TOP 10 Best coastal hiking trails in California

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.

Mendocino Headlands State Park-Big River Property is a picturesque park located on Big River Road in Mendocino, California. This park offers a unique blend of gentle trails, rugged coastline, secluded beaches, and timeless history surrounding the charming Village of Mendocino. Visitors can enjoy miles of trails along the cliffs, providing spectacular views of sea arches and hidden grottos. The park is perfect to visit in any season, whether to see spring wildflowers, enjoy a crisp fall day, escape to a cool summer climate, or witness the winter migration of grey whales. Activities at Mendocino Headlands State Park include hiking, surfing, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The park also serves as a buffer area to preserve the town's historical presence, offering a view of a unique blend of natural, ecological, cultural, and social diversity. The Historic Ford House on Main Street in Mendocino serves as the Visitors Center for the park, providing information about the area's history and exhibits on the logging era and local flora and fauna.

Gualala Point Regional Park is a stunning coastal destination located along California 1 in Gualala, California, United States. This institution offers a variety of amenities including a campground, lodging options, and a beautiful park for visitors to enjoy. With breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, access to hiking trails, and opportunities for picnicking and wildlife viewing, Gualala Point Regional Park is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent, rent a cabin, or simply spend the day exploring the natural beauty of the area, this institution has something for everyone to enjoy.

McClures Beach is a natural feature located in Inverness, California, United States. Hiking opportunities in Point Reyes National Seashore are abundant, with trails that wind through Douglas-fir forests, offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, and traverse rolling coastal hillsides. It is important to have a trail map before embarking on a hike, as well as to follow all trail closures and barriers for visitor safety and habitat protection. The park's trails pass through a variety of habitats, offering opportunities to see diverse wildlife. Visitors can choose hikes based on time, habitat, or location, and can find suggested routes starting at different trailheads. Short on time? Explore trails that can be completed in under an hour. Looking for a bigger adventure? Try routes of varying difficulty. Remember to check trail conditions before heading out, and to minimize your impact by leaving only footprints. For those hiking with dogs, be sure to know where pets are allowed in the park. For more information, contact the park at 415-464-5100.

Bass Lake in Point Reyes Seashore is a beautiful park located at 12245 Annie Oak Drive in Bolinas, California. The park offers a variety of hiking opportunities, allowing visitors to explore Douglas-fir forests, enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean, and traverse rolling coastal hillsides. It is important to download a trail map or purchase one at the park bookstore before embarking on a hike. Visitors can search for hikes by time, habitat, or location using the guide provided. It is crucial to observe all trail closures and barriers for visitor safety and to protect the environment. The park's trail crew is working to address overgrown trails, but hikers should be prepared to wade through vegetation and check for ticks. The park offers trails for all levels of hikers, from short strolls to longer, more challenging routes. Visitors can also explore coastal grasslands and sandy beaches. Before heading out, it is important to check current trail advisories and closures, as well as weather conditions. Visitors are encouraged to minimize their impact on the environment by taking only pictures and leaving only footprints. For those bringing their four-legged friends, it is important to know where they are allowed in the park. For more information, visitors can call 415-464-5100 to access recorded information about the park or speak with a ranger during operating hours.

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.

Pillar Point Bluff is a stunning park and popular tourist attraction located on Airport Street in Moss Beach, California, United States. This beautiful coastal bluff offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is a perfect spot for whale watching, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the California coast. Visitors can also explore the nearby tide pools and hiking trails, making Pillar Point Bluff a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

McNee Ranch State Park, located in Montara, California, is a popular tourist attraction known for its coastal mountain habitat and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy hiking on winding trails, exploring the beach, and taking in the natural beauty of the area. The park offers a variety of activities, including sunbathing, surfing, and nature study. Although camping is not available at McNee Ranch State Park, visitors can explore nearby state park campgrounds such as Half Moon Bay State Beach and Butano State Park. Dogs are permitted on a leash, but beach fires and collecting natural items are prohibited. Additionally, drones are not allowed in the park to protect wildlife and cultural resources.

Redondo Beach is a charming institution located at 699 Thone Avenue in Half Moon Bay, California. This beautiful coastal town offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation and leisure. Redondo Beach is known for its pristine sandy shores, picturesque sunsets, and a variety of outdoor activities such as surfing, beach volleyball, and hiking along the coastal trails. Visitors can also enjoy delicious seafood restaurants, boutique shops, and local art galleries in the nearby downtown area. Whether you're looking for a peaceful beach retreat or an adventurous day by the sea, Redondo Beach is the perfect destination for a memorable experience on the California coast.

Four Mile Beach, located at 3810 Coast Road in Santa Cruz, California, is a natural feature offering visitors a chance to explore the stunning Santa Cruz coastline. With 7,000 acres of land, visitors can hike along more than 35 miles of trails, venture into the Santa Cruz Mountains, or walk along the coastal bluffs. The park features historic buildings from the late 1800s, including a Victorian home, a water-powered machine shop, and a rodeo arena. Visitors can also learn about California's early ranching history through guided tours on weekends. Although the Wilder Ranch Park Store is currently closed due to flooding, visitors can still enjoy the park and pay for parking fees using the Yodel app on their smartphones. The park is Crumb Clean, meaning visitors can help protect the endangered marbled murrelet bird that nests in the park. Various activities and events are offered at Four Mile Beach, including free public ranch tours on weekends, horseback riding, and camping.

