Here is our list of the best things to do in Point Reyes. My sister and I have visited Point Reyes three times, and each visit uncovers something new and exciting. This stunning destination on the California coast offers a diverse range of activities and natural beauty. From hiking scenic trails with breathtaking ocean views to exploring the historic Lighthouse, every visit presents fresh adventures.
The area’s rich biodiversity, charming small towns, and pristine beaches make it a perfect spot for both relaxation and exploration. Whether it’s spotting wildlife at the Tule Elk Reserve, kayaking in Tomales Bay, or simply enjoying a picnic with local produce, this place never fails to impress and inspire.
Point Reyes has stunning cliffs, sandy beaches, and lots of nature to explore. You can visit the famous lighthouse, hike through forests and meadows, and see animals in the estuaries. It’s a great place for outdoor adventures and has a rich history. It is a special spot that showcases the beauty of the California coast.
Best time to visit Point Reyes National Seashore
The best time to visit is during the spring or fall seasons. In the spring, you can witness the wildflowers in bloom and enjoy pleasant temperatures. Fall offers mild weather and the opportunity to witness the annual elk rutting season. The summer months can be crowded, and the coastal fog is more common during this time. Winter can be rainy and foggy, but it also offers a unique atmosphere and the chance to spot migrating gray whales. Ultimately, the best time to visit Point Reyes depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to engage in, but spring and fall generally provide a pleasant and less crowded experience.
How to get to Point Reyes from San Francisco
To reach Point Reyes from San Francisco, you can take a scenic drive by following these steps. Start by heading north on US-101 N from San Francisco. Take the exit onto CA-1 N towards Stinson Beach/Mill Valley. Stay on CA-1 N and continue for about 30 miles until you reach the town of Olema. In Olema, turn left onto Sir Francis Drake Blvd and continue for approximately 5 miles until you reach the entrance of Point Reyes National Seashore. The drive offers beautiful coastal views and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Where to eat in Point Reyes
Cowgirl Creamery (80 4th St, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956): A cheese lover’s paradise, Cowgirl Creamery offers a delightful selection of artisanal cheeses made on-site. Enjoy their cheese plates, grilled cheese sandwiches, and other lunch options while savoring the flavors of their expertly crafted cheeses.
Osteria Stellina (11285 CA-1, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956): This charming Italian restaurant features a farm-to-table menu with locally sourced ingredients. Indulge in wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and other Italian dishes that showcase the best of seasonal flavors.
Station House Café (11180 CA-1, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956): A beloved local establishment, Station House Café offers classic American dishes with a California twist. Whether you’re craving a hearty burger or a fresh salad, their menu has something for everyone. Relax on their outdoor patio and enjoy the friendly atmosphere.
Marin Sun Farms Butcher Shop & Cafe (10905 Shoreline Hwy, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956): Known for their grass-fed meats, Marin Sun Farms Butcher Shop & Cafe serves up mouthwatering sandwiches and burgers. Experience the flavors of thoughtfully sourced ingredients and support sustainable farming practices.
Side Street Kitchen (60 4th St, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956): Nestled in Point Reyes Station, Side Street Kitchen offers comforting and flavorful food. From their famous fried chicken sandwich to their fresh salads and homemade soups, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Enjoy their outdoor seating area for a relaxing lunch experience.
Interesting facts about Point Reyes
Point Reyes is located on the Point Reyes Peninsula in Marin County, California, and is part of the Point Reyes National Seashore, a protected area known for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystems.
The Peninsula is a unique geological feature that was formed by the movement of the Pacific Plate along the San Andreas Fault. It is one of the few places on the west coast of North America where the land is moving horizontally instead of vertically.
Point Reyes is home to more than 1,500 species of plants and animals. It is particularly known for its rich birdlife, with over 490 species of birds recorded in the area, including migratory shorebirds, raptors, and waterfowl.
The famous Lighthouse, located on the westernmost point of the peninsula, has been guiding ships since 1870. It stands on a dramatic cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean and offers stunning views of the coastline.
It is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, beachcombing, and kayaking. There are numerous trails that lead to scenic viewpoints, hidden beaches, and picturesque forests, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.
The area surrounding Point Reyes is also known for its dairy farms and artisanal cheese production. Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company, located near the town of Point Reyes Station, produces award-winning cheeses made from the milk of their own herd of cows.
