Wildlife watching near beach in California

Huntington State Beach, located in Huntington Beach, California, is a popular tourist attraction and park spanning 121 acres. Visitors can enjoy activities such as surfing, swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and beach volleyball. The beach features fire rings for bonfires, basketball courts, and a multi-use trail for biking and walking. The beach is also known for its historical significance in the world of surfing, earning the nickname "Surf City USA." Lifeguard services are available year-round, and the beach is home to a variety of bird species, including endangered California Least Terns and Snowy Plovers. Visitors can also enjoy surf fishing and watch grunion runs during the summer. The beach does not allow camping, alcohol, charcoal grills, or dogs on the sand. For more information on park regulations and reservations, visitors can contact the park reception during business hours.

South Beach is a stunning natural feature located at 245 Anchor Way in Crescent City, California, United States. This picturesque stretch of coastline offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular destination for visitors looking to relax, take a leisurely stroll, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature. With its sandy shores, rolling waves, and scenic surroundings, South Beach is the perfect spot for a peaceful day by the sea. Whether you're a local resident or a tourist passing through, South Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Northern California's coast.

Pudding Creek Beach is a picturesque natural feature located in California, United States. This stunning beach offers visitors a peaceful and serene escape with its sandy shores and beautiful ocean views. The beach is a popular spot for picnicking, sunbathing, and beachcombing, as well as for enjoying the sound of the waves crashing against the shore. Visitors can also explore the nearby trails and enjoy the abundant wildlife that calls Pudding Creek Beach home. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the water or a scenic hike along the coast, Pudding Creek Beach has something for everyone to enjoy.

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.

Bean Hollow State Beach is a stunning natural feature located in California, United States. This beautiful beach is known for its unique rock formations, tide pools, and sandy shores, making it a popular destination for visitors looking to enjoy a day by the ocean. Whether you're interested in exploring the diverse marine life in the tide pools or simply relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun, Bean Hollow State Beach offers something for everyone to enjoy. With its picturesque views and tranquil atmosphere, it's the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature.

Montara State Beach, located at 8150 Cabrillo Highway in Montara, California, is a beautiful park popular for sunbathing, strolling, nature study, and surfing. The beach features high bluffs, a sandy shore, and stunning views of Montara Mountain. The park does not offer camping but is a great spot for a day trip. Nearby towns provide restaurants and grocery stores for convenience. The beach is dog-friendly, as long as pets are kept on a leash. Visitors are reminded not to collect shells or driftwood, and beach fires are not allowed. The park is also home to the Point Montara Lighthouse, which offers overnight accommodations through Hosteling International. McNee Ranch, part of the park, offers winding trails and coastal views. Permits are required for events and weddings, and a photography permit is needed for commercial photography. The park is supported by the Coastside State Parks Association and the Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks. Visitors can join the mailing list to stay informed about events and activities at the park.

Scott Creek County Beach is a picturesque tourist attraction located in Davenport, California, United States. This beautiful beach offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a popular destination for beachgoers looking to relax and unwind. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing on the sandy shores, exploring the tide pools, and even catching a glimpse of the local wildlife. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled day by the water, Scott Creek County Beach is the perfect place to escape and enjoy the natural beauty of the California coast.

Natural Bridges State Beach, located at 2531 West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, California, is a beautiful park and beach that offers stunning views of shore birds, migrating whales, seals, and otters. The park features public access tide pools where visitors can see sea stars, shore crabs, and other colorful ocean life during low tides. The park also includes a Monarch Grove where thousands of Monarch Butterflies overwinter, creating a "city in the trees" from late fall to winter. In addition to the natural beauty of the park, visitors can participate in guided hikes, backpacking adventures, and other public programs offered by California State Parks. The park also has a picnic area with tables, barbecues, and restroom facilities for day-use visitors. Please note that there is a $10 vehicle day-use fee to enter the park.

Lighthouse Field State Beach, located in Santa Cruz, California, is a popular park and tourist attraction. This area, also known as Point Santa Cruz, offers stunning views of Monterey Bay and is one of the last open headlands in any California urban area. Visitors can enjoy surfing, bird watching, and even spot sea lions on the offshore rocks. The park is also home to the rare Black Swift and wintering Monarch butterflies. One unique feature of Lighthouse Field State Beach is the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, located in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse on West Cliff Drive. This museum showcases over 100 years of surfing history in Santa Cruz with photographs, surfboards, and other interesting items.

Hole In The Wall Beach is a picturesque park located along California 1 in Santa Cruz, California, United States. This hidden gem offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is known for its unique rock formations and tide pools. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, beachcombing, and exploring the natural beauty of the coastline. The park is a popular spot for picnics, surfing, and birdwatching. With its peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Hole In The Wall Beach is the perfect destination for a relaxing day by the sea.

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.

Del Monte Beach is a picturesque natural feature located in Monterey, California, United States. With its pristine sandy shores and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, this beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and picnicking. Del Monte Beach is also a great spot for watching the sunset or taking a leisurely stroll along the water's edge. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or get active in the water, Del Monte Beach offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Morro Strand State Beach Day Use Area, located at 21 24th Street in Cayucos, California, is a natural feature that offers a three-mile stretch of beach for visitors to enjoy. The beach connects the town of Morro Bay to Cayucos State Beach and provides a variety of recreational opportunities such as windsurfing, fishing, jogging, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging at the Morro Strand Campground up to six months in advance, with options for tent camping and RV hookups available. The campground also offers amenities such as fire rings, picnic tables, water spigots, flush toilets, and token-operated shower facilities. Additionally, there is an RV sanitation station and water-fill station on site.

