Point Reyes National Seashore
A wild, windswept peninsula offering dramatic coastlines, unique waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Point Reyes National Seashore
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A wild, windswept peninsula offering dramatic coastlines, unique waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.
"Stunning views, seriously. Makes you feel like you're in a parallel world or something."
Warm Layers are a Must! 🧥
Point Reyes is known for its unpredictable weather. Always pack layers, even in summer.
Download Offline Maps 🗺️
Cell service is unreliable. Download Google Maps for offline navigation before you go.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Alamere Falls
Coastal Trail
Witness a rare waterfall cascading directly into the Pacific Ocean. A challenging but rewarding hike.
Point Reyes Lighthouse
Southern tip of the peninsula
Iconic lighthouse offering dramatic ocean views and a glimpse into maritime history. Be prepared for wind and fog!
Cypress Tree Tunnel
Sir Francis Drake Blvd
An enchanting, fairytale-like tunnel formed by towering cypress trees. Perfect for magical photos.
+1
Tomales Point Trail
Tomales Point
Hike through rolling hills with a high chance of spotting Tule elk and stunning coastal vistas.
Planning Your Visit
Dress in Layers, Always!
Car is King Here
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Warm Layers are a Must! 🧥
Point Reyes is known for its unpredictable weather. Always pack layers, even in summer.
Download Offline Maps 🗺️
Cell service is unreliable. Download Google Maps for offline navigation before you go.
Book Campsites Early ⛺
Popular campsites fill up fast, especially on weekends. Reserve well in advance.
Watch for Tule Elk 🦌
Tomales Point Trail is a prime spot for viewing these majestic animals in their natural habitat.
Tips
from all over the internet
Warm Layers are a Must! 🧥
Point Reyes is known for its unpredictable weather. Always pack layers, even in summer.
Download Offline Maps 🗺️
Cell service is unreliable. Download Google Maps for offline navigation before you go.
Book Campsites Early ⛺
Popular campsites fill up fast, especially on weekends. Reserve well in advance.
Watch for Tule Elk 🦌
Tomales Point Trail is a prime spot for viewing these majestic animals in their natural habitat.
Beware of Rip Tides 🌊
The beaches here are beautiful but dangerous. Never swim in the ocean due to strong rip currents.
Visit the Shipwreck 🚢
The historic Inverness shipwreck is a unique photo opportunity, but it's deteriorating.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Point Reyes for its stunning, wild beauty and unique landscapes, often describing it as feeling like a parallel world. The clean, uncrowded beaches accessible by trail and the dramatic coastal views are major highlights. However, many note the challenging and unpredictable weather, emphasizing the need for warm layers and preparedness for wind and fog.
"Stunning views, seriously.
I found point reyes really cool because at first it honestly looks like any part of CA but you look a little closer and see plants you normally wouldn't see. Makes you feel like you're in a parallel world or something.
What's even better is the trails that lead towards the coast. The beaches are so clean because they're only accessible by trail and there are barely any people on the beach."
Ayler Ehling
"As part of our road trip from England 🏴 we had to visit this stunningly beautiful national park and peninsula.
Main reason wad to visit the iconic movie locations from the 1980 film The Fog.
Inverness and its house's over the water. Point reyes lighthouse and many more stunningly areas. What a beautiful place to visit whilst in Marin County."
G
"Be prepared! I visited the Point Reyes Lighthouse, Elephant Seal Overlook, Drakes Beach, and Cypress Tree Tunnel. The southern tip is the windiest place on the West Coast, with wind speeds frequently over 20 mph. Much of the lighthouse area was covered in fog when I arrived, so it was difficult to see the coast. Fortunately, the Elephant Seal Overlook had elephant seals and clearer views. The Cypress Tree Tunnel and Drakes Beach were both nice spots to stroll and take in the seashore's scale. Will definitely explore more next time 🦭🌫️🌊🌳"
pompompurin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While it's challenging, you can take the Marin Airporter from SFO to Marin County, and then the Marin Transit bus to the Point Reyes Visitor Center. However, a rental car is highly recommended for exploring the park's spread-out attractions. +1
No, Uber and Lyft are generally not available or reliable in Point Reyes National Seashore due to its rural nature and lack of cell service. Renting a car is the most practical option. +1
Point Reyes is quite spread out. Having a car allows you to reach key spots like the lighthouse, Limantour Beach, and Chimney Rock. Download offline maps as cell service is spotty.
The drive to Point Reyes National Seashore from San Francisco typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and your specific destination within the park.
During peak season, there might be limited shuttle services to certain popular areas like the lighthouse, but it's best to check the official NPS website for current availability. Relying on your own vehicle is generally more flexible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Point Reyes National Seashore does not charge an entrance fee. However, some specific areas or activities might have associated costs, such as parking fees at certain beaches or permits for overnight stays.
