TOP 30 Best Beach nature reserves in California

South Strand Conservation Park is a serene and picturesque park located in Dana Point, California. This beautiful park offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with stunning views of the South Strand coastline. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the trails, birdwatching, and picnicking amidst the natural beauty of the park. The park is dedicated to preserving and protecting the local environment, making it a great place for nature lovers to explore and appreciate the diverse wildlife and flora of the area. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day out in nature or a place to connect with the outdoors, South Strand Conservation Park is the perfect destination.

Welcome to Fall Creek Unit | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, a breathtaking natural escape nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains at 1561 Felton Empire Road, Felton, California. This park is renowned for its majestic 40-acre grove of old-growth redwood trees, offering an awe-inspiring experience for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Explore the diverse landscapes of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, which spans over 4,650 acres of pristine forested and open land. Discover the towering redwoods, some reaching up to 277 feet tall and over 1,500 years old, alongside diverse habitats including grasslands, river/riparian zones, and unique sandhills. The park is also home to a rich variety of wildlife, from banana slugs and black-tailed deer to coyotes and steelhead trout.

Welcome to Asilomar Trail, a serene and picturesque park located along the breathtaking coastline of Pacific Grove, California. Nestled at the address Asilomar Coastal Trail, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, our park offers a tranquil escape into nature's beauty, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Asilomar Trail provides visitors with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged coastal landscapes, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely walk, a scenic hike, or simply a peaceful place to unwind, our trail caters to all. The well-maintained paths meander through a unique blend of coastal dunes and native flora, offering an immersive experience in one of California's most beautiful natural settings.

Welcome to Wave Street Studios - Monterey's Premier Venue for Weddings, Events, and Live Performances Nestled on the scenic Recreation Trail above the historic Cannery Row, Wave Street Studios is Monterey's hidden gem for unforgettable weddings, dynamic events, and captivating live performances. Located at 774 Wave Street, just a stone's throw from the beautiful McAbee Beach and the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, our venue offers a unique blend of modern elegance and natural beauty.

Welcome to Wedgewood Accessway, Coastal Access, your gateway to the stunning natural beauty of Cambria, California. Nestled at 2701-2683 Sherwood Drive, this picturesque park offers visitors a serene escape to the breathtaking coastal landscapes of California's Central Coast. Whether you're a local resident or a curious traveler, Wedgewood Accessway provides a perfect setting for relaxation, exploration, and inspiration. Immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings as you stroll along well-maintained paths, offering easy access to the pristine beaches and rugged coastline. The park's unique location allows for spectacular ocean views, making it an ideal spot for photography, picnics, or simply unwinding while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.

Welcome to Los Angeles County Fire Department Station 127, a cornerstone of safety and service in Carson, California. Located at 2049 East 223rd Street, our station is part of the esteemed Los Angeles County Fire Department, known worldwide for its exceptional firefighting and lifesaving capabilities. Our firefighters are celebrated for their skill and dedication, and we invite those interested in joining our ranks to learn more about the pathway to becoming a Los Angeles County firefighter. Our department is also home to one of the premier ocean lifeguarding agencies globally. Aspiring lifeguards can discover the steps to join this elite team and help continue our tradition of excellence in water safety.

Welcome to Lower Trestles, a breathtaking natural haven nestled within the picturesque San Onofre State Beach Trail in San Diego, California. Renowned for its stunning coastal views and world-class surf, Lower Trestles offers an idyllic escape for beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this iconic park, where rolling waves meet golden sands and lush coastal vegetation. Whether you're a seasoned surfer eager to ride the legendary breaks, a hiker exploring scenic trails, or a family enjoying a sun-soaked day by the ocean, Lower Trestles provides an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

The Coastal Parking Lot at MacKerricher State Park in Fort Bragg, California, offers visitors the opportunity to reserve campsites and lodging in advance. The park features a variety of habitats including beach, bluff, headland, dune, forest, and wetland areas. Tide pools and seals can be spotted along the coastline, while birdwatchers can enjoy over 90 species of birds near Cleone Lake. The park is popular for hiking, jogging, horseback riding, and cycling, with wheelchair accessible trails available. The park's history dates back to the Mendocino Indian Reservation and the Union Lumber Company's timber and shipping operations. Accessibility improvements are ongoing, including the removal of invasive species and restoration of natural habitats. Guided and self-guided educational field trips are available for school groups at no cost. For more information, visitors can contact the Mendocino District Office or the MacKerricher State Park Interpreters office.

Tilden Regional Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 2501 Grizzly Peak Boulevard in Orinda, California, United States. The park is open daily from 5am to 10pm, offering a range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. From picnicking and swimming at Lake Anza to exploring the Botanic Garden and riding the carousel at the Merry-Go-Round, Tilden Park has something for everyone. The park spans over 2,000 acres and provides plenty of opportunities to experience nature and wildlife. Named after Charles Lee Tilden, the park features various facilities such as the Environmental Education Center, Little Farm, and the Steam Trains. The park is easily accessible from different entrances off Wildcat Canyon Road and Grizzly Peak Boulevard in Berkeley. Visitors can also enjoy wheelchair-accessible attractions such as the Steam Train, Merry-Go-Round, and the Botanic Garden.

The Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center at Channel Islands National Park, located at 1901 Spinnaker Drive in Ventura, California, is a popular tourist attraction and travel agency. The center features a bookstore, displays of marine aquatic life, and exhibits showcasing the unique characteristics of each park island. Visitors can also enjoy the 25-minute park movie, “A Treasure in the Sea,” shown throughout the day in the auditorium (closed-caption film available upon request). The fully accessible visitor center is open daily from 8:30 am to 5 pm, with closures on Thanksgiving and December 25th. On weekends and holidays, rangers offer free public programs at 11 am and 3 pm, providing insights into the resources of the park. The center also hosts various events and programs, which can be found on their website.

Coronado Cays Park is a picturesque waterfront park located at 99 Grand Caribe Isle in Coronado, California. This tranquil park offers stunning views of the bay and is a popular tourist attraction for visitors looking to relax and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. With lush greenery, walking paths, and picnic areas, Coronado Cays Park is the perfect spot for a leisurely day out with family and friends. Whether you're looking to take a peaceful stroll along the water or have a picnic while taking in the scenic views, this park is sure to provide a memorable experience for all who visit.

Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, located in Crescent City, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature lovers. Established in 1927, this park boasts approximately 50% old growth coast redwood trees and eight miles of unspoiled coastline. The diverse understory includes tanoak, madrone, red alder, big leaf maple, and California bay, creating a lush and vibrant environment. Visitors can explore the park's steep topography, with elevations ranging from sea level to 1277', offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy a leisurely stroll along Wilson Beach or False Klamath Cove, where they can admire tidepools at low tide. Please note that swimming is not recommended due to the steep beach slope and rocky conditions. For those interested in learning more about the geological wonders of the area, the park is part of the Redwood National and State Parks, which make up 45 percent of the remaining old-growth redwood forest in California.

Mendocino Headlands State Park is a picturesque park located in Mendocino, California, surrounded by gentle trails, rugged coastline, secluded beaches, and rich history. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views of sea arches and hidden grottos while hiking along the cliffs. The park offers a variety of activities such as hiking, surfing, and fishing, as well as opportunities to witness the spring wildflowers, fall colors, summer climate, and winter migration of grey whales. The Historic Ford House serves as the Visitors Center and museum, providing information on the park's history and hosting exhibits on local flora, fauna, and wildlife. Big River Beach, part of the park, offers a relaxing spot for picnicking, sunbathing, and playing in the surf. The park also hosts the Mendocino Music Festival, a popular event featuring a variety of musical performances. Admission to the park is free, and visitors are encouraged to explore the diverse habitats and wildlife corridors within Mendocino Headlands State Park.

Russian Gulch State Park, located in Mendocino, California, is a stunning park with a mix of leafy canyons, windswept headlands, and pristine beaches along the rocky coastline. Just two miles north of Mendocino, this park offers a variety of activities such as camping, hiking, biking, fishing, diving, kayaking, and horseback riding. Visitors can also marvel at the park's natural beauty, including a 36-foot waterfall, a collapsed sea cave called Devil's Punchbowl, and the picturesque Frederick W. Panhorst Bridge. In the spring, the park blooms with acres of wildflowers, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts. With nearly a mile and a half of ocean frontage, Russian Gulch State Park is often compared to Point Lobos on the Big Sur Coast. The park's climate is temperate year-round, with winter rainclouds and cool summer fogs providing the necessary moisture for the thriving coast redwoods.

Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands is a stunning tourist attraction located in Point Arena, California, United States. This expansive area offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore scenic trails, take in the fresh sea air, and witness the beauty of the California coast. Whether you're a nature lover, hiker, or photographer, Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Northern California.

