Greenwood State Beach

If you and your pup are living or visiting near the small town of Elk, California, there's a beach oasis that's beckoning you! Right near the spot where the Greenwood Creek flows in to the ocean, the Greenwood State Beach is a picturesque pupperdise that has all you and your pup could want for a pawfect day in the sand, surf and sun. 

The beach carries the original name of the town of Elk, back when it was large on logging during the 1800's, and featured the Greenwood Pier used for shipping and travel. Today, the pier is gone, and the beach is used for leisurely activities, such as swimming in the waves, sunbathing on the sands, searching for shells, and taking in the gorgeous views. Just offshore is Gunderson Rock, a tall rock island. Kayakers love to check out Greenwood Cove known for its rock arches and sea stacks, and they can even kayak south to Elk Creek Beach nearby. 

Your leashed pup will love to romp on these expansive sands, and splash in the water! Driftwood is often found washed ashore here, which many visitors use to built shade shelters. For a meal or snack, take the trail up to the top of the bluff for picnic tables with pawmazing ocean views, with nearby pit toilets for the humans. Be sure to bring clean-up bags for the pup, and be ready to stoop and scoop. Always have fresh water on hand to share, as well as any other beach essentials.

Located about 15 miles north of Point Arena, you'll find parking for the beach right off of Highway 1, just across from the Elk Store. An well-graded trail leads from the cars to the beach. With no fees, this beach is truly a puptastic place open from March through November! 

For a truly memorable afternoon on the incredible California coast, take your beach pup to the Greenwood State Beach!