The 30 Best Parking near coastal attractions in California

The San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park Visitor Center is a must-visit tourist attraction and travel agency located at 499 Jefferson Street in San Francisco, California, United States. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and stories of Pacific Coast maritime history as you explore the historic ships, Visitor Center, Maritime Museum, Maritime Research Center, and Aquatic Park Historic District. Step aboard a 1907 tugboat and experience the Post-Victorian era of steel and steam. Don't miss the "Better Lives, Bitter Lies" podcast episode on preserving historic ships, or join a ranger-led singing of sea shanties. Learn about ongoing projects and become a San Francisco Maritime Agent of Discovery. Visit the fleet of historic vessels at Hyde Street Pier, or explore the Maritime Museum in the historic Aquatic Park Bathhouse Building. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a unique experience in San Francisco, the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park Visitor Center is a must-see destination.

Fort Ord Dunes State Park, located in Marina, California, United States, is a popular tourist attraction opened to the public in 2009. Covering nearly 1,000 acres of public land, the park offers 4 miles of ocean beach with stunning views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Visitors can explore the dunes and beaches, home to many endangered species, while staying on designated trails to protect the sensitive habitats. Dogs are allowed on the recreation trail that runs through the park, but not on spur trails to the beach or on the beach itself. At the main parking area, visitors can learn about the former Fort Ord US Army Base and the natural history of the park through educational panels. Additionally, a mobile phone audio tour is available for those interested in the cultural and natural features of Fort Ord. Public access is limited to designated roads and trails open to bicyclists, hikers, and dogs on leash.

Castro Adobe State Historic Park is located at 184 Old Adobe Road in Watsonville, California. This park is a popular tourist attraction and offers a glimpse into the Mexican Rancho period of the mid-1800s. Visitors can take a free 90-minute guided tour of the two-story Rancho San Andrés Castro Adobe, which was built on a nearly 9,000-acre rancho granted to Jose Joaquin Castro. The park offers guided hikes, public programs, and special events throughout the year. Visitors can explore the fandango room, learn about vaquero culture, and see one of the last remaining indoor cocinas in California. The park also offers virtual tours and videos showcasing the restoration efforts at the Castro Adobe. Funding for the restoration is provided by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks, who also support educational programs and capital projects at parks in the Santa Cruz area.

Crystal Cove State Park Historic District is a charming coastal haven located in Newport Beach, California. This picturesque park offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its collection of vintage beach cottages dating back to the 1920s and 1930s. The historic district is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from near and far to explore its quaint seaside village atmosphere. Whether you're looking to relax on the sandy shores, take a leisurely stroll through the charming cottages, or enjoy a picnic with a stunning ocean view, Crystal Cove State Park Historic District is the perfect destination for a day of outdoor adventure and relaxation.

Highway 1 / Big Sur State Park is a scenic transit station located in California, United States. Situated along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, this station serves as a gateway to the breathtaking Big Sur State Park. Travelers passing through can enjoy stunning views of the rugged coastline, towering redwood forests, and abundant wildlife. Whether you are stopping to explore the park or simply taking in the beauty of the surroundings, Highway 1 / Big Sur State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling along the California coast.

Goldenwest Transportation Center/Park-And-Ride is a convenient parking facility located at 7301 Center Avenue in Huntington Beach, California. This park-and-ride institution offers easy access to public transportation, making it a convenient option for commuters and travelers. Additionally, visitors can download an inspiring guide to Surf City USA's beaches, dining options, local attractions, activities, and surfing. By signing up for Surf City USA news, guests can stay informed about the latest events and happenings in Huntington Beach. Don't miss out on all the excitement - visit Goldenwest Transportation Center/Park-And-Ride today!

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Vista Point is a breathtaking overlook located in Big Sur, California, United States. Situated within the stunning Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, this vista point offers visitors panoramic views of the rugged coastline, towering redwoods, and picturesque McWay Falls. The park is a popular destination for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts looking to explore the beauty of the California coast. With its peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Vista Point is the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature.

Mal Coombs Park is a picturesque park located in Whitethorn, California, on the southwest side of the small town of Shelter Cove. The park offers stunning views of a small rocky beach below, with interpretive panels for visitors to learn more about the area. Amenities at the park include a parking lot, picnic tables, a native plant garden, BBQ pit, and public restrooms. Visitors can explore tide pools at low tide to see the abundant marine life. The park is also home to the restored Cape Mendocino Lighthouse, which was relocated to the park in 1998. To reach Mal Coombs Park, take U.S. 101 to the Redway/Garberville exit and follow signs to Shelter Cove/King Range NCA on Briceland/Thorn and Shelter Cove Roads. Turn left onto Upper Pacific Road and follow it until merging onto Lower Pacific Road, where the park is located on the left side. Enjoy the natural beauty and history of Mal Coombs Park during your visit.

Hardie Park is a charming and picturesque park located on B Street in the coastal town of Cayucos, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful escape for visitors looking to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. With lush greenery, stunning ocean views, and plenty of recreational activities, Hardie Park is the perfect destination for picnics, leisurely strolls, and family gatherings. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or simply soak up the California sunshine, Hardie Park is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Central Coast.