Marina State Beach is a popular tourist attraction located at 200 Reservation Road in Marina, California, United States. This beach winds through the Marina Dunes Natural Preserves, offering stunning panoramic views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. It is a hotspot for hang-gliding, radio-controlled gliders, and kites. Visitors can enjoy picnics and take in the beautiful scenery. However, water recreation is not recommended due to strong rip currents. The weather can be changeable, so layered clothing is advised. Dogs are not allowed at this location, but are permitted at other nearby beaches. The Marine Protected Areas Coloring Book is available for students to learn about the diverse plant and animal life in California's MPAs. Download the coloring book and the California Coastal Explorer Guide for more information. Please note that online reservations are not available for this park.

Harmony Headlands State Park is a stunning 784-acre coastal park located along Highway 1 in Cayucos, California. Just 3 miles south of the charming town of Harmony, the park offers a peaceful and secluded setting for visitors to enjoy. The park is a popular tourist attraction and offers recreational activities such as hiking, picnicking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can take a leisurely 1.5-mile trail from the parking lot to a coastal marine terrace grassland with breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The park is rich in history, with evidence of human occupation dating back at least 10,000 years. The native people, ancestors of the Salinan or Chumash tribes, lived along the coastal bluffs and utilized the natural resources for survival.

North Point Natural Area is a stunning tourist attraction located in Morro Bay, California, United States. This beautiful natural area offers breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding landscape, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking along scenic trails, birdwatching, and taking in the peaceful ambiance of this coastal gem. With its diverse wildlife and pristine environment, North Point Natural Area is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the California coast.

Gaviota Peak Trailhead is a popular starting point for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the scenic trails of Gaviota Park in Goleta, California. Located at the park boundary, this institution offers easy access to a variety of hiking and biking trails that wind through the beautiful coastal landscape of the area. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Gaviota Peak Trailhead has something for everyone to enjoy in this picturesque park setting.

Crescent Bay Beach is a stunning park located on Crescent Bay Drive in Laguna Beach, California. This beautiful beach offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy relaxing on the sandy shores, taking a dip in the crystal clear waters, or exploring the tide pools and rock formations. Crescent Bay Beach is the perfect spot for a day of sun, sand, and sea in the picturesque coastal town of Laguna Beach.

Leo Carrillo State Park, located at 35000 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California, is a popular tourist attraction and park that offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Dogs are welcome in day-use areas, the campground, and North Beach, but are not allowed on backcountry trails or South Beach. Visitors can make same-day reservations for campsites and lodging, with bookings available based on availability and the Park's maximum stay rules. The park features 1.5 miles of beach for swimming, surfing, windsurfing, surf fishing, and beachcombing, as well as tidepools, coastal caves, and reefs to explore. Giant sycamores provide shade in the main campgrounds, and back-country hiking is also available. Junior Rangers and campfire programs are offered in the summer, while school field trips are available during the school year.

MacKerricher Beach, located at 24100 MacKerricher Park Road in Fort Bragg, California, is a beautiful state park offering a variety of habitats including beach, bluff, headland, dune, forest, and wetland. Visitors can explore tide pools, spot seals along the coastline, and observe over 90 species of birds at Cleone Lake. The park is popular for activities such as hiking, jogging, horseback riding, and biking, with a wheelchair accessible nature trail available. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance, subject to availability and park rules. The park is three miles north of Fort Bragg on Highway 1, near Cleone, and offers stunning views of the ocean and nearby headlands, making it a great spot for whale watching during winter and spring.

Rincon Point is a stunning natural feature located at 172 Rincon Point Road in Carpinteria, California, United States. This picturesque spot offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular destination for surfers and beachgoers alike. With its pristine sandy beaches and rugged coastline, Rincon Point is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the California coast. Whether you're looking to catch some waves or simply relax and take in the scenery, Rincon Point is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

Leo Carrillo State Beach, located at 35000 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California, is a stunning natural feature that offers visitors a variety of activities and amenities. With 1.5 miles of beach, visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, windsurfing, surf fishing, and beachcombing. The beach also features tidepools, coastal caves, and reefs for exploration. The park is named after Leo Carrillo, an actor, preservationist, and conservationist who played Pancho in the 1950s TV series "The Cisco Kid." Leo Carrillo State Beach offers camping options with same-day reservations available, as well as backcountry hiking and Junior Ranger programs during the summer.

Leo Carrillo State Beach is a stunning institution located in Malibu, California, United States. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, surfing, windsurfing, surf fishing, and beachcombing along the 1.5 miles of beautiful beach. The beach also features tidepools, coastal caves, and reefs for exploration. Giant sycamores provide shade in the main campgrounds, and back-country hiking is available for outdoor enthusiasts. Named after actor, preservationist, and conservationist Leo Carrillo, the park offers Junior Ranger and campfire programs during the summer, as well as school field trips during the school year. Leo Carrillo State Beach is a perfect destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Abalone Cove Shoreline Park, located at 5970 Palos Verdes Drive South in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, is a beautiful coastal park with two beaches, tidepools, bluff top viewing areas, and hiking trails. The park is home to a State Ecological Preserve where protected animals and marine life are off-limits. Visitors can access the park through a parking lot off Palos Verdes Drive South, with a long trail leading to Abalone Cove Beach. To reach Sacred Cove, visitors can walk along Palos Verdes Drive South to one of two trails between Portuguese and Inspiration Points. Lifeguards are present at Abalone Cove Beach during summer hours and weekends. The park offers stunning views of the ocean and Catalina Island, but barbeques and fires are not allowed. Dogs are not permitted on the beach, but on-leash dogs are allowed in the upper picnic area and on designated trails.

Clam Beach County Campground is a picturesque campground located at Clam Beach Drive in McKinleyville, California, United States. Situated just 7 1/2 miles north of Arcata, near McKinleyville, this campground offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With easy access from HWY 101 (exit Clam Beach Park off-ramp), guests can enjoy a variety of activities such as camping, lodging, and exploring the surrounding park. Whether you're looking to relax by the beach, go for a hike, or simply unwind in nature, Clam Beach County Campground is the perfect destination for a memorable outdoor experience.

Centerville Beach County Park is a stunning natural feature located on Centerville Road in Ferndale, California, United States. This beautiful park offers visitors a picturesque setting with sandy shores, rolling waves, and breathtaking ocean views. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, sunbathing, picnicking, or beachcombing, Centerville Beach County Park is a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or explore the natural beauty of the California coast, this park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Manchester State Park is a beautiful coastal park located at 44500 Kinney Road in Manchester, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including camping, hiking, and beachcombing. Dogs are allowed in the campground, but not on the beach or trails. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance, based on availability and the park's maximum stay rules. The park features nearly 18,000 feet of ocean frontage, with a gently curving beach line that collects driftwood.

Spring Ranch Nature Preserve is a peaceful and picturesque park located in Little River, California, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area, with lush forests, meandering streams, and stunning coastal views. The park is a haven for wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching and nature photography. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and exploring the many trails that wind through the preserve. Whether you're looking for a quiet escape or a fun day out in nature, Spring Ranch Nature Preserve is the perfect destination.

Jenner Headlands Preserve is a stunning park located at 12001 California 1 in Jenner, California, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors a chance to explore the rugged coastline, rolling hills, and diverse wildlife of Northern California. With miles of hiking trails, breathtaking ocean views, and opportunities for birdwatching and picnicking, Jenner Headlands Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this coastal gem and experience the tranquility and serenity of the California coast at Jenner Headlands Preserve.

Middle Harbor Shoreline Park is a beautiful waterfront park located in Oakland, California. Situated at 2777 Middle Harbor Road, this park offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and the Oakland skyline. Visitors can enjoy walking and biking along the scenic trails, picnicking in the grassy areas, or simply relaxing and taking in the natural beauty of the surroundings. With its peaceful atmosphere and abundance of recreational activities, Middle Harbor Shoreline Park is a popular tourist attraction for both locals and visitors alike.

Garrapata State Park is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 34500 California 1, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, United States. The park features two miles of beachfront, coastal hiking trails, and a 50-foot climb to a beautiful view of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Visitors can explore diverse coastal vegetation, dense redwood groves, and outstanding coastal headlands at Soberanes Point. The park is home to sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, and California gray whales during their yearly migration. Dogs are allowed on the beach at Gate 19 and trails leading to it, but not in all other areas of the park. Online reservations are not available for Garrapata State Park. The weather can be changeable, so layered clothing is advised. The Soberanes Canyon Trail is currently open, but the Rocky Ridge Trail is closed due to hazardous conditions.

The Park Entrance Kiosk at Pfeiffer Big Sur Road in Big Sur, California, is the gateway to an unforgettable outdoor adventure. This institution serves as the starting point for visitors to access the stunning natural beauty and recreational opportunities of the park. Whether you're looking to hike through towering redwoods, picnic by a tranquil river, or simply soak in the breathtaking coastal views, the Park Entrance Kiosk is your one-stop destination for all things park-related. Stop by to purchase your entrance pass, gather information on trails and activities, and get ready to immerse yourself in the wonders of this iconic California park.

Ragged Point - Scenic View is a must-visit tourist attraction located at 19019 California 1, Ragged Point, California, United States. The stretch of highway between San Simeon and Ragged Point offers some of the most picturesque views in the world, where the Santa Lucia Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean. The drive is filled with breathtaking views at every turn, making you feel like a star in your own car commercial on Highway 1. Ragged Point Inn, originally an outpost of the Hearst Ranch, offers lodging, dining, a gift shop, and a gas station, making it an ideal stop for a day or an extended stay. The property's well-manicured gardens and grounds complement the natural beauty of the surroundings, and outdoor concerts are held during the summer. The Inn boasts some of the finest views along Highway 1, with outlook points facing both north and south, making it a romantic spot for special occasions.