Point Reyes has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. The land has been occupied by Native American tribes, including the Coast Miwok people, and later became a site of Spanish exploration and Mexican land grants.
20 best things to do in Point Reyes
Visit the Point Reyes Lighthouse
Explore this historic lighthouse perched on dramatic cliffs and learn about its fascinating maritime history.
Hike the Point Reyes National Seashore Trails
Embark on various scenic trails, such as the Tomales Point Trail, Chimney Rock Trail, and Alamere Falls Trail, to witness breathtaking coastal views and diverse wildlife.
Explore the Tule Elk Reserve
Discover the unique Tule Elk population and observe these majestic animals in their natural habitat.
Take a Beach Day
Point Reyes is known for its stunning coastline and beautiful beaches. Here are some of the notable beaches in Point Reyes:
Limantour Beach: Located on the western shore of Point Reyes, Limantour Beach is a wide sandy beach stretching for miles. It offers scenic views, dunes, and ample space for picnicking, beachcombing, and birdwatching. The beach is popular for its gentle waves, making it suitable for swimming and sunbathing.
Drakes Beach: Situated near the the Lighthouse, Drakes Beach is a picturesque spot with stunning ocean views. It features soft sand, tide pools, and interesting rock formations. Visitors can explore the nearby historic lifeboat station, which houses exhibits on maritime history.
North Beach: As one of the more secluded beaches in Point Reyes, North Beach offers a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. It requires a hike along the Coast Trail to reach, but the scenic beauty and sense of seclusion are worth it. Keep in mind that swimming at North Beach is not advised due to strong currents.
Heart’s Desire Beach: Located in Tomales Bay State Park, Heart’s Desire Beach offers a calmer beach experience. It features a gently sloping shoreline, warm waters, and picnic areas with barbecue facilities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the calm waters of the bay.
South Beach: Situated near the Point Reyes Headlands, South Beach is known for its rugged beauty and dramatic waves crashing against the rocky shoreline. It offers breathtaking views of the cliffs and is a popular spot for beachcombing and exploring tide pools.
Discover the Shipwreck
Photograph the famous Point Reyes Shipwreck, an iconic landmark on the Inverness coastline.
Kayak or Canoe on Tomales Bay
Rent a kayak or canoe and paddle along the scenic Tomales Bay, taking in the tranquil waters and surrounding nature.
Visit the Point Reyes National Seashore Visitor Center
Learn about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife through exhibits and ranger-led programs.
Wildlife Watching
Look out for the diverse wildlife in the area, including harbor seals, sea lions, elephant seals, whales, and various bird species.
Explore the Point Reyes Historic Lifeboat Station
Step back in time and discover the history of maritime rescue at this restored lifeboat station.
Visit Alamere Falls
Hike to Alamere Falls, a stunning waterfall that cascades directly onto the beach.
Enjoy Birdwatching at the Giacomini Wetlands
Observe a wide array of bird species at the Giacomini Wetlands, a vital habitat for migratory birds.
Go Horseback Riding
Experience the beauty of Point Reyes on horseback with guided trail rides available in the park.
Visit Cypress Tree Tunnel
It’s a magical pathway created by a row of tall cypress trees, forming a natural tunnel. Walking through feels like stepping into a dream world with sunlight peeking through the branches. It’s perfect for peaceful walks and capturing beautiful photos. Don’t miss this captivating spot that showcases the natural beauty of Point Reyes.
Explore the Point Reyes Bear Valley Visitor Center
Learn about the park’s natural and cultural history through exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs.
Visit the Point Reyes Historic Ranches
Take a journey into the past by exploring the preserved historic ranches in the park, such as the Pierce Point Ranch and the Kehoe Beach Area.
Go Fishing
Enjoy freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities in various locations within the park, including Drakes Estero and Lagunitas Creek.
Attend a Ranger Program
Participate in ranger-led programs, such as guided hikes, campfire talks, and stargazing events, to deepen your understanding and appreciation of Point Reyes.
Go Whale Watching
Join a whale-watching excursion from Point Reyes and witness the incredible sight of migrating gray whales (seasonal).
Camp Overnight
Stay overnight at one of the park’s campgrounds and experience the serenity of Point Reyes under the stars.
Photograph the Scenic Landscapes
Capture the beauty of Point Reyes with your camera as you encounter stunning vistas, rugged cliffs, and rolling hills throughout the park.
