You Should Visit This Coastal California Destination At Least Once In Your Life

California's a big state, rich in natural beauty that honestly feels endless. From jaw-dropping desert mountains to miles of coastline dotted with treasures like Glass Beach, one of the most unique beaches in America, you could spend your whole life exploring this state. But just 30 miles north of San Francisco, believed by travelers to be America's coziest city, sits 71,000 acres of coastal paradise unlike anything you've ever seen. Point Reyes National Seashore, located in Marin County, is a bucket-list destination that everyone needs to experience once, especially if you're seeking a laid-back coastal getaway.

The peninsula's history runs 5,000 years deep, starting with the Coast Miwok tribe, who built thriving communities along these shores. In 1579, Francis Drake became the first European to arrive, claiming the territory for Queen Elizabeth. Explorer Sebastian Vizcaíno arrived in 1603, and named the impressive cliffs "Punta de los Reyes," meaning Point of the Kings. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed Point Reyes into protection as a national seashore, and four years later, it was dedicated by Lady Bird Johnson, who described it as "a bright star in the galaxy of conservation achievements of the 1960s." It was officially designated as a national seashore in 1972, with more than 25,000 acres set aside as wilderness.

The closest major airport to Point Reyes National Seashore is San Francisco International Airport. From San Francisco, it's just 55 miles away — less than two hours via US-101 and Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. Another option is Sacramento International Airport, about a two-and-a-half-hour drive via I-80 West.

Point Reyes National Seashore has over 80 miles of shoreline split into several beaches. Limantour Beach is a favorite among locals and visitors for sunbathing and swimming, thanks to its calm waters. Drakes Beach is another popular stop, especially for spotting marine wildlife like elephant seals, which hang out here in massive numbers. The beach occasionally closes during breeding season for safety, but seals can still be viewed with binoculars from the parking lot. While the park is dotted with beaches, water activities are generally dangerous due to strong rip currents, hypothermia, and unpredictable sneaker waves.

With more than 1,500 species of plants and animals calling the park home, hiking is the best way to experience what Point Reyes has to offer. The 13.8-mile Alamere Falls hike via the Coast Trail from the Palomarin Trailhead holds a 4.8-star rating with over 5,000 reviews. Along the way, hikers pass scenic ocean views and quiet lakes before the trail opens up to reveal the 40-foot Alamere Falls cascading directly onto the beach. One AllTrails reviewer called it a perfect overnight hike. It's important to avoid the shortcut trails to Alamere Falls that circulate online, as they're unmaintained and hazardous, with eroding cliffs, poison oak, ticks, and no cell service.

The easy 1.8-mile Chimney Rock Trail is ideal for wildlife spotting, while the 9.6-mile Tomales Point Trail has nearly 10,000 AllTrails reviews and is known for transforming into something striking in every season. In addition to all the natural attractions, visitors shouldn't miss the Cypress Tree Tunnel, formed by Monterey cypress trees planted around 1930. There are no signs pointing to it, but turning near the North District Operations Center leads to one of the most photogenic spots in the park.

When it's time to get your history on, the best class awaits at Point Reyes National Seashore. With three visitor centers, Bear Valley Visitor Center serves as the park's main hub, while Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center is filled with maritime exhibits focusing on 1500s exploration and marine environments. The Point Reyes Lighthouse Visitor Center is a must-visit. As you walk toward this monumental building, constructed in 1870 and registered as a National Historic Place in 1991, you'll feel the power it held, serving mariners against navigational hazards for more than 105 years.

You'll also find exhibits, and if you're up for a trek, the 313 steps take you down to the lighthouse itself. The observation deck opens until 11:45PM, where you can watch for whales and birds gliding over the Pacific. Each visitor center has varying hours and closures, so check the park website for information. It's worth noting that the lighthouse stairs close when wind speeds reach 40 mph, so look out for the brown sign at the trailhead indicating closure.

If you're planning to stay overnight, Point Reyes offers backcountry camping, which can be reserved online. While entrance to the park is free, campsite prices range from $30 per night for up to six people to $90 for groups up to 25. Campers can also spend the night at Tomales Bay campground, accessible only by boat. Limantour Lodge offers dormitory-style lodging that can accommodate up to 50 people per night. No trip is complete without tasty meals to fuel your adventures. Cafe Reyes serves up delicious classics, including Italian pizzas and fresh seafood, for lunch and dinner in a casual atmosphere. For a quick bite, Side Street Kitchen has sandwiches and soft drinks that hit the spot.