MacKerricher State Park, located at 24100 MacKerricher Park Road in Fort Bragg, California, is a popular tourist attraction and park known for its diverse habitats including beach, bluff, headland, dune, forest, and wetland. Visitors can explore tide pools, spot seals on the coastline, and birdwatch at Cleone Lake. The park is also a great spot for whale watching during winter and spring. Activities such as hiking, jogging, horseback riding, and biking are popular in the park, which also features a wheelchair accessible nature trail. The park's history dates back to its time as part of the Mendocino Indian Reservation and later as part of the Union Lumber Company's timber and shipping operations. MacKerricher State Park officially opened in 1952 and has since expanded to include the Ten Mile beach area.

Salt Point State Park, located in Jenner, California, offers a unique coastal experience with rocky promontories, panoramic views, and kelp-dotted coves. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, skin and SCUBA diving, and camping. The park features 20 miles of hiking trails, six miles of rugged coastline, and an underwater park. Dogs are allowed on-leash in certain areas of the park. The park also offers campgrounds with fire-rings, picnic tables, and food lockers. Reservations are recommended for camping, as the campgrounds fill up quickly on weekends. The park is known for its sandstone and Tafoni formations, as well as its diverse marine life. Visitors can explore tide pools, go fishing, or launch small boats in the marine reserve. Hazardous tree conditions are present in the park due to pitch pine canker, so visitors are advised to be cautious of standing dead trees. Admission to the park is $8.00 per vehicle, with camping fees ranging from $5.00 to $35.00 per night. Located approximately 90 miles north of San Francisco, Salt Point State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Sonoma Coast State Park, located in Bodega Bay, California, is a stunning park and tourist attraction known for its long sandy beaches, rugged coastline, natural arches, and secluded coves. Visitors can enjoy activities such as beachcombing, fishing, picnicking, and tide pooling at various beaches within the park. The park spans 17 miles from Bodega Head to Vista Trail and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Dogs are allowed on specified beaches within the park, while equestrian riders can access the Bodega Dunes trail system through designated areas. Campsites and lodging can be reserved up to six months in advance, and day use areas are open to the public. Facilities such as bathrooms and picnic tables are available at most locations.

Elephant Seal Vista Point, located in San Simeon, California, is a must-visit landmark and tourist attraction for anyone looking to witness the incredible annual return of the Northern Elephant Seals to the California coastline. This natural wonder is comparable to some of the most famous animal migrations in the world and is right in California's backyard. The Elephant Seal Vista Point is just 5 miles north of Hearst Castle along the coast of San Luis Obispo County, making it easily accessible for visitors from all over. From mid-November to mid-January, visitors can witness the dominant bull elephant seals returning to the beach, displacing the sub adult males who have been practicing their skills in hopes of competing for the females' affection.

Año Nuevo State Park, located at 1 New Years Creek Road in Pescadero, California, is a popular tourist attraction known for its elephant seal viewing opportunities. From April to November, visitors can enjoy a self-guided walk along the Año Point Trail to observe up to 10,000 elephant seals as they breed, give birth, and molt their skin on the scenic dunes and beaches. The park also features the Marine Education Center, housed in a historic dairy ranch, offering natural history exhibits and a bookstore. The park's diverse natural and cultural resources attract visitors from around the world, with opportunities for birdwatching, hiking along ocean bluffs, and exploring the remains of a 19th-century lighthouse on Año Nuevo Island. The park's terrain includes coastal prairie, wetland marshes, and dune fields, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, including the endangered San Francisco Garter Snake and California Red-legged Frog.

Friends of the Dunes is a non-profit organization located in Arcata, California, dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and diversity of coastal environments in northern California. Through community-supported education and stewardship programs, Friends of the Dunes works to educate and engage the public in conservation efforts. Visitors can explore the stunning coastal landscapes, learn about the local flora and fauna, and participate in hands-on stewardship activities. Help support their mission by joining their free environmental education and stewardship programs. Contact Friends of the Dunes at 220 Stamps Lane, Arcata, CA, 95518, or call 707-444-1397, or email info@friendsofthedunes.org.

Navarro River Redwoods State Park is a stunning natural attraction located in Elk, California, United States. This park is a popular destination for visitors looking to experience the beauty of a redwood forest along the Navarro River. The park offers activities such as picnicking, swimming, camping, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Visitors can explore second growth redwood groves that stretch throughout the park, providing a habitat for wildlife such as raccoons, black-tail deer, and river-oriented birds. The park is also home to the Paul M. Dimmick Campground and Navarro Beach Campground, offering different camping experiences for visitors.

