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    Abbotts Lagoon

    4.5 (22 reviews)

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    Gorgeous, quiet, easy walk to coastline. Lots of wildlife, birds, beautiful lush landscape. Greeted at the end by empty beautiful pristine beach. Lots of dunes nearby for kids. Nice spot for a picnic and hang out for the afternoon. Great for families with young kids.! Totally worth the visit. A favorite of mine.

    Emma W.

    It was a rainy day in the Bay Area in March when we were all told to self isolate. I had been feeling cooped up in our small 1 bedroom apartment so was seeking some nature and ocean therapy. My botanist husband suggested Abbotts Lagoon since he'd heard of some great rare plants in the area. The trail is super easy and flat from the parking lot to get to the lagoon (and eventually the ocean). You'll start off on a dirt, cross a manmade walkway, and then find yourself hiking on the sand dunes before reaching the Pacific. During this time of year, the hills are a beautiful lush green color and beautiful vibrant flowers have begun to flourish. We saw many birds and event a rabbit on the trail. Do note that this area is super windy so even if temperatures are high, I really recommend bringing layers and something to cover your ears with.

    Carissa K.

    California Trip Part 2 #10 After I finished up at McClures Beach, I still wanted to hike something more substantial so I looked at my map and decided to check out Abbotts Lagoon (AL) southwest of Tomales Point. It was a cool, misty day, which kept the tourists away. When I arrived, there was a nice almost empty parking lot and restrooms. The 1.5-mile walk to the beach was diverse with coastal shrub and gorgeous scenic landscapes. At one point, you walk across a bridge over a stream between two lagoons (one is fresh water) and spread out before you is sand dunes. These sand dunes are home to the endangered snowy plover. And sometimes you can find peregrine falcons at AL. Wildlife thrives at AL including other birds, wildflowers and even a Brush rabbit (see my photos). The peaceful hike was exactly what I was looking for and finished up my time at Point Reyes.

    View from the Dunes
    Terry T.

    This is an easy flat hike/walk that is just over 2 miles round-trip. The narrow dirt trail passes a fresh water pond and a brackish lagoon on its way to the ocean. It is possible to see a lot of wildlife year around, and in the spring there is a profusion of wildflowers The Coast Miwok lived in the area around these lagoons before the arrival of European settlers in the 19th century. Starting in the 1870s the area was used for dairy and cattle ranching. There are still active historic dairy farms in the area. In the 1940s the area was used by the Navy for dive bombing practice. To reach this trail take Pierce Valley Road and watch for the sign to turn into the parking lot or for your GPS it is located at 38° 7′ 3″ N, 122° 57′ 12″ W

    Wooden pathways through the lagoon grass
    Laura B.

    Gorgeous vistas, *killer* wind! Honestly - some of the most intense wind I've ever walked through in my life, and far and away the worst I've ever experienced on a beach. That said, it's got to calm down sometime, and when it does I'm sure this hike is a much more pleasant one. Dress warm, regardless, and wear shoes you don't mind getting sand in. You'll start at the trailhead, then go through some plains/marsh grass, up a slight dune path, and then pop out at the beach. There are terns, quails, and coots (little black water birds that scoot against the wind in the lagoon) - great bird watching, and bird bone-finding, if you look in the sun-scorched and wind-torn dunes for them, lol! Round-trip took us about 1.5 hours. We had a fantastic time on this hike, but I wouldn't recommend going out of your way for it. I'd love to come back in the spring or summer and see if things have calmed down. If you're in the area, though, check it out!

    Hills and dunes
    Jeremy R.

    This was a beautiful hike across coastal scrub and marshland to gorgeous lagoons and dunes to a pristine beach. So many distinct ecosystems in on short level hike. Point Reyes is an amazing gem. We even saw a small group of Tule elk just up the road.

    When you first hit the lagoon
    Ashley J.

