This state beach is a pleasant spot to picnic, whale-watch and hike. Other highlights include shore birds, including the California Least Tern and Snowy Plover are regular inhabitants of the area and a joy to watch.
From Highway 101 exit west on Main Street (Highway 166), drive nine miles to the Highway 1 and West Main Street Junction and continue west five miles to pass through the entrance gate.
Horses are always prohibited on this trail and dogs are allowed on a leash from September 1 through March 14. The area is open from 6:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. during the summer and from 6:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. after the time change.
Two miles south of the beach parking lot is Mussel Rock, a jagged promontory with wild surf and 500 foot dunes, the highest of California coast.