Agate Beach County Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 350 Ocean Parkway in Bolinas, California, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the ocean and is known for its abundance of agate stones that can be found along the shoreline. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, beachcombing, and relaxing in this peaceful coastal setting. With its sandy beaches and gentle waves, Agate Beach County Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Mad River Beach County Park is a picturesque park located at 1 Mad River Road in Arcata, California, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Mad River Estuary. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, beachcombing, and birdwatching in this serene coastal setting. The park is also a great spot for fishing and surfing. With its sandy shores and beautiful scenery, Mad River Beach County Park is the perfect destination for a relaxing day by the sea.

Moonstone Beach County Park is a picturesque park located in Trinidad, California, United States. This stunning coastal destination is a popular tourist attraction known for its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and its abundance of moonstones scattered along the shoreline. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the sandy beach, explore tide pools, and watch the sunset over the ocean. The park is a perfect spot for picnics, beachcombing, and relaxation amidst the natural beauty of the California coast. Whether you're looking to unwind and soak in the serene atmosphere or simply take in the stunning scenery, Moonstone Beach County Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Big River Beach at Mendocino Headlands State Park is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in Mendocino, California, United States. The park offers gentle trails, rugged coastline, secluded beaches, and timeless history surrounding the Village of Mendocino. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views of sea arches and hidden grottos along miles of cliffside trails. Whether visiting in spring for wildflowers, fall for clear days, summer for cool climate, or winter for whale migrations, Mendocino Headlands State Park offers a memorable experience. Activities include hiking, surfing, fishing, and wildlife watching. The park also includes the Historic Ford House, a museum and Visitors Center providing information on the park's history. Big River Beach, part of the park's 7,400-acre wildlife corridor, is a popular spot for picnicking, sunbathing, and surfing. The Mendocino Music Festival is held at the Headlands each July, featuring performances by outstanding musicians. Admission to Mendocino Headlands State Park is free for day use only. With its diverse natural, ecological, cultural, and social diversity, Mendocino Headlands State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

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.

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.

Smith Field Park is a picturesque park located in Half Moon Bay, California, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty, including lush greenery and rolling hills. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, and taking in the fresh ocean air at this peaceful and serene park. With its well-maintained walking paths and scenic vistas, Smith Field Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Sister City Park is a charming and picturesque park located along the stunning Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail in Monterey, California. This park serves as a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a peaceful and scenic retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, serene atmosphere, and beautiful ocean views, Sister City Park is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the natural beauty of the California coast. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with loved ones, or simply soak in the breathtaking surroundings, Sister City Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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.

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.

Baywood Park Pier is a historic institution located at 601-639 El Moro Avenue in San Luis Obispo, California, United States. This park features a picturesque pier that is the fourth to have been built in the small community of Baywood Park. Initially funded by the Chamber of Commerce in 1955, the pier was rebuilt after being destroyed by a storm in 1983. The Baywood Navy now maintains the pier and hosts their annual Boatzart in the Bay concert on its deck. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the bay and participate in various activities at this charming waterfront park. Don't forget to sign up for a free Highway 1 Beaches map to discover the best beaches for your road trip along Highway 1.

Ebb Tide Park is a serene and picturesque park located at 319 Ebb Tide Lane in Pismo Beach, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the ocean, sandy beaches, and beautiful sunsets. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the walking paths, have a picnic in the designated areas, or simply relax and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings. With its peaceful atmosphere and convenient location, Ebb Tide Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and those looking to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

South Palisades Park is a stunning coastal park located in Pismo Beach, California. Situated along Beachcomber Drive, this popular tourist attraction offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. With lush greenery, walking paths, and oceanfront benches, South Palisades Park is a peaceful oasis where visitors can unwind and enjoy the beauty of the California coast. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, take in the ocean breeze, or simply admire the picturesque scenery, a visit to South Palisades Park is sure to be a memorable experience.

Coastal Dunes RV Park is a picturesque campground located at 1001 Pacific Boulevard in Oceano, California. Nestled along the stunning coastline, this park offers a unique lodging experience for RV enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding dunes and ocean views while staying at this peaceful and well-maintained park. With spacious RV sites, modern amenities, and a convenient location near local attractions, Coastal Dunes RV Park is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway in the United States.

Jalama Beach County Park is a stunning coastal park located at 9999 Jalama Road in Lompoc, California, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers a picturesque setting with sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and breathtaking ocean views. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, surfing, fishing, picnicking, and camping. The park also features amenities such as restrooms, showers, and a convenience store. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the beach or an adventurous camping trip, Jalama Beach County Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Rincon Beach County Park is a beautiful coastal park located in Carpinteria, California. Situated along Via Real, this popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a perfect spot for picnics, beachcombing, and soaking up the sun. Visitors can also enjoy activities such as surfing, swimming, and wildlife watching. With its sandy shores and gentle waves, Rincon Beach County Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

North Seascape Surf Park is a stunning natural feature located in Solana Beach, California, United States. This picturesque park offers breathtaking views of the North Sea, making it a popular destination for surfers and nature enthusiasts alike. With its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and world-class waves, North Seascape Surf Park provides the perfect setting for a day of surfing, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the beauty of the ocean. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or just looking to relax by the water, this park is sure to impress with its serene atmosphere and stunning coastal scenery.

Pacific Beach Park is a picturesque seaside park located at 1405 Diamond Street in San Diego, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is the perfect spot for picnics, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. With its sandy shores and gentle waves, Pacific Beach Park is a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're looking to relax in the sun or take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, this park is the ideal place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the California coast.

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.

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.

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.