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(8.2-mile/13.3-km round-trip). Probably the single-most popular trail in the park, the Bear Valley Trail is the most direct walk to the ocean from Bear Valley Visitor Center. This is an excellent trail for a hot day, because it runs along a creek, and because most of it is shaded. The destination, Arch Rock, is an overlook point along the coast; there is no beach access at the end of the trail. The trailhead is at the end of the Bear Valley Parking Lot.
The historic lighthouse is on the rocky promontory of the Point Reyes Headlands. The 300 steps that lead down to the Lighthouse are 0.4 miles from the parking area. After descending the stairs, the lighthouse is an excellent place to observe marine life. The Lighthouse Visitor Center is open Th-M 10AM to 4:30PM. The stairs and exhibits are open from 10AM to 4:30PM, weather permitting, with the lens room open as staffing and weather conditions permit. All facilities are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
The park's primary Visitor Center provides an orientation of the park's roads, trails, and human and natural history. The interior exhibit space provides a glimpse of the diverse ecosystems and cultural heritage of the park. Audio-visual programs, shown in the auditorium, are available upon request. Ranger-led programs are offered on weekends. Natural history books, cards, and posters are for sale in the bookstore. Permits for backcountry camping, as well as beach fire permits, may be obtained here.
Located at beautiful Drakes Beach, the Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center contains exhibits that focus on maritime exploration in the 1500s, marine fossils, and marine environments. A minke whale skeleton is suspended from the ceiling. Allow 20–30 minutes to view exhibits. Park- and ocean-themed books, guides, and postcards, and maps, along with coffee and packaged snacks are for sale in the PRNSA bookstore adjacent to the Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center.
This renovated ranch dates back to 1858 and is representative of the agricultural heritage of this area. A short, self-guided trail guides visitors through the historic complex. The ranch, located at the end of Pierce Point Road on Tomales Bay, is open every day from sunrise to sunset.
South Beach and North Beach make up an incredible expanse of over 10 miles of undeveloped ocean beach to roam also known as "Point Reyes Beach." If you are looking for the drama of heavy surf this is the place to be. Drive-up access from North Beach or South Beach turnoffs. Dogs are allowed on a 6-foot leash on this beach. Dogs are not permitted north of the North Beach entrance as this area is protected habitat for the endangered snowy plover. Please be very cautious near the water as "sneaker waves" have been known to drag unwitting victims out to sea.
Guided western-style trail riding. Family-run. Reserve in advance by phone or through their website. Beginners are welcome.