How to get to Limantour Beach in California by car?
Limantour Beach is a sandy beach located between Drakes Bay and the Limantour Estero estuary, in Marin County, in the US state of California.
Where is Limantour Beach?
The beach is located in western Marin County, in northern California. It’s part of the Point Reyes National Seashore.
Is the road to Limantour Beach paved?
The road to Limantour Beach, a long, narrow spit of sand with breaking waves, is entirely paved. It’s called Limantour Road. It’s said to be the most beautiful drive in Point Reyes.
How long is the road to Limantour Beach?
Starting from Point Reyes Station, the road is 12.87 km (8.0 miles) long and ends at a parking lot for the beach. The parking lot is big, and the sand is about a five-minute stroll from there. You just have to cross a metal bridge and climb a sand dune to get there.
How long does it take to drive to Limantour Beach?
Plan about 20 minutes to complete the drive to the sheltered beach without any stops. However, it may take longer as the main section and parking lot are often very crowded on weekends. This is a great place to beachcomb and look for birds and other animals. This area is known for frequent sightings of California Harbor Seals. Because of its south-facing location and the shelter of the Point Reyes peninsula, its waves are calmer than at other nearby beaches, making it a good place for family activities. The beach stretches for close to four miles from the west end of Limantour Spit east to Santa Maria Beach at its southeast end.
Is Limantour Beach dangerous?
Nestled in Point Reyes National Park, the water at this northern California beach, like many others in the region, remains cold year-round. With ocean temperatures dipping as low as 10°C (50°F), those without wetsuits often find it difficult to stay in the water for extended periods. Visitors should be mindful of hazards such as hypothermia, sneaker waves, and rip currents. Although rare, there have been occasional reports of shark attacks on surfers in the area. It is advisable to avoid visiting on windy or rainy days, as there is no shelter on the beach and the wind can be quite severe. Always exercise caution near the ocean and be aware of strong currents and waves.