TOP 30 California coastal tourism in National City, California

129 results found

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.

Carmel River State Beach, located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, is a picturesque mile-long beach on Carmel Bay. The beach features a bird sanctuary in a lagoon where visitors can observe a wide variety of waterfowl and song birds. The beach also offers panoramic views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Monastery Beach, also known as San Jose Creek Beach, is popular with scuba divers. However, swimming, wading, or walking near the sanctuary can be dangerous. Please remember to keep your dog on a leash at all times while visiting the beach. As of September 16, 2014, beach fires are banned at Carmel River State Beach and other state beaches in the Monterey District to minimize fire dangers. State Park officials will issue warnings to first-time offenders and citations to repeat offenders. For cooking purposes, a raised and self-contained gas camp stove may be used.

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.

The Fitzgerald Marine Ranger Station & Parking is a park located at 801-831 North Lake Street in Moss Beach, California, United States. This institution serves as a hub for ranger-led educational programs and activities focused on the marine life and ecosystems found along the California coast. Visitors can explore tide pools, learn about local wildlife, and participate in guided tours and events. The parking area provides convenient access to the park for those looking to enjoy a day of outdoor exploration and education.

Cameo Shores Beach is a stunning natural feature located in Newport Beach, California, United States. With its pristine white sands, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, this beach is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and picnicking in this idyllic coastal paradise. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or enjoy some fun in the sun, Cameo Shores Beach offers the perfect setting for a day of outdoor adventure and relaxation.

Clam Beach County Park is a beautiful coastal park located on Clam Beach Drive in McKinleyville, California. Just 7 1/2 miles north of Arcata, this park is easily accessible off Highway 101 (exit Clam Beach Park off-ramp). With stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, sandy beaches, and rugged cliffs, Clam Beach County Park is a popular destination for picnicking, beachcombing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Northern California coast. Visitors can explore the tide pools, watch for whales and seabirds, or simply relax and soak up the sun. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or an outdoor adventure, Clam Beach County Park offers something for everyone.

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.

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.

Harbor View Park, located in Oxnard, California, is a picturesque park and tourist attraction that offers stunning views of the ocean. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities such as jet skiing, whale watching, and sunset gazing. The park is just an hour's drive from Los Angeles, making it a perfect weekend getaway destination. Channel Islands Harbor, where Harbor View Park is situated, is a working harbor that provides opportunities for paddle boarding, kayaking, sailing, and dining at local eateries. The area is known as "America's Galapagos" due to its diverse marine environment and offers excursions to the Channel Islands National Park.

Welcome to Stornetta Lands South Trailhead, a breathtaking natural haven located in the heart of Point Arena, California. Situated at 451 School Street, this picturesque park offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of the Mendocino Coast. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, Stornetta Lands South Trailhead boasts a network of trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, offering panoramic views of rugged cliffs, lush grasslands, and pristine beaches. Whether you're hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying a peaceful stroll, the park provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Welcome to the US Coast Guard Station at Bodega Bay, located at 100 Dorm Park Rd, Bodega Bay, California. As a vital part of the nation's maritime safety and security network, our station is dedicated to safeguarding the beautiful coastal waters of Northern California. Our highly trained team of professionals is committed to ensuring the safety of mariners, protecting the marine environment, and providing rapid response in emergency situations. Whether it's conducting search and rescue operations, enforcing maritime law, or engaging with the local community, we strive to uphold the highest standards of service and integrity. Come visit us to learn more about our mission and how we contribute to the safety and security of our region's waters.

Welcome to Sea Lion Overlook, a serene park nestled in the heart of Inverness, California, at 16375 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. Situated within the breathtaking landscapes of Point Reyes National Seashore, our park offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich diversity of wildlife and natural beauty that this unique region has to offer. At Sea Lion Overlook, nature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike can experience the wonders of the wild. From December through March, witness the fascinating behavior of elephant seals at the nearby Elephant Seal Overlook, where these majestic marine mammals gather to breed and raise their young. Listen to the distinctive calls of the seals and observe their interactions in their natural habitat.

Welcome to the Farallon Islands, a breathtaking park located just beyond the iconic Golden Gate in San Francisco, California. As part of the Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary and Cordell Bank National Marine Sanctuary, our park is nestled within over 4,000 square miles of federally protected open ocean and coastal waters, making it one of the planet's most productive and biodiverse marine ecosystems. Our waters serve as a vital feeding ground for a remarkable array of marine life, including one of the largest groups of white sharks, 29 species of whales and dolphins, over 390 species of fish, and more than 330 species of invertebrates such as deep-sea corals, sponges, shrimp, crabs, and octopuses. The unique upwelling currents in the sanctuary contribute to this spectacular biodiversity.

