Staircase Trail offers visitors a hike through half a million years of ecological history, showcasing wave-cut terraces and unique plant species. With a mild Mediterranean climate, the park is perfect for exploring year-round. Dogs are allowed on the beach and headland trails west of Highway 1, but not on Staircase Trail or areas east of the highway. The park offers easy and moderate hikes, wheelchair-accessible facilities, and stunning ocean views. Explore the unique geological features and diverse plant life at Jug Handle State Natural Reserve, a place where the coastal spectrum of ecological succession and landscape evolution is on full display. Visit this special place to witness the beauty of nature and the history of the land.

the rugged Mendocino Coast of California lies the Jug Handle State Natural Reserve, a park and tourist attraction that offers stunning ocean views, serene forests, and a journey through half a million years of ecological history. The 2.5-mile Ecological Staircase Trail explores three wave-cut terraces created by glaciers, rising seas, and tectonic plates, showcasing the evolution of geology, soils, and plants over time. Located halfway between Fort Bragg and Mendocino, the reserve stretches from the Pacific Ocean into Jackson Demonstration State Forest, offering a diverse landscape for visitors to explore. The park features a mild Mediterranean climate with winter rainfall and spring fog, making it an ideal destination year-round.

Moonstone Beach Park is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 5744 Moonstone Beach Drive in Cambria, California, United States. Our mission is to provide for the health, inspiration, and education of the people of California by preserving the state's extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation. We are proud to announce that we are taking actions to identify and redress discriminatory names of features attached to the state parks and transportation systems. This initiative reflects our commitment to equity, inclusion, and accountability, in line with Governor Gavin Newsom's values.

San Carpoforo Creek Beach is a stunning tourist attraction located in San Simeon, California, United States. This picturesque beach is known for its pristine sandy shores, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, and even surfing at this idyllic spot. The surrounding natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make San Carpoforo Creek Beach a perfect destination for relaxation and recreation. Whether you're looking for a quiet escape or an active day by the sea, this beach has something for everyone to enjoy.

The Coal Oil Point Reserve is a stunning coastal park and tourist attraction located on Slough Road in Isla Vista, California, United States. It is considered one of the best remaining examples of a coastal-strand environment in Southern California, and serves as a vital habitat for a wide variety of coastal and estuarine species. The reserve is dedicated to research and education, making it a valuable resource for scientists, students, and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore the diverse ecosystems within the reserve, including sandy beaches, wetlands, and dune habitats. With its beautiful scenery and important conservation efforts, the Coal Oil Point Reserve is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the natural wonders of the California coast.

Pacifica State Beach is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 5000 California 1 in Pacifica, California, United States. This crescent-shaped beach is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy the stunning coastline just south of San Francisco. The park is for day use only and closes at sundown, offering a peaceful retreat for beachgoers. Although online reservations are not available, California State Parks Backpacking Adventures offers naturalist-led backpacking trips through the Santa Cruz Mountains each summer, including a new "Cars-BA" trip to the Big Basin basecamp. Online registration opens on March 1 at 9am for those interested in exploring the area on foot.

Gold Bluffs Beach Campground is a picturesque camping destination located on Davison Rd in Orick, California. Situated within Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, this campground offers a unique experience surrounded by sandy beaches, open meadows, and towering coast redwood trees. Visitors can choose from campsites at Gold Bluffs Beach or Elk Prairie campground, with restrictions on trailer and motorhome sizes. While enjoying the natural beauty of the park, guests can explore 75 miles of hiking trails, a 19-mile bike loop, and scenic drives throughout the area.

Westport Beach RV Park and Campground is a charming seaside retreat located at 37700 California 1 in Westport, California. This beautiful institution offers a variety of accommodations including RV sites, tent camping, and cozy cabins. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, guests can enjoy beach access, stunning sunsets, and a peaceful atmosphere. The park also features amenities such as picnic areas, fire pits, and a convenience store. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Westport Beach RV Park and Campground is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Wright's Beach Campground is a picturesque camping destination located in Bodega Bay, California. Situated along the stunning Sonoma Coast State Park, this campground offers 27 developed campsites right next to the beach. Visitors can enjoy long sandy beaches, rugged headlands, and natural arches that make this area one of California's most scenic attractions. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance, with bookings based on availability and the park's maximum stay rules. Equestrian riders can access the Bodega Dunes trail system through the campground, and horses are allowed on specified beaches south of the Bodega Dunes day use ramp. Dogs are permitted on certain beaches, but not in specific campgrounds.

J V Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is a stunning coastal park located at 200 Nevada Avenue in Moss Beach, California, United States. This beautiful reserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore tide pools, sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and stunning ocean views. The park is home to a diverse array of marine life, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and families looking to enjoy a day by the sea. With its picturesque scenery and abundant wildlife, J V Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of the California coast.