Sunset Cliffs is a stunning tourist attraction located at 1100 Sunset Cliffs Boulevard in San Diego, California. This iconic spot offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged cliffs that line the coast. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the cliffside paths, watch the vibrant sunsets, and even catch a glimpse of local wildlife such as sea lions and dolphins. Sunset Cliffs is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and take in the natural beauty of the California coast.

Luscomb's Point is a stunning tourist attraction located on Sunset Cliffs Boulevard in San Diego, California. This picturesque spot offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. With its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and crashing waves, Luscomb's Point is the perfect place to relax, take in the natural beauty, and snap some unforgettable photos. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or an adventure by the sea, Luscomb's Point has something for everyone to enjoy.

Point Bonita Trail is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 94865 California 1, Sausalito, California, United States. The trail offers beautiful views of the ocean and the iconic Point Bonita Lighthouse. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely hike on the well-maintained trail, but it is important to stay on the established path to protect the local flora and prevent erosion. Trailhead parking is available at Point Bonita, with several ADA accessible spots for convenience. An accessible restroom can be found at the parking area, but there are no facilities at the lighthouse itself. It is important to keep food within arm's reach and refrain from feeding the wildlife to preserve the natural environment. Visitors are also reminded to carry out all trash and food waste to keep the area clean.

Zip Line Eco Tour is an exciting adventure located at 1 Saint Catherine Way in Avalon, California, United States. Experience two hours of adrenaline-fueled fun as you zip down five separate lines at speeds of up to 35 mph, while enjoying breathtaking ocean views and learning about the unique flora and fauna of Catalina Island. After the tour, relax at Descanso Beach Club and share your experiences with friends over signature food and drinks. Make sure to check the tour requirements and eligibility before purchasing tickets. Pets are not allowed on any Catalina Island Company activity, and food and beverages are not allowed on tours. Reservations are highly recommended. Additionally, enjoy other activities such as Catalina Aerial Adventure, Climbing Wall, and Falconry Experience in picturesque Descanso Canyon. Descanso Beach Club offers comfortable lounges, cabanas, drink specials, and weekend entertainment for a perfect island getaway. Don't miss out on this top-rated adventure on Catalina Island!

Spooner's Cove is a natural feature located at 3550 Pecho Valley Road in California, United States. Dogs are allowed in the campground, roadways, and Spooner’s Cove Beach on leash. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging six months in advance. Montaña de Oro State Park, where Spooner's Cove is located, offers over 8000 acres of stunning landscapes including cliffs, beaches, streams, and hills. Wildlife such as deer, bobcats, and quail can be spotted in the park. The Islay Creek Campground offers primitive campsites for tent camping and RVs. The Hazard Canyon Horse Camp is designed for horse camping. Environmental Camps are also available for those looking for a more rustic camping experience. The Spooner Ranch House serves as a visitor center with historical information and a nature store. Nearby attractions include Los Osos Oaks State Natural Reserve and Point Buchon Trail. Visitors can also enjoy educational programs and activities for kids at the Campfire Center. RV rentals and delivery services are available in the area.

West Cliff Dr Tide Pools is a captivating natural wonder located in Santa Cruz, California, United States. This park and tourist attraction offers visitors the opportunity to explore a diverse and vibrant ecosystem of tide pools along the beautiful West Cliff Drive. Visitors can marvel at the colorful array of marine life, including sea stars, anemones, and crabs, while enjoying stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful and scenic escape, West Cliff Dr Tide Pools is a must-visit destination in Santa Cruz.

Estero Bluffs State Park is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 750 Hearst Castle Road in San Simeon, California, United States. Dogs are allowed on leash in permitted areas south of San Geronimo Road. The park aims to preserve and protect the diverse and scenic area of the California Central Coast, including sea stacks, wetlands, bluffs, terraces, streams, and a pocket cove with a beach. The property is home to endangered species like the snowy plover and contains sensitive Native American sites. Residents of Cayucos and surrounding communities worked together in the 1980s to stop coastal development and preserve the open space, leading to the Trust for Public Lands purchasing the property in 2000 and deeding it to the State in 2002. The park offers recreational activities such as sea kayaking, fishing, hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing.

Morro Bay Water Access is a beautiful park located on Main Street in Morro Bay, California, United States. This institution provides a perfect spot for visitors to enjoy the stunning views of the bay and access the water for various recreational activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The park is well-maintained and offers picnic areas, walking paths, and benches for visitors to relax and take in the peaceful surroundings. Whether you're looking to spend a day on the water or simply enjoy the natural beauty of Morro Bay, this water access park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.