Welcome to Point Reyes Beach North, a breathtaking natural feature located in the heart of California's stunning coastal landscape. Nestled within the Point Reyes National Seashore, this pristine beach offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Known for its expansive sandy shores and dramatic ocean views, Point Reyes Beach North is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're here to enjoy a peaceful walk along the shoreline, capture the perfect photograph of the sun setting over the Pacific, or simply bask in the tranquility of the surroundings, Point Reyes Beach North promises an unforgettable experience. The area is home to diverse wildlife, including harbor seals and a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife watchers.

Welcome to Point Reyes Beach South Parking, your gateway to the breathtaking shores of Point Reyes National Seashore in Inverness, California. Conveniently located, our parking facility offers easy access to over 80 miles of stunning coastline, featuring a diverse array of beaches perfect for tidepooling, leisurely walks, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Before you embark on your adventure, please take a moment to familiarize yourself with important guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. While the beaches offer spectacular views and experiences, swimming and wading are not recommended due to cold ocean temperatures, which can drop to as low as 50°F (10°C), and potential hazards such as hypothermia, sneaker waves, and rip currents.

Welcome to Drakes Beach, a stunning natural feature located within the breathtaking Point Reyes National Seashore in Point Reyes Station, California. With approximately 80 miles of diverse shoreline, our beaches offer a unique blend of rocky areas perfect for tidepooling and vast sandy stretches ideal for a leisurely walk. Before visiting, we recommend checking our Current Conditions page for any potential closures or advisories. Please be aware that not all beaches are suitable for swimming or wading, particularly for young children, due to cold ocean temperatures, which can reach as low as 50°F (10°C), and potential hazards like hypothermia, sneaker waves, and rip currents.

Welcome to Chimney Rock at Point Reyes Station, California, your gateway to the breathtaking natural beauty of Point Reyes National Seashore. Nestled at the heart of one of California’s most stunning landscapes, Chimney Rock offers a myriad of hiking opportunities that invite you to explore the diverse ecosystems of this remarkable region. Whether you're seeking solitude in the serene Douglas-fir forests, yearning for panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean, or eager to wander across the picturesque coastal hillsides, Chimney Rock provides a hiking experience that caters to all adventurers. Each trail promises a unique journey through some of the most scenic habitats in the area—perfect for both quick, family-friendly strolls and more challenging treks for the seasoned hiker.

Welcome to Tomales Point Trailhead, an enchanting gateway to the natural wonders of Point Reyes National Seashore, located at Pierce Point Road, Inverness, California. This park offers an abundance of hiking opportunities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Whether you desire solitude amidst the majestic Douglas-fir forests, crave panoramic views of the vast Pacific Ocean, or wish to explore the rolling coastal hillsides, you can experience it all in a single hike. Before setting out on your adventure, ensure you have a trail map, which can be downloaded or purchased at a park bookstore. For additional hiking tips and information, visit our Hiking at Point Reyes National Seashore page. Our guide allows you to search for hikes based on time, habitat, or location, ensuring you find the perfect trail for your needs.

Welcome to Indian Beach, a serene natural feature located within Tomales Bay State Park on the picturesque Point Reyes Peninsula in Inverness, California. Nestled at the end of the Indian Nature Trail, Indian Beach is a hidden gem just a half-mile hike from Heart’s Desire Beach, where ample parking and facilities await. As you arrive at Indian Beach Cove, a charming boardwalk will lead you over a tranquil waterway from the surrounding wetlands, unveiling the pristine beauty of the beach. Here, you can explore two reconstructed cone-shaped Miwok bark shelters, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the Coastal Miwok Native Americans who inhabited this region for thousands of years. Educational interpretive signs along the self-guided Indian Beach Nature Trail provide fascinating insights into the area's cultural and natural heritage.

Welcome to Limantour Beach, a serene natural feature located within the breathtaking Point Reyes National Seashore, in Point Reyes Station, California. Spanning approximately 80 miles of stunning shoreline, Point Reyes offers a diverse array of beach experiences, from rocky tide pools to vast sandy stretches perfect for a leisurely walk. Before visiting, please check our Current Conditions page for any potential closures or advisories. While the beaches are a beautiful destination, not all are suitable for swimming or wading, particularly for young children, due to cold ocean temperatures averaging around 10°C (50°F). Visitors should also be mindful of natural hazards such as hypothermia, sneaker waves, and rip currents.

Welcome to Tomales Bay Trailhead, your gateway to the breathtaking natural beauty of Point Reyes National Seashore, located at Tomales Bay Trail, Point Reyes Station, California. Nestled amidst thunderous ocean breakers, rocky headlands, expansive sand beaches, and diverse ecosystems, our park offers an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. With over 1,500 species of plants and animals, Point Reyes is a haven for wildlife observation and ecological discovery. Steeped in rich cultural history, the Seashore preserves stories and interactions of various cultures over thousands of years. Whether you're here to hike our seemingly endless trails, explore the diverse habitats, or simply unwind in nature's embrace, Point Reyes awaits your exploration. Begin your journey at one of our three visitor centers, where you can grab maps, learn about the park, and plan your visit with our knowledgeable staff.

