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    Agate Beach Park

    4.0 (19 reviews)

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    Sunset!
    Adam A E.

    Take the fam! Bring rain boots, warm clothes, and some patience. We went during a full moon low tide at sunset, and our four children immediately drop in to looking into the tide pools and crevices. Stay for sunset, it is worth they wait. You get to watch the sunset shimmer behind the distant fog in the pacific. Well worth it.

    This is me posing under the tail fin of the stranded whale.The poor thing.The entire whale fluctuated and moved, with each incoming wave.
    Tom B.

    BOLINAS is a village located near three other villages, namely, Stinson Beach, Olema, and Point Reyes Station. Each of these places is a tourist destination, though Bolinas is somewhat less of a tourist destination, because the town itself and the nearby beaches are somewhat scruffy. Nearby Olema (just a cluster of buildings, not even a village) and Point Reyes Station have the best restaurants in the area. Point Reyes National Seashore is a huge park with beaches and undulating cliffs in the Drake's Bay area that are world class, in terms of photogenicity. Now, back to Bolinas. Bolinas has a theater, where one can see performances by the ever-so-excellent and ever-so-beloved San Francisco Mime Troupe (a definite plus). The theater is at Mesa Park, 100 Mesa Rd., behind the Bolinas Firehouse. The beach at Bolinas has many dogs, and local artwork features paintings of dogs (another plus). At the eastern side of Bolinas Lagoon is Audubon Canyon Ranch, where tourists can view a large egret colony. I find lagoons and marshes to be magical things, especially when egrets can be found. Bolinas Lagoon is magical in this way. My motivation in posting this review, was the stranded whale at Agate Beach Park, which attracted modest numbers of visitors during the last week of May 2017. Agate Beach Park is like the beach area at Palomarin Trailhead, in that the beach is narrow, and likely disappears at high tide. On the plus side, at Agate Beach Park and at the beach near Palomarin Trailhead, the views of the ocean are unobstructed. For the S.F. resident who wants to get away from the Coney Island-type crowds found at Stinson Beach, and who has already seen the awesome and remote beaches in the Drake's Bay area, Agate Beach Park is a good alternative. See my attached photo of the stranded whale, at Agate Beach Park. ISSUE OF SMOOTHENED OVOID STONES. At the far northern terminus of Mesa Road is a parking area, with a trail leading northwards, and a spur trail leading to the beach, where one can find countless thousands of rounded stones, smoothened by being jostled billions of times by the surf. The beaches at Drakes Bay also have many beautiful smoothened stones, and on Feb. 17, 2013, I took an ovoid stone about 5 inches long, and with enamel paint, painted a swirling continuous ribbon, and over the ribbon in script, I wrote a diary about the day's events. But Agate Beach does not have huge collections of smoothened stones, and instead has mostly jagged stones released from the crumbling cliff that borders the beach. Too bad.

    At the rocky far end of the beach.
    Lindsay B.

    Wow....not getting the low reviews at all! Is this a fun beach for swimming and taking your family? No. Probably not. But it's certainly not pretending to be, either! Come here for: - The views. Gorgeous cliffs looking out over the rocky coastline. - Fun rocks and sea life. No, there's no agate, but there are plenty of other cool rocks (lots of interesting adder stones!), plus snails, starfish, crabs, and the like. - Tranquility! We were here for a few hours on a weekend and saw one person. As you venture toward the rockier side of the beach, you'll run into some cliffs that are slowly collapsing. Definitely a positive and a negative - it's super cool to watch the little pebbles constantly rolling down the cliffs, but I'm sure it's also potentially dangerous. We had some fun pretending we could crush the soft rocks with our superhuman strength, and then moved away from the falling rocks as quickly as possible.

    Agate Beach at it's lowest tide
    Lora M.

    We woke up at 4 on a rainy and foggy morning to catch the low tide at 5:30 since it is an hour and a half drive from Castro Valley. The tide pooling sounded fun and I was very excited about it. Actually, I was more excited of the possibility of being able to eat a fresh and live sea urchin so I brought spiced vinegar and lemon wedges and a knife for it. If you want to go straight to the beach, don't go to the sign that says "Trail" on the left side unless you want to see the beautiful view from the cliffs and beach from above. The trail still leads you to the beach but just a little farther. If you are catching a low tide and do not want to waste time, go to the one that's on the right of the parking. You can always come back to do scenic sightseeing afterwards. I've done tide pooling back home and it was fun cuz you get to see a lot of sea creatures and fishes. Since this place has way too many kelps, it becomes more too slippery and scary to hop or walk between rocks and the area is mostly covered by it. You may need to lift them to see some star fish, fish and other sea creatures. We didn't do that so we saw nada but a starfish and a dead crab. If you come here for a scenic view of the beach and cliffs, this would be a good place. We didn't come here for that, so we were quite a bit disappointed.

    One day's agate hunting results! A good time to go is when it's low tide and search close to the water for translucent pebbles

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    Review Highlights - Agate Beach Park

    Fortunately we came early in the day when the tide was low and there was a bit of fine mist around.

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    Alamere Falls - Point Reyes National Seashore - Honeysuckle  on the trail of Alamere Falls

    Alamere Falls - Point Reyes National Seashore

    4.6(565 reviews)
    5.6 mi

    Wow--absolutely spectacular, magical, and truly epic!…read more Alamere Falls is one of the most breathtaking hidden gems along the California coast, tucked inside Point Reyes National Seashore. What makes it so special is that it's a rare "tidefall," where the waterfall flows directly into the ocean--something you can only see in a couple of places in California, including McWay Falls. Watching the water cascade over the rugged shale cliffs onto the beach below is simply unforgettable. The surrounding landscape feels wild and untouched, adding to the sense of adventure. Upstream, the smaller cascades create a beautiful lead-up to the main falls, making the entire hike feel like a journey through nature's artwork. This spot is not just a destination--it's an experience. From the scenic hike to the dramatic ocean views, every moment feels rewarding. If you're looking for something unique, peaceful, and awe-inspiring, Alamere Falls absolutely delivers.

    People who have never been to Oregon will tell you that this is one of only two tidefalls (a…read morewaterfall that flows into the ocean) on the entire West Coast. People who believe AllTrails will tell you that this is one of only two tidefalls in California. (If you use Alltrails, you aren't allowed to hike with me, by the way.) Neither of these statements are anywhere close to true. As a matter of fact, there are at least two tidefalls on this one beach, and there are many more in areas that are not easily accessible to the public. Tidefalls are common along the coasts of Oregon, Washington, and Canada. There are several tall tidefalls in Cape Perpetua alone. That being said, Alamere Falls might be the biggest, prettiest publicly accessible tidefall in Northern California. I recently hiked Alamere Falls for the first time in nearly ten years, and I couldn't believe how much had seemed to change. First of all, the road to the Palomarin trail was hell in a compact vehicle. Even going like two miles per hour, I got a little motion sickness from the thousands of deep potholes. The road is so bad that it almost seems beyond repair. At this point, it's probably only suitable for high clearance vehicles, although I did not notice any signs warning of such. Secondly, I'm pretty sure I was the only sober person on the trail. The vibes were so, so weird. Consider packing your (legal) weapon of choice. Thirdly, I was certainly the only person to take the 'legal' trail down, although I gained some new perspective on this. While the trail that I took is ostensibly the trail recommended by NPS, one does have to wonder why it is so overgrown. It feels like, "Obviously, no one ever really hikes this trail," because it's nowhere near clear or well-trodden. Certain areas of the trail were so overgrown that it was impossible to see my feet, and difficult to find my footing. These areas were chalk full of poison oak, stinging nettle, poison hemlock, and a wide variety of (harmless) snakes. By contrast, much of the "social" trail was four feet wide, flat, and clear. Which made me wonder-- which trail is really safer? The cliffs at the end of the social trail are constantly crumbling. The risk of falling, breaking a leg, or at least spraining an ankle, seems high. But by contrast, the risk of spraining an ankle on the recommended trail seems high, too. And the stinging nettle hurt a lot, but only for a few hours. My personal recommendation is to take the recommended trail, but wear solid boots, long pants, and tall, colorful socks. Tuck your pants into your socks, or wear gaiters. Use permethrin or your tick repellant of choice. While the official Palomarin Trail may be very long and difficult, it's also worth the trouble. The ocean views and wildlife were unbelievable. I actually saw a mother deer nursing two spotted fawns in the middle of the trail. On the beach, I found agates, fossils, shells, giant bull kelp, snowy plovers, and lots of by-the-wind-sailors jellyfish in multiple stages of life and decomposition. The waterfall itself is pretty-- but make sure to check the tide!! I never do, and I almost always get stranded. The first time I ever hiked this trail, I actually had to climb up a cliff in terror and wait 3 hours for the tide to recede. But that doesn't need to happen to you if you remember to check the tide before you come out, while you still have service.

    Photos
    Alamere Falls - Point Reyes National Seashore - Top of the falls

    Top of the falls

    Alamere Falls - Point Reyes National Seashore
    Alamere Falls - Point Reyes National Seashore - Eucalyptus Grove at beginning of the trail

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    Eucalyptus Grove at beginning of the trail

    Palomarin Beach - Farther south, probably about RCA beach

    Palomarin Beach

    4.3(3 reviews)
    1.5 mi

    Main trail is COMPLETELY overgrown. Heed the sign and don't take the main trail down. There is a…read moreshorter, steeper trail by the south parking lot but they both require the use of a rope ladder to get down the final 15 feet. Rather shaky on the way up. Just above the rope ladder there is another section of rope to help you ascend to where you can walk again. (Go right, not left.) The beach itself is very picturesque--lots of bluffs, a few small waterfalls, and a few sandy sections but mostly rocks. The tide pools I noticed were pretty small, probably not worth the journey especially if you have any gear with you (see above re: rope ladder). It is slow going walking along the rocks and seaweed, but it is a rather long beach. In my two hours there I saw NOBODY.

    Simply put, I just love this beach! It's an amazing reward to be graced with the shallow waves of…read morePalomarin Beach after embarking on a 4.5 mile hike and a short rock climb down the embankment. I've been to this beach a few times now so far, and its' beautiful views and calming waves never cease to amaze me. Palomarin Beach is located within Alamere Falls Park which is a subsidiary of Point Reyes National Seashore. This beach is only accessible through a few hiking trails within Alamere Falls Park. The shortest way to get to this beach is to take the Palomarin Beach Trail via the Palomarin/Coast Trail. This trail measures .6 miles one way, and will lead you directly down to the beach. If taking this trail, you'll have to scale down some steep rocks and cliffs. It's not impossible, but you'll need to have some upper body strength to climb up and down the rocks. If you've never been here before, I would suggest coming with someone just in case you need help getting up and down the steep cliffs. If you're not into rock climbing but don't mind the trek of a long hike, you can take the Palomarin (Coast) Trail all the way down to the beach. There's no rock climbing involved on this trail, however it's 6.5 miles one way. My favorite way to get down to this beach is via the Alamere Falls Trails. Not only does this trail take you down to the beach, but it also leads to the beautiful Alamere Falls! The hike to Alamere Falls is about 4.5 miles one way. You'll take the Palomarin Trail to Alamere Falls trail and it will lead you right down the beach. Like the Palomarin Beach Trail, this trail will involve some rock climbing down steep cliffs and rocks and you'll also have to hike through a short narrow path that contains poison oak and poison ivy. Totally doable as long as you're prepared for it. What's so great about this beach is that since it's located below the cliffs, it provides an amazing view of the California coastline, Every view will be picture worthy. The tides were low during my last visit, but they change depending on the season. You can put your feet in, but the waves can be pretty ferocious, so I wouldn't recommend swimming. The water is so white and clear and the sand is soft on your feet, so walking along the beach is perfect. There are a couple of flat rocks beneath the cliffs that are shaded. It's a nice place to sit and have lunch if you bring it with you. I will warn that the trail to the beach is a very popular one. So, if you want to beat the crowd, coming early is your best bet. Either way, this beach is totally worth a visit, especially if you're planning on hiking to Alamere Falls.

    Photos
    Palomarin Beach - The rocky Palomarin Beach

    The rocky Palomarin Beach

    Palomarin Beach - Arroyo Hondo cascade

    Arroyo Hondo cascade

    Palomarin Beach

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    Bolinas Lagoon - Wildflowers

    Bolinas Lagoon

    4.3(4 reviews)
    2.7 mi

    OK. So you are driving up Route One just past Stinson Beach, and there is this huge lagoon on the…read moreleft, hills to the right as the highway snakes along the limited shore. The road seems to be trying to keep its skirts out of the water. I love this place because there are no trails, few markers and absolutely no crowds. Unless you count sea lion herds as crowds which I do not. It is a great place to watch nature. Sea life to be exact, with shore birds, waders, ducks and geese, and gulls. But the main attraction for me is the sea lions. The lagoon is broad and shallow with many large sand bars out in the middle. That is where 20 to 200 sea lions will be loafing and snoozing during the day. Splendid I say. The tides move in and out rather quick, so there are interesting dynamics to watch as the birds fish and mammals play here fishy fishy. There are no set places to look. Just some places where you can park by the road, and then adventure across to see what there is to see. You will need binoculars, because the expanse is wide and far, and the sea lions and bird life are completely uninterested in coming close. No amenities, go before you get here. Good place to spend a few hours in the warm sun loafing with the wildlife.

    Its a peaceful lagoon on a beautiful drive from Stinson beach towards Point Reyes…read more I did not see sea lions, but was in a hurry to continue my drive onwards

    Photos
    Bolinas Lagoon - Looking east from Olema Bolinas Road

    Looking east from Olema Bolinas Road

    Bolinas Lagoon
    Bolinas Lagoon - Looking east from the far end of Seadrift

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    Looking east from the far end of Seadrift

    Cataract Falls Trail - 1.10.26

    Cataract Falls Trail

    4.7(257 reviews)
    4.7 mi

    I had forgotten just how gorgeous this hike is--the scenery is incredible the entire way. Be…read moreprepared for a steady climb through most of the route, with plenty of wooden stairs, gnarly roots, and rock steps, but the stunning views make every bit of effort worth it. There are many great spots to stop for photos, take a break, or enjoy a picnic--we did all three. Thanks to the recent rain, there was still plenty of water flowing, which made the trail even more beautiful. The picnic area at Laurel Dell is especially serene, with a babbling brook nearby. There's even an outhouse, which is always a welcome sight. I actually found climbing up much easier than descending as one has to really pay attention to their footing. We were happy seeing Alpine Lake again knowing we were close to end of hike.

    Went here with a friend and her dog and had such a great time. Such a beautiful, peaceful hike and…read moredefinitely one of my favorites on Mount Tam. The drive in was beautiful too, the views of Alpine Lake along the way made the whole trip feel extra special before we even got to the trail. Be prepared for a lot of stairs, so it can definitely get your legs working, but the waterfalls make it completely worth it. Hearing the water and being surrounded by all the greenery made the whole hike feel so calm and relaxing. The views throughout the hike are gorgeous, and it's such a nice escape if you're looking for something peaceful and scenic. Definitely recommend checking out Cataract Falls if you're up for a little workout with a really rewarding payoff. Definitely will be coming back :)

    Photos
    Cataract Falls Trail
    Cataract Falls Trail
    Cataract Falls Trail - So pretty and green

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    So pretty and green

    Palomarin Trailhead

    Palomarin Trailhead

    4.6(62 reviews)
    3.3 mi

    We decided to go up to Alamere Falls this Saturday morning. Parking lot was not that full yet at…read more8am, maybe about 8-10 cars. There are lots of parking at this trail but by afternoon, good luck!! I would definitely come here super early to beat the crowd like we did! The road going here is very zigzag roads and some may get sick. Also, the road is very narrow and lots of loose gravel and lots of potholes so drive with caution. The trails are very well maintained. Lots of people traffic though. We got there early so there was barely anyone there but by the time we started going back, I stopped counting after a hundred people! Very popular trail as everyone wanted to go to Alamere Beach Waterfalls! We didn't go to the campgrounds as it was too far. Just going to Alamere Falls and back was already over eight miles! Alamere trails is another different review! I really enjoyed this trail as it goes along the coast and see the ocean views! Just beware there is a lot of poison oak! I saw a lot along the trail! It's part shade so wear a hat. Some parts of the trails goes up and down and lots of loose rocks so you can sleep. I would rate this trail moderate to hard as it's a long trail! Good workout!! I totally enjoyed this trail but recommend to come really early if you come on the weekend!! [31st R]

    Can I go back to last Thursday when I hiked this trail?! I couldn't have asked for better weather,…read moresunny, light breeze, mid-70s, and best of all, pretty empty! I'm not sure how anyone can find this place because there are no marked signs or paved roads to get to the parking lot or base of the trail. As a passenger, I was oblivious to driving directions. I must say that all the twists and turns left me a bit car-sick and thankfully that quickly passed. There are about 4 restroom stalls in the parking lot that stunk badly. Now onto the positive aspects of Palomarin. Many reviewers have mentioned that this trail to the falls is about 8 miles round-trip. I think I finished in about 4.5 hours with stops here and there at a leisurely pace. I bet the sunset would have been beautiful, but I left around 6:30pm. What I love about this hike is that there's a little of everything in terms of views and things to see. I saw the ocean, a lake, a fox, waterfalls, nature, and fresh air. I wonder if the waterfalls are always flowing, even a few years ago during the drought... A great pit-stop before coming to Palomarin is to stop in Stinson Beach for lunch or dinner. I'm glad lunch was eaten before the hike. Next time I'll bring snacks. Luckily I had brought lots of water. Still having Palomarin withdraws... #53/2018

    Photos
    Palomarin Trailhead - Monkey flower

    Monkey flower

    Palomarin Trailhead
    Palomarin Trailhead

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    Agate Beach Park - beaches - Updated May 2026

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