    Without a doubt, on a clear day, the most beautiful place on this here Earth. Take Sir Francis Drake Blvd until you get to Olema. Turn right on Inverness. Turn left on Bear Valley. Then after 5 miles or so, right where the sign directs you either to Abbott's Lagoon or to the Lighthouse. There is a small parking lot with newly constructed bathrooms by the trail head. Sorry, puppy lovers, no dogs. The trail is about a mile, maybe 2 miles long. No real elevation change. Less of a hike, more of a walk. During the first part of your hike, pull out your binoculars. Birders must love this place, as there are all kinds or rare and gorgeous birds flocking about from one lagoon to the next. You'll cross a couple small bridges that take you over creek beds and see sand dunes. How rare and how stunning. You almost feel like you're in a desert, the way the smooth sand has created these beautiful dunes like a mini valley of mountains. You might feel tempted to kick your shoes off and stop here, playing in the perfectly smooth sand, drawing hearts and names with plus signs enclosed in other hearts. You can succumb to this urge, or, you can keep going. Keep going, past the hundreds of birds by the water to your left, through a small trail that's almost impossible to find on the way back, and you will hit the ocean, where the sea meets the land and relentlessly splashes reminders of natural beauty against the shore. My last time I came out here (yesterday), there was a small group huddled in the sand on the way to the beach. The two men had guitars and were singing a soft, folksy melody. The two women were chatting laughing, journlaling, joining in on various versus of song. The beach is unending. Literally, as far as your eye can see from left to right, the ocean's waves splash a shimmering mist onto the shore. There are small groups of families out there, kids running around building sand castles and chasing the dog. There are groups of friends, huddled in circles, some cuddled with their significant others, others laughing and reminiscing. There are joggers, padding down the shoreline with short shorts and headphones on. I laid in the soft, golden sand and fell asleep. I'm not sure for how long. An hour, maybe two. And let the sun darken my skin. I felt completely safe, and gloriously alive. My advice: check the weather before you head to Point Reyes, anytime you head out to Point Reyes. More importantly, check the cloud cover. Though still beautiful on cloudy, foggy days, it is cold, freezing almost, and wet. The most beautiful days, the closest to perfection you will find in California and maybe even the world, will be on a day with little cloud cover, the sun high in the air, a lunch packed, the water bottled filled, and pillow for the glorious nap until the warm sun at the edge of the Earth.

    Grace H.

    Haven't enjoyed a nice hike in the Bay Area like this one in a long time. This was a trail with emerald green scenery that cuts through a wasteland-like lagoon, but leads you towards the Pacific Ocean. I've never seen such a clear beach without kelp, rocks, or any other debris. It was just soft and foamy waves that melted on to the sand. The sound of the waves were definitely mesmerizing. I'm also grateful that they have a pretty decent parking lot lol.

    The lagoon

    I'm somewhat reluctant to ever write reviews about Point Reyes National Seashore because it's my favorite place on earth and selfishly I want to keep it all to myself. I suppose it's time to let a few people in on the secret (if you don't know already) because I know Yelpers will appreciate it's beauty. If you don't, well then unfriend me right now. Abbotts Lagoon is an easy hike out to the pacific ocean and I'd reccomend it to beginners and anyone that loves being near water. I've been doing this hike since I was 3 years of age and it never gets old. Granted those early days were in my parent's backpack but, it's still the same to me. If you're an avid "birder" I'd also say this place is for you. The sheer amount of wildlife you encounter on your way out to the ocean is insane. My pictures don't do the beauty justice, so go check this place out for yourself. Just remember to respect the area and pick up after yourself or I'll find you...

    Info
    Angela W.

    This trail is so remote that it's out in the middle of nowhere except a couple of cows. The trail is a couple of miles of mostly flat land. If not close to the ocean, it would have been very hot. Otherwise, I find this easy hike pleasant.

    The Dunes

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    Ask the Community - Abbotts Lagoon

    Review Highlights - Abbotts Lagoon

    My advice: check the weather before you head to Point Reyes, anytime you head out to Point Reyes.

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    Point Reyes National Seashore - Tomales Point Trail - Tule Elk Preserve, Point Reyes National Seashore

    Point Reyes National Seashore

    4.7(404 reviews)
    9.6 mi

    How fortunate we are to have Point Reyes National Seashore. The headquarters is fantastic- maps,…read morerecommendations, nice restrooms & plenty of free parking. Today we chose the Bear Valley hike trail. The path is wide and mostly flat and even includes a bathroom midway. As you walk you are able to hear the beautiful sounds of the babbling brook along the route. Being late Spring we were able to spot a good amount of wildflowers- buttercups, poppies, bleeding heart, foxglove and more. We encountered several equestrian's throughout our hike.

