Point Reyes National Seashore

Home to over 1,500 different species of plants and animals, the Point Reyes National Seashore is a large, diverse landscape infused with thousands of years' worth of both natural and human histories. Traditionally a popular spot for fishing and boating, this area has expanded over the past 15 years and is now home to an array of family-oriented activities and sightseeing opportunities.

If you have your dog in tow, be aware that not all areas are open to canine visitors. Most of the Point Reyes Seashore is a protected area and prohibits dogs due to their effect on the environment and the animals that call the seashore home. Depending on what you'd like to do with your pup, there are areas where you can go. For an outdoor picnic, dogs are allowed in the Bear Valley Visitor Center parking lot and nearby picnic area.

If you have a hiker on your hands, know that all the trails are closed to dogs, save one- the Kehoe Beach Trail. There's also some designated dog trails in the adjacent Golden Gate National Recreation Area. On the seashore, however, there are several beaches which are open to dogs year round, and pawfect for a oceanside stroll. Leashed dogs are allowed on Kehoe Beach, in the area north of Kehoe Beach Trail, on Limantour Beach southeast of the parking lot next to Coast Camp, and the Point Reyes/Great Beach in the area between the North Beach parking lot and the Navy installation/lifeboat station which is found one mile south of the South Beach parking area. Relax in the sun, or splash in the waves with your doggo. Between December and May, you may even spot migrating whales!

In Tomales Bay, there are more puptastic beaches open year round to your adventure pup! Check out Kilkenney Beach, Long Cove Beach, Fruit Tree Beach, Marshall Beach, No Name Beach, Tomales Beach, and Elk Fence South Beach for sand and sun! Note that you'll need to travel by boat to get you and your pup to these furbulous beaches.

Be sure to keep your dog on a six foot leash anywhere you go in Point Reyes, and be sure not to stray into prohibited areas, which include Tomales Point Elk Reserve, Hog Island, Duck Island, Pelican Point, and the Tomales Bay State Park. Bring all essentials for a safe and fun day out, including water to share with your pup and clean-up bags, and always stoop and scoop.

For a truly unique experience, check out the dog-friendly beaches and the Kehoe Beach Trail with your pup today!