On this day – September 13 – in 1962, Point Reyes National Seashore was first protected as a National Park. It has always been a favorite spot for our family. We recommend that when you come to visit Sea Ranch you make a plan to stop along the way or perhaps make a day trip of it while staying at Abalone Bay. Better yet, make it a stopover in your plans for your northern California Coastal Roadtrip.

Like Stornetta-Point Arena National Landmark just 15 minutes north of Abalone Bay, Point Reyes boasts of over 1500 species of plants and animals to discover including the once nearly extinct Tule Elk. It also has a lighthouse to explore.
Located in Marin County, the drive to Point Reyes National Seashore from Sea Ranch is about 2 hours and 15 minutes. If traveling from the Bay Area the trek is about an hour.
Point Reyes National Seashore was established to preserve and protect wilderness, natural ecosystems, and cultural resources along the diminishing undeveloped coastline of the western United States.
The Seashore is a sanctuary for myriad plant and animal species. For the human spirit, enjoy discovery, inspiration, solitude, and recreation that provides a human connection to the land.
How to Celebrate the Designation of Point Reyes National Seashore
- Take a hike: The National Seashore has about 240 kilometers (150 miles) of hiking trails to explore. Trail maps are available at the Bear Valley Visitor Center and on their Maps page.
- Go camping: Visitors may now make online reservations for backcountry and boat-in campsites in the Seashore at Recreation.gov. Visitors may check for same-day reservations at the Bear Valley Visitor Center during regular hours of operation.
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Tule Elk at Point Reyes View Wildlife: Point Reyes National Seashore is home to a wide diversity of wildlife. Nearly forty species of land mammals and at least a dozen species of marine mammals may be seen here. Of great interest is the Tule Elk that had virtually disappeared by 1860, 13 years before the state awarded them complete protection.
- Ride a bike: Point Reyes National Seashore provides a variety of off-road biking opportunities traversing diverse habitats and terrains. You can explore trails through evergreen forests, coastal scrub, or along estuaries and beach bluffs.
- Go Fishing: Just be sure you are following the California regulations and observing where fish are and are not permitted to be taken.
- Check out the visitor centers: Check out the Visitor Centers that tells more about the Bear Valley, Kenneth C. Patrick, and Lighthouse Visitor Centers. Or visitors with an appointment are welcome to check out the artwork that is on display in the Red Barn Classroom.
- Attend one of the many Park Ranger- Guided Tours: Visitors have the opportunity to explore the wonders of Point Reyes with a Park Ranger. Discover programs offered each weekend on both Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year. During summer, winter, and spring breaks enjoy programs also offered on weekdays.
Learn More About Point Reyes National Seashore!
Visit their website to learn more about the many wonderful things to explore and experience at Point Reyes National Seashore. Don’t forget 4th graders & their families can now get a FREE annual pass to public lands http://everykidinapark.gov !!
And if you happen to go by there today, September 13, be sure to wish everyone a Happy 53rd Birthday!
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