    Sea How You Are A…read more71,000-acre park that was founded in 1962 and whose eastern boundary consists of a little thing called the San Andreas Fault. It's also home to over 900 plant species (50 of which are endangered), over 40 species of mammals, and over 400 different birds. Point Reyes is unlike any other park we've ever been to in that it's such a unique area that includes a small town, farmlands, estuaries, beaches, headlands, and so much more. If this is your first time or you're planning your first time, I'd try to allow for at least two full days to really get a feel for this place, and the best part is it's all 100% free to visit! Here's a quick guide to the best of the best things to do here (Pro Tip: There are multiple other Yelp pages with lots of more specific reviews for each of these locations). * The PR lighthouse is a must-see, and with the 308 stairs you'll need to get there, you'll definitely get your steps in! * There are multiple Visitors Centers, but if you only want to visit one, I'd recommend going to the one at Drake's Beach where you might get a glimpse of elephant seals during their breeding period (Dec - March). * Tomales Point Trail at the Tule Elk Preserve is my mostest favoritetest trail on Earth. It's relatively flat with very little uphill, but it is over nine miles if you want to get to the point and get back. And, yes, you'll want to get to the point. Otherwise, what's the point? ;) Just be sure to bring water and some snacks to cover you for those 9+ miles. This will also be your best chance to come face-to-face with the infamous Tule Elk. * Drake's Estero if you want to do some kayaking (check website for rules and dates). * McClures Beach if you want to hang and picnic. Great for tidepooling but not so much for swimming. Seriously. Don't do it. * Chimney Rock Trail is a relatively low effort for high reward spot for some spectacular views. There's plenty of other places to check out, but this should help get you started. Enjoy!

    Photos
    Point Reyes National Seashore - Tomales Point Trail - Tule Elk Preserve, Point Reyes National Seashore

    Tomales Point Trail - Tule Elk Preserve, Point Reyes National Seashore

    Point Reyes National Seashore - Tomales Point Trail - Tule Elk Preserve, Point Reyes National Seashore

    Tomales Point Trail - Tule Elk Preserve, Point Reyes National Seashore

    Point Reyes National Seashore - Tomales Point Trail - Tule Elk Preserve, Point Reyes National Seashore

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    Tomales Point Trail - Tule Elk Preserve, Point Reyes National Seashore

    Kelham Beach

    Kelham Beach

    5.0(5 reviews)
    9.6 mi

    The perfect definition of a secluded beach. It's tranquil, it's peaceful, and best of all; it's…read morepretty much void of the general populations that frequent the park. This is because you'll have to hike at least 5 miles one way just to reach this beautiful beach. One of the most rewarding elements of making it here is being able to see the hidden waterfall right as you reach the bottom of the steps leading down the beach. There are probably a few different connector trails that you can take to get here. The quickest and less aggressive way would be to take the Bear Valley Trail to the Coastal Trail. This route is mostly flat and measures about 5 miles one way. It's also the popular trail within the park. If you're looking for more of an adventure and killer workout, take the Mount Wittenberg Trail to the Sky Trail which will also lead you to the Coastal Trail and down to the beach. Not only is this trail filled with tons of great inclines and ridges, but it's also insanely gorgeous! You'll be walking amongst the most beautiful trees and have stunning views of the coastline on your way there. This is the trail that I took to get there. It's about 7 miles one way, but you can also take the Bear Valley Trail back to make it a 12 mile loop instead of 14. Once you make it there, you'll be rewarded with calming waves and beautiful white water right beneath your feet. The sand is soft and there's plenty of flat driftwood to sit on. Use it to relax and have lunch while you take in the sights and sounds of Kelham. I think I saw about 2, maybe 3 people while I was there. I stayed at the beach for a little over an hour or so. Basically had it to myself for the majority of the time. If you're looking for a secluded beach to relax at during your trip to Point Reyes, this is the one. The trek may be long, but the sights and solidarity make it totally worth it.

    Kelham Beach was the destination for my boyfriend and I's Point Reyes hike. It is about 5 miles…read moreone way from the Bear Valley Visitor Center to get to this beach. Once you see the sign for the Kelham Beach Trail, go down the several steep steps to the beach. Once you reach the beach, you will be treated to a nice sandy beach with not too many people. When we were there, there might have been only a few other groups there. It feels very remote and secluded. It is defiantly a nice place for a romantic picnic. The beach also a small waterfall which was a nice surprise. If you have never been to Point Reyes before, hiking to Kelham Beach is a good starting point. The terrain wasn't too challenging and the beach was easy to find. I would defiantly recommend checking it out if you are able to.

    Photos
    Kelham Beach - Pretty rocks!

    Pretty rocks!

    Kelham Beach - Where fresh water meets the sea

    Where fresh water meets the sea

    Kelham Beach - A ship in the distance

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    A ship in the distance

    Abbotts Lagoon - beaches - Updated May 2026

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