Crescent Beach Overlook
A stunning coastal viewpoint offering panoramic Pacific vistas, dramatic sunsets, and potential whale sightings. A short hike reveals more.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Crescent Beach Overlook
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning coastal viewpoint offering panoramic Pacific vistas, dramatic sunsets, and potential whale sightings. A short hike reveals more.
"This overlook reveals miles of beach, the harbor of Crescent City, and views of jagged off-shore sea stacks."
Wear Comfy Shoes
The short hike down to the beach can be narrow and overgrown. :athletic_shoe:
Check the Fog Forecast
Fog can obscure views, but also adds a mystical forest vibe. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Expansive Ocean Vistas
Main Overlook Platform
Panoramic views of the Pacific, coastline, and Crescent City harbor. Absolutely breathtaking!
Sunset Spectacle
Overlook Platform
Witness a 'false' sunset followed by the real one – a truly magical coastal display.
Wildlife Spotting
Overlook and surrounding trails
Keep an eye out for whales during migration season and abundant marine life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Coastal Views
Embrace the Short Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfy Shoes
The short hike down to the beach can be narrow and overgrown. :athletic_shoe:
Check the Fog Forecast
Fog can obscure views, but also adds a mystical forest vibe. :cloud:
Free to Visit!
No tickets needed for this stunning coastal viewpoint. :moneywithwings:
Sunset Magic
Don't leave after the first sunset; a second, real one often follows! :sparkler:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfy Shoes
The short hike down to the beach can be narrow and overgrown. :athletic_shoe:
Check the Fog Forecast
Fog can obscure views, but also adds a mystical forest vibe. :cloud:
Free to Visit!
No tickets needed for this stunning coastal viewpoint. :moneywithwings:
Sunset Magic
Don't leave after the first sunset; a second, real one often follows! :sparkler:
Leave No Trace
Help preserve this beautiful public space for everyone. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking ocean views and spectacular sunsets at Crescent Beach Overlook, calling it a must-see spot. The short hike to Endert's Beach and the chance for wildlife sightings are also highly praised. Some mention that fog can obscure views, and the trail to the beach can be narrow.
"There are a few connecting trails at this entrance, but I was in a bit of a hurry so took the compact 1.3mi hike down to Endert’s beach. Great payoffs for not much effort. Worth the stop even if you don’t make it for low tide to see the tide pools.
It was foggy when i visited which obscured the ocean from some viewpoints, but it added a sort of mystique to the forest. Lots of bunnies and blackberry bushes along the trail. The switchback path leading down to the beach is quite narrow with overgrowth."
Christine C
"Part of Redwood National and State Parks, located a few miles south of Crescent City, CA.
The overlook is accessed via a short drive down Enderts Beach Road, which begins off U.S. Highway 101.
A small parking area is available at the trailhead.
Highlights:
🔭 Fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean, beaches, and harbor.
🚶 Short paved trail leading to the overlook platform."
Revathi Raja Kumar
"Super cool lookout spot. A must see for all visitors. Don’t miss out on this location. No tickets required absolutely free"
Daniel Mula
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The overlook is easily accessible via a short drive down Enderts Beach Road, which branches off U.S. Highway 101, just south of Crescent City, CA. There's a small parking area at the trailhead.
Yes, Crescent Beach Overlook is part of the Redwood National and State Parks system, offering a beautiful coastal complement to the forest hikes.
The drive from San Francisco to Crescent Beach Overlook is approximately 7 hours, offering scenic coastal and forest views along the way.
Absolutely! Crescent City is very close to the overlook, making it a convenient stop for those staying in the area.
Yes, there is a small, convenient parking area available at the trailhead for the overlook.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Crescent Beach Overlook is absolutely free. It's a public viewpoint meant for everyone to enjoy.
Crescent Beach Overlook is an outdoor natural attraction and is generally accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and the best views.
There is no entrance fee required to visit Crescent Beach Overlook. It's a free public access point.
Yes, there are connecting trails from the overlook area that lead down to Endert's Beach, which is a great spot for tide pooling during low tide.
While the overlook itself doesn't directly face Battery Point Lighthouse, it's a short drive away in Crescent City and worth visiting separately if you're interested in lighthouses.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon during the golden hour offers stunning light for photography, especially for sunsets. Early mornings can also provide beautiful, clear light. 
The main overlook platform provides the most expansive views. For more dramatic shots, consider hiking down to Endert's Beach for different perspectives of the coastline and sea stacks.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast ocean vistas. If you're interested in wildlife, a telephoto lens can be useful for spotting whales.
Drone usage regulations can vary, especially within national park areas. It's best to check the official Redwood National and State Parks website for current drone policies before flying.
Visiting during stormy weather or after a storm can lead to impressive wave action. However, always prioritize safety and observe from a safe distance.
🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy breathtaking ocean views, spot wildlife like whales, and take a short hike down to Endert's Beach. It's also a prime spot for sunset viewing.
Restroom facilities are not explicitly mentioned at the overlook itself, but they may be available at nearby park facilities or in Crescent City.
The main trail to the overlook platform is paved, but the path leading down to Endert's Beach can be narrow and overgrown.
Besides bunnies and blackberry bushes along the trails, keep an eye out for marine life like seals and whales, especially during migration seasons.
Yes, there is a picnic area available, making it a great spot for a scenic lunch or snack.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the hike down to Endert's Beach if your children are up for a bit more adventure. It’s a chance for them to explore the shoreline, look for shells, and experience the coastal environment more directly. Pack snacks and water, and be mindful of the narrow trail sections. The picnic area is also a plus for a family meal with a view.
📸 Photographers
+1Aim for the golden hour in the late afternoon for the most magical light, and be prepared for the unique 'double sunset' phenomenon. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the grandeur of the ocean and sky. Don't forget to explore the trails down to Endert's Beach for varied compositions, including sea stacks and the shoreline.
🚗 Road Trippers
Whether you're driving from San Francisco or heading further north, this overlook offers a refreshing dose of coastal grandeur. It's a chance to stretch your legs, soak in the ocean air, and capture some incredible photos without straying far from your route. The free admission and ample parking add to its road-trip-friendly appeal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Coastal Hike
Be prepared for a bit of an incline on the return journey. The path winds through coastal vegetation, offering glimpses of the ocean and the sounds of the waves. It’s a fantastic opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the Northern California coast up close. Remember to wear sturdy footwear, as the trail can be uneven.
This hike is a key part of the 'hidden gem' appeal of Crescent Beach Overlook, as it requires a little more effort than simply pulling over. The reward is a more intimate connection with the landscape, making it a memorable part of any visit.
Chasing Sunsets: A Double Feature
This double sunset effect is a result of atmospheric conditions and the specific topography of the coastline. It creates an extended period of beautiful, changing light, perfect for photographers and anyone looking to witness a truly memorable natural event. Arriving in the late afternoon is highly recommended to experience this phenomenon.
Many visitors express being 'shook' by the beauty of the sunset here, with some noting that pictures simply don't do it justice. The vibrant colors painting the sky and reflecting on the water make it a must-see experience.
Wildlife Encounters on the Coast
Whale watching is a significant draw, particularly during the spring and fall migration periods. Even if you don't see whales, keep an eye out for seals playing in the surf or seabirds soaring overhead. The overlook provides a fantastic vantage point for scanning the ocean.
Beyond marine life, the trails leading down to Endert's Beach are known to have bunnies and abundant blackberry bushes, adding to the natural charm of the area. It’s a reminder that nature thrives in all its forms along this stunning stretch of coast.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit