Point Reyes National Seashore Wildlife

Whales

Point Reyes is one of the best spots along the California coast to observe the annual winter migration of gray whales. The most popular spots are around Chimney Rock and the Lighthouse. The best time of year to see whales are mid-January and mid-March. To view mothers and calves close to shore come in early May. During popular whale watching times, park at Drakes Beach and take the shuttle bus to the Lighthouse ($7).

Elephant Seals

Elephant seals began returning to Point Reyes in the 1970s and have been increasing their numbers ever since. From December through March visitors can watch the elephant seals from the Elephant Seal Overlook near Chimney Rock. For the latest information on elephant seals at Point Reyes, see Seasonal Updates for Elephant Seals.

Tule Elk

The tule elk herd at Tomales Point is one of the largest populations in California. The herd numbers over 400 elk. The best place to observe them is in the Tule Elk Reserve at Tomales Point.

Birds

Nearly 500 species of birds have been observed in the park's 70,000 acres. The birds are found throughout the park's varied habitats, including coastal scrub, estuaries, grasslands, and forests. Among the best places for birding in the park are Bear Valley, Bolinas Lagoon, Five Brooks Pond, Limantour, and Estero Trail.

Coho Salmon and Steelhead Trout

As soon as the winter rains arrive salmon and trout begin to migrate up the streams to spawn.

Visitor Centers

Three visitor centers are located in the National Seashore - Bear Valley, Lighthouse, and Kenneth C. Patrick (at Drakes Beach). Hours vary by season.

Lighthouse Visitor Center and Point Reyes Lighthouse

Located at the tip of Point Reyes, the visitor center is only open Friday through Monday in the winter. Days and hours for 2015 have yet to be determined. The visitor center has exhibits about the lighthouse as well as maritime history and marine wildlife.

The Point Reyes Lighthouse is about a tenth of a mile from the visitor center, down about 300 steps. The interior of the lighthouse is open Fridays through Mondays from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM, except during times of high winds.

Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center at Drakes Beach

The Patrick Visitor Center's exhibits tell the story of maritime exploration in the 16h century. They also have displays about marine environments and fossils. Suspended from the ceiling is a minke whale skeleton. The visitor center is handicap accessible. They have restrooms and outdoor showers available 24 hours a day. Nearby is a picnic area with BBQ grills. Also on site is Drakes Beach Cafe. Hours and days of operation vary by season.

Bear Valley Visitor Center

The Bear Valley Visitor Center in the Olema Valley is the hub of park activities. Exhibits provide information about the ecosystems and cultural heritage of the National Seashore. Displays include a seismograph and touch table. Audio-visual programs are shown in the auditorium. Books and maps of the park are available in the store. The center is handicap accessible and has restrooms open 24-hours a day. Nearby is a picnic area with BBQ grills. Numerous trails lead out from the Bear Valley Visitor Center. While hours vary during the season, the center is open daily except on Christmas.

Easy Self-guided Trails

Kule Loklo

Trailhead: Bear Valley Visitor Center
Tour a replica of a Coast Miwok village on this 0.8-mile round trip walk.

Caution: Check with rangers or lifeguards that conditions are safe for your planned activities.

Woodpecker Trail

Trailhead: Bear Valley Visitor Center
Learn about the flora and fauna of the area on this 1-mile loop trail as it passes through fields and trees. The trail has some steep sections.

Pierce Point Ranch

Trailhead: North end of Pierce Point Road
A short, self-guided trail leads visitors through the historic Pierce Point Ranch. the dairy ranch was established in 1858.

Morgan Horse Ranch

Trailhead: Bear Valley Visitor Center
A half-mile trail guides visitors through the working Morgan Horse Ranch. The horses are used by the park rangers to patrol backcountry trails. Exhibits include corrals and demonstrations. Handicapped parking is available.

Earthquake Trail

Trailhead: Bear Valley Visitor Center
The 0.6-mile loop trail has informative exhibits about the 1906 earthquake and the San Andreas Fault. The fault runs under Point Reyes. The trail is wheelchair accessible.

Beach Fires

Fires are allowed on beaches below the high tide line. Fire builders must first obtain a free permit from a visitor center on the day they will be building the fire. Reasonable amounts of driftwood may be used on ocean facing beaches. Fires must be extinguished by 11:00 PM. Read complete information at Beach Fires.