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.

Encinitas Beach County Park is a stunning natural feature located in Encinitas, California, United States. This picturesque park offers visitors a pristine stretch of sandy beach, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The park also features grassy picnic areas, volleyball courts, and stunning ocean views. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or enjoy a game of beach volleyball, Encinitas Beach County Park is the perfect destination for a day of fun in the sun.

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.

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.

Royal Palms Beach Park is a stunning natural feature located in Los Angeles, California, United States. This picturesque beach park offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its pristine sandy shores and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you're looking to relax in the sun, take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, or enjoy a picnic with loved ones, Royal Palms Beach Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and beachgoers alike. So come and experience the beauty and serenity of this hidden gem on the California coast.

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.

Mad River Beach is a stunning natural feature located at 40 California 124 in Ione, California, United States. This picturesque beach offers breathtaking views of the Mad River and surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy a day of relaxation, sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking in this tranquil setting. The beach is a popular spot for nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to unwind and connect with the beauty of the great outdoors. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape or a fun day out with family and friends, Mad River Beach is the perfect destination for a memorable experience.

Newport Beach Municipal Beach is a popular tourist attraction located in Newport Beach, California, United States. This beautiful beach offers pristine white sands, crystal clear waters, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and surfing. The beach is also equipped with amenities such as restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, making it the perfect spot for a fun day out with family and friends. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or get active and adventurous, Newport Beach Municipal Beach has something for everyone to enjoy.

4S Beach Campground is a picturesque campground located in Winterhaven, California, United States. Situated on the banks of the lower Colorado River, this campground offers a unique experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Dogs are welcome in developed areas such as roads and campgrounds, but are not allowed on beaches or trails. Online reservations are not available for this park, so be sure to plan ahead. Access to the park can be made via Picacho Road or Indian Pass Road, both of which require high clearance, 4x4 vehicles capable of traversing varying terrain. The park is rich in history, once a gold mining town with 100 citizens, now a popular destination for boaters, hikers, anglers, and campers. The diverse scenery includes beavertail cactus, wild burros, bighorn sheep, and migratory waterfowl.

Welcome to Little Sur River Beach, your serene escape nestled along the picturesque coastline of Monterey, California. Located just a short drive from the heart of the city, this hidden gem offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility. Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes where the Little Sur River gently meets the Pacific Ocean, creating a unique and enchanting environment ideal for relaxation and exploration. Little Sur River Beach is renowned for its pristine sandy shores, lush surroundings, and breathtaking views that captivate visitors of all ages. Whether you're planning a family outing, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, our beach provides the perfect backdrop for picnics, sunbathing, and leisurely strolls. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse wildlife and flora that thrive in this coastal haven, offering countless photography opportunities and a chance to reconnect with nature.

Welcome to Stump Beach, a captivating natural feature nestled along the scenic coastline of California. Located in the heart of Sonoma County, Stump Beach offers visitors a unique and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Known for its stunning landscapes and tranquil ambiance, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. The beach is characterized by its picturesque shoreline, dotted with intriguing rock formations and driftwood, which lend the area its distinctive name. Whether you're looking to explore the rugged beauty of the coastline, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, or simply relax and soak in the breathtaking ocean views, Stump Beach provides the perfect setting.

Welcome to Bodega Dunes Beach, a stunning natural feature located in the picturesque Jenner, California 95450, United States. Nestled in the heart of Sonoma County, just north of San Francisco, Bodega Dunes Beach offers an unparalleled camping experience where life truly opens up. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent in a serene forest, a regional park with views of lush vineyards, or along the breathtaking Pacific coast, this destination has something for every outdoor enthusiast. For those seeking a touch of luxury, indulge in a glamorous glamping experience at one of the nearby RV resorts. Sonoma County is a paradise for RV travelers, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern comforts. Our commitment to preserving the environment ensures that this pristine landscape can be enjoyed for generations to come. We invite you to explore our Sustainable Travel page and familiarize yourself with the Leave No Trace Seven Principles to help protect and preserve the area's natural resources.

Welcome to Doran Beach, a stunning natural gem nestled along the picturesque coastline of Bodega Bay, California. Located at 201 Doran Beach Road, Bodega Bay, CA 94923, Doran Beach offers a serene escape where the beauty of nature takes center stage. Known for its expansive sandy shores and tranquil waters, this idyllic beach is perfect for family outings, romantic strolls, and outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as beachcombing, picnicking, birdwatching, and kite flying. The gentle waves make it an ideal spot for kayaking and paddleboarding, while the scenic vistas provide a breathtaking backdrop for photography enthusiasts. Whether you're a local resident or a traveler seeking a peaceful retreat, Doran Beach invites you to immerse yourself in the natural splendor and rejuvenate your spirit. Come and experience the captivating allure of Doran Beach, where nature's beauty meets coastal charm.

Welcome to Carmet Beach, a stunning natural feature located in the picturesque Bodega Bay, California. Nestled along the rugged coastline of the Pacific Ocean, Carmet Beach offers visitors a serene and breathtaking escape from the everyday hustle and bustle. Known for its pristine sandy shores, dramatic cliffs, and panoramic ocean views, it is the perfect destination for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking tranquility in a stunning natural setting. Whether you're strolling along the beach, exploring the tide pools, or simply relaxing with the sound of the waves, Carmet Beach provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature. The beach is also a popular spot for picnicking, bird watching, and enjoying spectacular sunsets. With its unspoiled beauty and peaceful ambiance, Carmet Beach invites you to unwind and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the California coast.

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 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.