Torrey Pines State Beach, located at 12600 North Torrey Pines Road in California, is a popular park and tourist attraction offering a wide sandy beach, perfect for swimming, surfing, and fishing. The beach stretches for 4 1/2 miles from Del Mar to Torrey Pines Mesa, with red-hued bluffs and wet sand making it ideal for strolling at low tide. Visitors can enjoy picnicking in the designated area near the entrance on North Torrey Pines Road, or access the beach via a trail from the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. To ensure safety, visitors are advised to time their beach visit for low tide when more sand is available between the cliffs and the waves. Rockslides and cliff collapses can occur without warning, so it's important to keep a minimum distance of 10 feet from the bluffs. Dogs are prohibited within the reserve and beach boundaries.

The Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve, located at 301 Caspian Way in Imperial Beach, California, is Southern California's largest coastal wetland. As one of 30 Reserves in the United States, we are dedicated to preserving, protecting, and managing the natural and cultural resources of the Tijuana River Estuary. Our goal is to create opportunities for education and research, while also promoting public access for recreation throughout the Reserve. Visitors to the Tijuana Estuary can enjoy a variety of activities, from hiking and biking to birding and horseback riding. The unique socio-ecological setting of the Reserve makes it an ideal "living laboratory" for researchers, and we offer a range of educational programs that celebrate the natural and cultural resources found in the Estuary.

The Half Moon Bay State Beach Visitor Center, located in Half Moon Bay, California, is a travel agency that offers visitors the opportunity to reserve campsites and lodging six months in advance. The center also provides information on guided hikes, public programs, and backpacking adventures through the Santa Cruz Mountains. The campground, now on the new reservation system ReserveCalifornia, offers tent and RV camping with electric hookups. The center is open on weekends and offers educational exhibits on the beach's cultural history. Visitors can enjoy four miles of sandy beaches, picnicking, fishing, and sunbathing. The Coastside Trail runs along the beaches, allowing for walking, jogging, and biking. Dogs are allowed on the trail but not on the beaches. The park offers an all-terrain beach wheelchair for wheelchair users to access the beach. Drones are not allowed in the park, and collecting natural beach features is prohibited. Special event permits are required, and field trips for school groups are available. The park is supported by the Coastside State Parks Association and the Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks.

Visit Huntington Beach is a store and travel agency located at 155 5th Street in Huntington Beach, California, United States. Situated between Los Angeles and San Diego, this institution is a hub for all things related to Surf City USA. With three airports nearby, it is easily accessible for visitors looking to explore the 10-mile stretch of sandy beaches, perfect for families, couples, dogs, and surfers alike. Huntington Beach offers a wide range of activities, from biking to beach bonfires, kayaking, and more. The iconic Huntington Beach Pier is a must-see, spanning 1,850 feet and providing breathtaking views of the ocean. Visitors can also enjoy luxurious oceanfront resorts, outdoor dining, and unique shopping experiences at Pacific City.

Russian Gulch State Beach is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in Jenner, California. Visitors can enjoy long sandy beaches, rugged headlands, natural arches, and secluded coves along the Sonoma Coast. The park spans 17 miles from Bodega Head to Vista Trail and offers a variety of activities such as beachcombing, fishing, picnicking, and hiking. Dogs are allowed on specified beaches within the park, including Marshall Gulch, Carmet Beach, and Russian Gulch. Equestrian riders can access the Bodega Dunes trail system through the back side of the campground. Horseback riding is permitted on certain areas of the beach, but dogs are not allowed in the dunes or on the beach.

Located in Long Beach, California, the Long Beach Glass Bottom Boat is a travel agency offering exploratory ECO-TOURS on a glass bottom boat. Situated minutes away from major Southern California attractions and airports, including the Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific, Convention Center, and Shoreline Village, this institution provides a unique experience for visitors of all ages. Embark on a journey in search of marine life and explore the natural ecosystems thriving in the port of Long Beach. Each eco-cruise is different, promising a fun and educational experience for the whole family. Purchase tickets online, on location, or call to make a reservation for this outdoor activity that is sure to create lasting memories.

Torrey Pines Reserve Lodge and Visitor Center is a travel agency located at 12600 North Torrey Pines Road in San Diego, California, United States. This institution is dedicated to preserving the unique and fragile environment of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, which is home to the rare Pinus torreyana pine tree. The reserve features stunning cliffs, ravines, and wind-sculpted pine forests, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The pueblo-style visitor center offers interpretive displays for visitors to learn more about the park's rich plant and wildlife community. To ensure safety, visitors are advised to time their beach visits for low tide and maintain a distance of 10 feet from the bluffs. Parking can be a challenge during busy times, so it is recommended to plan your visit accordingly. The reserve is open from 7:15 am to sunset, with the Visitor Center opening at 9:00 am daily. Camping is prohibited in the reserve, but day use passes are available for a fee. For more information and park regulations, visitors can visit Torreypine.org/reserveinfo.

Half Moon Bay State Beach- Dunes Beach Parking Lot is a parking facility located on Young Avenue in Half Moon Bay, California, United States. Our mission is to provide for the health, inspiration, and education of the people of California by preserving the state's biological diversity and protecting its natural and cultural resources. We offer California State Parks Annual Passes, making it easier for frequent visitors to enjoy the beauty of our state parks. Our new reservation system, ReserveCalifornia™, allows visitors to book their outdoor adventures online. Operated by PRIDE Industries, we also sell quality publications to the public. With the Outdoors For All initiative, we provide innovative access programs for children and families to explore California's State Park System. Whether you want to relax by the shoreline or explore the pines, Half Moon Bay State Beach- Dunes Beach Parking Lot is the perfect starting point for your outdoor adventure.

