The Bear Valley Visitor Center at Point Reyes National Seashore is open daily from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, except for Christmas Day.
There is no entrance fee to visit Point Reyes National Seashore.
From San Francisco, drive north on U.S. Highway 101, then exit at Sir Francis Drake Blvd, winding through charming Marin towns to reach the rugged coastline.
At Point Reyes National Seashore, parking is free. The Bear Valley Bus/RV/Trailer Parking Lot accommodates buses, RVs, and trailers for day use only. The Bear Valley Trailhead Parking Lot has space for about 210 vehicles, including cars and motorcycles. No overnight parking is allowed.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Point Reyes National Seashore, a coastal paradise on the outskirts of San Francisco, is a haven of unspoiled beauty and diverse wildlife. This expansive park, spanning over 70,000 acres, protects miles of stunning coastline, dense forests, and a rich array of flora and fauna. The landscape is punctuated by the iconic Point Reyes Lighthouse, a historic beacon built in 1870 that stands as a testament to the region’s maritime history. Visitors can descend the 313 steps to the lighthouse, surrounded by leaning cypress trees and the constant mist of the Pacific Ocean.
The park is a hiker’s dream, with trails like the Tomales Point Trail and Chimney Rock Trail offering breathtaking coastal scenery and abundant wildflowers. These trails are also prime spots for wildlife spotting, including Tule Elk, deer, quail, and even the occasional bobcat or whale. The Tule Elk Preserve, located at Tomales Point, is a must-visit for its majestic elk herds.
Seasonal changes bring unique experiences; from January to April, the park is an ideal location for viewing the annual gray whale migration. In the fall and spring, the area around the lighthouse transforms into a whale-watching haven. The Cypress Tree Tunnel, planted in the 1930s, is another scenic highlight, leading to a historic radio station and offering panoramic views.
While exploring, visitors can also enjoy the local artisan towns nearby, such as Point Reyes Station, which offers a blend of gourmet eateries, specialty shops, and local artisans. For those seeking a more immersive experience, guided hikes and wildlife tours are available through local outfitters. As the sun sets over the Pacific, the park’s serene beauty and rich biodiversity make Point Reyes National Seashore an unforgettable destination for any traveler.
- Area (mi²)
- 100
- Annual visitors
- 2 300 000
- Established year
- 1962
Top 3 Facts about Point Reyes National Seashore
Inverness Ridge is rising at a rate of 0.4–1.0 mm per year, a result of tectonic activity in the region. This gradual uplift is much slower than the side-by-side movement along the nearby faults.
This coastal haven is a biodiversity hotspot, home to nearly 40 species of land mammals and a dozen marine mammals, including tule elk, mule deer, and northern elephant seals. It hosts one of the largest populations of tule elk and is a critical breeding ground for elephant seals. The area is a migratory route for California gray whales and boasts an astounding 490 bird species, including common murres, brown pelicans, and cormorants. The waters are teeming with fish like surfperch and rockfish, and invertebrates such as Dungeness crab and sea whips. The rich flora includes a diverse array of macrofungi like mushrooms and polypores, adding to the unique character of this natural wonder.
Along the rugged coastline, the Pacific Ocean crashes against towering sea cliffs, creating a dramatic interplay of turquoise and azure waters. The landscape is defined by the San Andreas Fault, which has sculpted a valley through which two major streams flow, supporting a diverse array of life. Here, rolling grasslands and forested ridges meet the ocean’s edge, offering a unique blend of Mediterranean ecosystems and coastal beauty.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Arts & Crafts
- Water-based Adventures.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit in spring or fall for mild weather. Plan multiple days to explore trails and historical sites. Start at the visitor center, park in designated areas, and anticipate rocky terrain. Rest often, and pack meals as options are limited. Catch the Tomales Farmer’s Market on Saturdays.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for changing coastal weather, sturdy footwear, and a waterproof jacket. Bring a backpack with essentials like a map, first aid kit, and hydration system. For longer stays, include camping gear and bear-resistant containers. Check the season for specific needs.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, avoid feeding or touching, and respect seasonal closures to protect fragile ecosystems and native species. Check weather and conditions before heading out.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and fast-moving water. Check weather and fire alerts. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 415-464-5100. Exercise caution around wildlife and hot springs. Follow all park signs and advisories.
Seasons
Spring brings mild temperatures (50s-60s°F) and vibrant wildflowers. Enjoy the Point Reyes Birding & Nature Festival in April, featuring bird migrations and diverse habitats. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with clear skies and gentle rains. Perfect time to explore coastal dunes and spot butterflies.
Summer brings mild temperatures, 69°F highs and 54°F lows, with frequent coastal fogs. Witness the annual Point Reyes Bird Observatory’s Summer Bird Count in July. Ideal for hiking and whale watching, but be prepared for breezy conditions.
Autumn brings mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and crisp weather, ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting. Join the National Public Lands Day volunteer effort in late September, or enjoy the Party on the Pacific Plate fundraiser, featuring hikes, walks, and a dinner reception. A perfect season to explore.
Winter brings mild temperatures, 57°F highs and 41°F lows, and occasional rainfall, making December and January ideal for serene, breezy hikes and untouched landscapes, perfect for those seeking a peaceful, natural escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Point Reyes National Seashore has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Historic 1870 lighthouse offers stunning ocean views and excellent whale watching, particularly gray whales migrating December–April.
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Pets are restricted from most beaches but allowed at Kehoe Beach and several trails, always on a leash.
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Tule elk, elephant seals, whales, harbor seals, coyotes, and numerous bird species.
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Yes, fishing for salmon, halibut, rockfish, and surf perch is popular; California fishing licenses required.
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Inverness, Point Reyes Station, and Olema offer lodging, dining, grocery stores, and outdoor equipment rentals.