Welcome to Bear Valley Trailhead, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Point Reyes National Seashore. Located at Bear Valley Visitor Center Access Road, Point Reyes Station, California, our park offers a diverse range of hiking opportunities for all adventurers. Whether you're seeking solitude in the serene Douglas-fir forests, breathtaking views of the majestic Pacific Ocean, or a journey across rolling coastal hills, Bear Valley Trailhead has it all. Before embarking on your adventure, we highly recommend downloading a trail map or purchasing one at our park bookstore for a safe and informed hiking experience. For further guidance and tips, explore our Hiking at Point Reyes National Seashore page.

Welcome to Glen Campground, your serene escape nestled in the heart of Point Reyes Station, California. Situated in the scenic 94956 area, our campground offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and comfortable lodging, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and families alike. At Glen Campground, we pride ourselves on providing a peaceful retreat where you can unwind and reconnect with nature. Our spacious sites are designed to accommodate tents and RVs, ensuring a comfortable stay for campers of all preferences. Surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, our grounds are perfect for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the tranquil ambiance of the great outdoors.

Welcome to Kehoe Beach Trailhead, a scenic gem nestled within the breathtaking Point Reyes National Seashore, located at Kehoe Beach Trail, Inverness, California 94937. This beautiful park offers a diverse shoreline stretching approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles), featuring both rocky tidepool areas and expansive sandy beaches perfect for leisurely walks. Before planning your visit, we recommend checking our Current Conditions page for any potential closures or advisories. While the beaches are inviting, please be aware that not all are suitable for swimming or wading, particularly for young children, due to ocean temperatures dipping as low as 10°C (50°F) and potential hazards like hypothermia, sneaker waves, and rip currents.

Welcome to Cypress Grove & Sea Lion Point Parking Lot Located at 62 Point Lobos, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, the Cypress Grove & Sea Lion Point Parking Lot serves as your gateway to the breathtaking beauty of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, often hailed as "The crown jewel of the California State Park System." This convenient parking facility is situated just three miles south of Carmel on Highway 1, making it an ideal starting point for your exploration of this iconic reserve.

Welcome to Gate 1 - Garrapata State Park, a stunning natural retreat located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Nestled along the iconic Highway 1, just 6.7 miles south of Rio Road and 18 miles north of Big Sur, our park offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Garrapata State Park boasts two miles of breathtaking beachfront, perfect for coastal hiking and exploring. A 50-foot climb rewards visitors with a mesmerizing view of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, a federally protected marine area teeming with wildlife. Discover diverse coastal vegetation as you traverse trails that lead from sandy shores into dense redwood groves. The park's Soberanes Point features magnificent coastal headlands, where sea lions, harbor seals, and sea otters can be spotted frolicking in the waters, while California gray whales grace us with their presence during their annual migration.

Welcome to Gate 7 - Garrapata State Park Located in the picturesque Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, Garrapata State Park offers visitors a breathtaking gateway to the natural beauty of the Big Sur coast. Situated just 6.7 miles south of Rio Road in Carmel and 18 miles north of Big Sur, the park is easily accessible via Highway 1. Visitors should be mindful of travel delays due to a new traffic signal managing one-lane alternating traffic.

Welcome to Gate 9 - Garrapata State Park Nestled along the iconic Highway 1, just 6.7 miles south of Rio Road in Carmel and 18 miles north of Big Sur, Gate 9 - Garrapata State Park offers a breathtaking escape into nature's grandeur. Located in the picturesque Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, our park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Welcome to Drakes Estero Trailhead, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Point Reyes National Seashore in Inverness, California. Nestled in the heart of nature, our park offers endless hiking opportunities that promise solitude in lush Douglas-fir forests, panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, and the chance to traverse rolling coastal hillsides—all within a single hike! Before you set off on your adventure, ensure you're prepared by downloading or purchasing a trail map from our park bookstore. For additional hiking tips and information on the diverse trails available, please visit our 'Hiking at Point Reyes National Seashore' page. Whether you're short on time, exploring with family, or seeking a challenging route, our guide will help you find the perfect trail based on your schedule, desired habitat, or starting location.

Welcome to Mill Creek Trailhead, your gateway to the breathtaking natural beauty of Big Sur, California. Nestled in the heart of the majestic Los Padres National Forest, our park offers an unforgettable outdoor experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Located at Mill Creek Trail Big Sur, Big Sur, California 93920, Mill Creek Trailhead provides access to a network of scenic trails that wind through lush forests, alongside babbling creeks, and up to stunning vistas overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Our park is perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and photography, with trails suitable for all skill levels. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll through towering redwoods or a challenging hike to panoramic viewpoints, Mill Creek Trailhead has something for everyone. Enjoy the tranquility of nature, the fresh coastal air, and the diverse wildlife that call this area home.