College Cove Beach is a natural feature located in Trinidad, California, United States. It is a short hike through the woods, across open bluffs, and past seasonal wildflowers down to the beach. Low tide is the best time to visit this secluded cove, where visitors can enjoy the sandy beach and explore the open meadow with scattered stands of alders on the high bluffs above. Visitor facilities include restrooms, parking, and a small picnic area with tables and stoves. Please note that dogs are not allowed on trails except for service animals, and online reservations are not available for this park. To stay updated on events in north coast parks, visit the North Coast Redwoods Facebook and Instagram pages. College Cove Beach is located 19 miles north of Eureka, CA just off Highway 101, making it a convenient and peaceful retreat from the nearby highway traffic.

Trinidad State Beach is a natural feature located at 576 Pacific Ave in Trinidad, California, United States. This beautiful beach is a short hike through the woods, across open bluffs, and past seasonal wildflowers. It is best visited during low tide and offers a peaceful retreat from the nearby highway. Visitor facilities include restrooms, parking, and a small picnic area with tables and stoves. Dogs are not allowed on the trails, except for service animals. Online reservations are not available for this park. Stay updated on events by visiting the North Coast Redwoods Facebook and Instagram pages. To reach Trinidad State Beach, drive 19 miles north of Eureka, CA on Highway 101 and follow the signs to the park located at 4150 Patrick's Point Drive in Trinidad, CA.

Little Corona del Mar Beach, located in Newport Beach, California, is a natural feature popular among swimmers, surfers, and divers. This half-mile long sandy beach is surrounded by cliffs and a rock jetty that marks the entrance to Newport Harbor. Dogs are allowed on the beach before 10 a.m. and after 4:30 p.m., but not between those hours. Operated by the City of Newport Beach, this beach offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities. Visitors can access the beach via an access road near the intersection of Iris Street and Ocean Boulevard in Corona del Mar. Online reservations are not available for this park, so be sure to check the city's website for more information. The beach is open from 6am to 10pm, seven days a week. Please note that Corona del Mar State Beach does not accept the Annual Day Use Pass. Enjoy a day of sun, sand, and sea at Little Corona del Mar Beach.

Van Damme State Beach, located in Little River, California, offers a scenic beach, lush fern-filled forest, and year-round camping. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, birding, kayaking, and botanizing. The park features a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk trail in the Pygmy Forest, as well as hike-in campsites in a beautiful redwood forest. The park's historical resources are connected to the redwood lumber industry, providing insight into the struggles of a small, independent lumber operation. The climate is temperate year-round, with winter rains and cool summer fogs supporting the thriving coastal redwoods. Camping reservations can be made up to six months in advance, and visitors can explore the park's habitats through various hiking trails. Van Damme State Beach is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature and history.

Goat Rock State Beach is located within the Sonoma Coast State Park in Jenner, California, United States. This park features long sandy beaches, rugged headlands, natural arches, and secluded coves, making it one of California's most scenic attractions. Visitors can enjoy activities such as beachcombing, fishing, sunbathing, and picnicking. Dogs are allowed on specified beaches within the park, including Marshall Gulch, Carmet Beach, Schoolhouse Beach, Portuguese Beach, and more. However, dogs are not allowed in certain campgrounds and areas within the park. Equestrian riders can access the Bodega Dunes trail system through the back side of the campground.

North Salmon Creek Beach is a natural feature located at 3095 California 1, Bodega Bay, California, United States. Our mission is to provide for the health, inspiration, and education of the people of California by preserving the state's biological diversity and protecting its natural and cultural resources. We offer high-quality outdoor recreation opportunities for all visitors. In an effort to promote equity and inclusion, we are working to identify and redress discriminatory names attached to state parks and transportation systems. Governor Gavin Newsom's leadership has paved the way for initiatives like the Outdoors For All program, providing innovative access programs for children and families to explore California's State Park System.

Pomponio State Beach is a popular tourist attraction located at 19369 Cabrillo Highway South, San Gregorio, California, United States. This beautiful beach is situated 12 miles south of Half Moon Bay along the San Mateo coastline, offering miles of gently sloping, sandy beaches at the base of high sandstone bluffs. Visitors can enjoy the small lagoon and roaring surf, as well as facilities such as picnic tables and pit toilets. Please note that camping is not available at this park, and online reservations are not accepted. However, California State Parks Backpacking Adventures offers naturalist-led backpacking trips through the Santa Cruz Mountains each summer, including a new "Cars-BA" Family Camp at Big Basin. Online registration is currently open for these adventures.

Pescadero Point Beach is a stunning natural feature located along California 1 in the charming coastal town of Pescadero, California. This picturesque beach offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, with rugged cliffs and sandy shores stretching out as far as the eye can see. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the shoreline, explore tide pools teeming with marine life, or simply soak up the sun while listening to the soothing sound of the waves crashing against the rocks. Pescadero Point Beach is a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the beauty of the California coastline.