Asilomar Dunes Natural Preserve
A restored coastal gem with scenic boardwalks, vibrant tide pools, and abundant wildlife. Experience nature's resilience and beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Asilomar Dunes Natural Preserve
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A restored coastal gem with scenic boardwalks, vibrant tide pools, and abundant wildlife. Experience nature's resilience and beauty.
"Gorgeous beach. Highly recommend the boardwalk trail. Really appreciate the conservation efforts."
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early or on a weekday to snag a parking spot. Locals frequent this spot, so be patient!
🌬️ Layer Up!
It's often breezy and cool by the ocean, even on sunny days. Bring a jacket!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Boardwalk Trail
Along the coastline
Winding boardwalk offering stunning views of restored dunes and native blooms. A peaceful stroll through nature's resilience.
Tide Pools
Rocky coves
Discover vibrant marine life in sweet little cove beaches with amazing tide pools. Check tide charts for the best viewing times.
Wildlife Spotting
Coastal areas
Keep an eye out for sea otters and a variety of sea birds along the shore. A delight for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Pointers
Dress for the Breeze
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early or on a weekday to snag a parking spot. Locals frequent this spot, so be patient!
🌬️ Layer Up!
It's often breezy and cool by the ocean, even on sunny days. Bring a jacket!
🌊 Respect Sneaker Waves
Be aware of sudden large waves and strong currents. Never turn your back on the ocean.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Strolls
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry friend.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early or on a weekday to snag a parking spot. Locals frequent this spot, so be patient!
🌬️ Layer Up!
It's often breezy and cool by the ocean, even on sunny days. Bring a jacket!
🌊 Respect Sneaker Waves
Be aware of sudden large waves and strong currents. Never turn your back on the ocean.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Strolls
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry friend.
🌿 Appreciate Conservation
Notice the efforts to restore native plants and sand dunes. It's a beautiful example of nature healing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning coastal views, easy boardwalk trails, and the chance to see wildlife like sea otters and birds. The tide pools are a major draw, offering a glimpse into marine life. However, parking is frequently cited as a significant challenge, and visitors are warned about sneaker waves and strong currents.
"I could see how it could get busy here, and not a lot of places to park, but. Overall, we great views, great walk.Great beach"
Robertas Travelings
"There are lots of easy trails along the coast. We walked our dogs, and they loved it. We were able to spot sea otters and a variety of sea birds . The view is wonderful. Be prepared to dress for a strong, cool breeze coming off the water."
Rebecca Conway
"Amazing tidepools and sweet little cove beaches, but parking is at a premium. If you're visiting from out of town, you'll be fighting locals. Beware.
PSA: this area is gorgeous, but also prone to sneaker waves (sudden large waves, even when the ocean seems calm) and riptides (powerful underwater currents that can easily pull you out. Be careful and respect the power of the ocean. Never turn your back to the ocean That selfie on the rocks isn't worth it."
Rev.Travis Johnson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Asilomar Dunes Natural Preserve is located in Pacific Grove, California. It's accessible via Highway 1. If you're coming from the north, you might drive along the scenic 17-Mile Drive, which has an entrance near Pacific Grove.
Parking is available but can be very limited, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early in the morning or on a weekday is highly recommended to find a spot.
Public transportation options to Pacific Grove exist, but direct access to the preserve might require a short walk or a local bus connection. It's best to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
While Asilomar Dunes is adjacent to the 17-Mile Drive and offers similar coastal beauty, it is a separate public preserve. You can access it directly without paying the 17-Mile Drive toll.
Multiple access points lead to the boardwalk trails. Look for designated parking areas along the coast, and you'll find trailheads nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Asilomar Dunes Natural Preserve is a public space and does not require an entrance fee. Enjoy the natural beauty for free!
As a natural preserve, Asilomar Dunes is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific park advisories or temporary closures.
While official guided tours might not be consistently available, local nature enthusiasts and docents sometimes offer informal walks. Keep an eye out for local event listings.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Asilomar Dunes, provided they are kept on a leash. It's a popular spot for dog walkers.
Yes, the 17-Mile Drive has a toll fee, typically around $12.25 per vehicle, which includes a map of the stops.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy leisurely walks on the boardwalk trails, explore tide pools, spot wildlife like sea otters and birds, and simply relax on the beautiful sandy beaches.
Yes, the boardwalk trails are generally easy and well-maintained, making them suitable for most visitors, including families with small children.
Dress in layers! The coastal breeze can be cool, so a windbreaker or jacket is recommended, even on warm days. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the main parking areas and along the preserve.
Sneaker waves are sudden, unexpectedly large waves that can appear even when the ocean seems calm. Riptides are powerful underwater currents that can pull swimmers away from shore. Both are dangerous, so stay aware and cautious near the water.
📸 📸 Photography
The boardwalk trails offer fantastic vantage points for capturing the dunes, ocean, and native flora. The tide pools and rocky coves are also very photogenic, especially during low tide.
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, provides beautiful soft light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant colors of the tide pools.
Drone usage is often restricted in natural preserves and coastal areas to protect wildlife and maintain a peaceful environment. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
You might have opportunities to photograph sea otters, various seabirds, and marine life in the tide pools. Patience is key!
Yes, you can photograph the ongoing efforts to restore native plant life and sand dunes, showcasing nature's recovery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. Dress everyone in layers to stay comfortable, and be mindful of the ocean's power with very young children. The natural beauty and educational opportunities make it a memorable outing for the whole family.
🐶 Dog Owners
Be sure to bring water for your dog and clean up after them. The cool ocean breeze is usually a hit with canine visitors, making it a pleasant experience for both of you.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Enjoy the stunning ocean views, the sound of the waves, and the fresh coastal air. It's an ideal place to unwind, read a book on the sand, or simply soak in the natural splendor. The limited parking can actually be a benefit for solo visitors, as it often deters larger crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Coastal Conservation Efforts
These efforts are crucial for protecting the coastline from erosion and providing a vital habitat for local wildlife. The preserve serves as an educational space, reminding us of nature's power to heal when given the chance and proper care. Take a moment to appreciate the resilience of this coastal environment.
When exploring, you might see signs explaining the different native plants and the importance of their role in the ecosystem. It's a great opportunity to learn about local flora and the challenges of coastal conservation.
Tide Pool Exploration
When visiting the tide pools, remember to tread lightly and observe without disturbing the delicate inhabitants. Avoid touching or removing anything from the pools. It's also important to be aware of the tide schedule; the lowest tides offer the most extensive access.
Be cautious of slippery rocks and sneaker waves, even when the tide is out. Always keep an eye on the ocean and be prepared to move to higher ground if necessary. The beauty of the tide pools is best enjoyed with respect for the ocean's power.
Wildlife Watching Opportunities
Birdwatchers will also find plenty to admire, with a variety of seabirds frequenting the coastline. Look for gulls, pelicans, and other shorebirds foraging along the beach and in the shallow waters. The preserve's restored habitat supports a healthy population of these avian species.
Remember to maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife. Avoid feeding animals, as this can disrupt their natural behaviors and diets. Enjoy the thrill of spotting these creatures in their natural environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit