Limantour Beach: A Peaceful Coastal Getaway in Northern California
Just 15 km from Point Reyes Station, Limantour Beach offers a serene escape with wide sandy shores and gentle waves. Ideal for families, couples, and nature enthusiasts, it is a hidden gem within Point Reyes National Seashore, where pristine dunes meet the Pacific Ocean.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall, when weather is mild, tides are calm, and wildlife is abundant.
Whether you are planning a quiet day of sunbathing, birdwatching, or exploring tide pools, Limantour Beach provides a versatile and relaxing environment for all visitors.
📍 Location
Limantour Beach is located along the scenic Pacific Coast within Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County, California. Stretching over several miles, the beach boasts wide sandy areas, rolling dunes, and breathtaking ocean vistas.
The area is also known for its rich ecosystem, including harbor seals, shorebirds, and seasonal tule elk sightings, making it a prime spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Please note that parts of the beach may be closed during the nesting season (March-July) to protect sensitive wildlife.
🚗 Getting There
From San Francisco: Take Highway 101 North and exit onto Sir Francis Drake Boulevard in Larkspur. Drive west through Samuel P. Taylor State Park toward Olema. At Olema, turn right onto Highway 1 North, then left onto Bear Valley Road. Continue straight onto Limantour Road for about 8 miles to the main parking lot. The last section of Limantour Road is a narrow, winding, and hilly road. Large RVs and trailers are not recommended.
From Mill Valley: Head north along Highway 1, passing Stinson Beach and Olema. Turn right onto Bear Valley Road and continue to Limantour Road, which leads directly to the parking area.
The lot has space for approximately 65 vehicles and fills quickly on sunny weekends and holidays, especially between 11 AM and 3 PM. Arriving early or later in the afternoon usually makes parking easier.
The beach is a short five-minute walk from the lot. Those with mobility challenges should note that the pathway is slightly uneven.
🏖️ What You’ll Find at Limantour Beach
🌊 Swimming & Relaxation
- Gentle waves, ideal for wading or casual swimming
- WARNING: There are no lifeguards on duty. Swimming is at your own risk. Be aware of cold water, strong currents, and sneaker waves.
- Spacious sandy areas perfect for sunbathing and picnics
🏖️ Facilities
- Restrooms (no showers) and picnic spots near the parking area
- Boardwalks providing easy access to the beach
- No drinking water is available. Please bring your own.
- Visitor center with maps, wildlife guides, and helpful info
🚣 Activities & Nature
- Kayaking in the calm estuary
- Beachcombing, birdwatching, and tide pool exploration
- Seasonal guided nature tours led by rangers
💰 Prices & Hours
- Beach access: FREE
- Parking: FREE
- Beach hours: 6:00 AM – Sunset
- Visitor center: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📅 Nearby Events & Experiences
- Spring Bird Festival: March–April, perfect for bird lovers
- Tide Pool Tours: Summer, explore marine life
- Beach Yoga Classes: Weekly in summer, suitable for all levels
🍴 Restaurants & Lodging
- Station House Café – Breakfast & lunch in Point Reyes Station
- Osteria Stellina – Authentic Italian cuisine nearby
- Point Reyes Seashore Lodge – Comfortable accommodations for an overnight stay
📸 Nearby Attractions
- Point Reyes Lighthouse – spectacular coastal views
- Estero Trail – easy hikes through wetlands and dunes
- Wildlife spotting – harbor seals, shorebirds, tule elk
- Chimney Rock – dramatic cliffs and panoramic scenery
🧭 Practical Tips
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and layered clothing for coastal winds
- Wear sturdy shoes suitable for trails and sand
- Pets are PROHIBITED on Limantour Beach to protect sensitive wildlife.
- Carry water (no water available on-site) and snacks; on-site facilities are limited
- Arrive early during weekends to secure parking and enjoy tranquility
🌟 Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County, California, USA |
| Access from Point Reyes Station | 15 min via Bear Valley Road |
| Entrance Fee | Free |
| Parking | Free |
| Hours | 6:00 AM – Sunset |
| Activities | Wading, kayaking, hiking, birdwatching (Swimming not recommended) |
| Facilities | Restrooms (no water/showers), picnic areas, visitor center |
| Pets | Prohibited on the beach |
| Recommendations | Sunscreen, hat, layered clothing, PLENTY OF WATER, respect wildlife |