The park itself is generally open year-round from sunrise to sunset. However, specific facilities like the Visitor Center and the Point Reyes Lighthouse have set operating hours, which can vary seasonally. Always check the official NPS website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, you can visit the Point Reyes Lighthouse. However, the stairs leading down to the lighthouse itself are often closed after 4 PM, so plan your visit accordingly. Be prepared for strong winds and fog. +1
Yes, a permit is required for overnight stays at any of the hike-in campsites in Point Reyes National Seashore. These permits can be reserved in advance and are essential for camping.
While beaches are generally accessible, it's crucial to be aware of dangerous rip currents and avoid swimming. Some beaches may have seasonal closures or restrictions for wildlife protection. Always check signage and park alerts.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss Alamere Falls for its unique ocean cascade, the historic Point Reyes Lighthouse, the enchanting Cypress Tree Tunnel, and the chance to see Tule elk on the Tomales Point Trail.
Point Reyes is a haven for wildlife. You can spot Tule elk, elephant seals (especially at the Elephant Seal Overlook), various bird species, and potentially whales during migration seasons.
Hiking difficulty varies. Trails like Tomales Point are moderate, while the hike to Alamere Falls is considered strenuous due to its length (13.7 miles round trip). Always check trail conditions and your fitness level. +1
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and dress in layers. Expect wind, fog, and potentially rain, so waterproof and windproof outer layers are recommended.
Absolutely! Point Reyes offers stunning landscapes, from dramatic coastlines and lighthouses to unique tree tunnels and wildlife. Golden hour at the Cypress Tree Tunnel is particularly magical.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Point Reyes Station offers several charming eateries. Bovine Bakery is great for breakfast pastries, and Cowgirl Creamery is famous for its grilled cheese. Saltwater Oyster Depot is also a popular choice.
There are no restaurants directly inside Point Reyes National Seashore. You'll need to venture into nearby towns like Point Reyes Station or Inverness for dining options.
The area is known for its fresh oysters and artisanal cheeses. Don't miss trying local seafood and visiting cheese shops like Cowgirl Creamery. +1
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a great idea! There are many scenic spots, including beaches and designated picnic areas, where you can enjoy your meal. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Yes, Toby's Coffee Bar in Point Reyes Station is a popular spot for coffee and a quick bite. Bovine Bakery also serves coffee alongside its delicious pastries.
📸 📸 Photography
The Cypress Tree Tunnel offers a magical, almost otherworldly feel. The Point Reyes Lighthouse provides dramatic coastal shots, and the Tomales Point Trail is excellent for wildlife and landscape photography.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, is ideal for capturing the magical light filtering through the Cypress Tree Tunnel.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes and the Cypress Tree Tunnel. A telephoto lens is useful for wildlife photography, especially for Tule elk and birds. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Utilize a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the sky and ocean and reduce glare. Look for interesting cloud formations and dramatic wave action. The wind can add a dynamic element to your shots.
While official tours might be limited, many local photography enthusiasts offer workshops or guided photo walks. It's also easy to explore independently and discover your own unique perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Elephant Seal Overlook is a guaranteed hit with kids, offering a chance to see large, fascinating animals up close. Consider shorter, easier hikes like the Palomarin Trailhead to explore tide pools or the short walk to the South Beach Overlook for stunning views without an arduous trek. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, water, and dress everyone in layers, as the weather can change rapidly. 🚶♀️ Hikers & Backpackers
For backpackers, campsites like Coast Camp and Wildcat Camp offer a more immersive experience. 📸 Photographers
The Point Reyes Lighthouse offers dramatic, windswept coastal shots, and the rugged coastline provides endless opportunities for landscape photography. to elephant seals at their overlook. Bring a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens for wildlife. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the coastal colors and a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Alamere Falls
Key Considerations for Alamere Falls:
* Hike Length: Be prepared for a long day of hiking (approximately 13.7 miles round trip).
* Tide Awareness: Check tide charts carefully; low tide is essential for reaching the falls.
* Trail Conditions: The trail can be unmarked in places and may involve navigating through vegetation.
* Safety: Avoid the unofficial 'shortcut' along the river, as it can be dangerous and lead to injury or poison oak.
* What to Bring: Pack plenty of water, snacks, sun protection, and wear sturdy hiking boots.
Navigating Point Reyes Weather and Wildlife
The park is also a sanctuary for a rich array of wildlife. Tule elk, the largest subspecies of elk in North America, are a common sight, particularly along the Tomales Point Trail.
The Elephant Seal Overlook provides an excellent opportunity to observe these massive marine mammals, especially during their breeding and molting seasons. Birdwatchers will also find Point Reyes a paradise, with numerous species migrating through or residing in the area year-round. Remember to maintain a safe distance from all wildlife and never feed them. The Iconic Cypress Tree Tunnel
+1 It feels like stepping into another world, reminiscent of European countryside lanes. For the best photographic results, aim to visit during the 'golden hour' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The soft, warm light filtering through the dense canopy creates a breathtaking effect.
While the tunnel itself is a highlight, the drive through Point Reyes offers many other scenic vistas, including rolling hills and coastal views. Be mindful that this spot can get crowded, especially on weekends, so an early morning or late afternoon visit might offer a more serene experience. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit