Tomales Bay State Park

The Point Reyes Seashore is a naturally protected peninsula, shielded from all sides by Inverness Ridge and Drake’s Bay. Cutting into the land is Tomales Bay, a deep inlet that houses oyster farms and warm water for kayakers and swimmers. Making the journey north from the City of San Francisco is easy and pleasant, and visiting Point Reyes Station is a fun getaway for anyone from Santa Cruz to Mendocino County. 

Tomales Bay State Park is the perfect way to explore the great outdoors while enjoying local cheese and oysters from the surrounding area. There are three major areas set aside as outdoor recreation areas by the state park: Heart’s Desire, Shell Beach, and Millerton Point. While all of these areas are incredible, breathtaking locations for humans to visit, dogs are only welcome at Millerton Point, and even then, dogs are not allowed on the beach. 

The state park is home to a multitude of creatures and plants, featuring some of the richest and diverse wildlife in the state of California. Dogs can easily disrupt these habitats, even if they are well-behaved, so it is important that you respect the rules of the land and only take your dog to Millerton Point if you plan on hiking or hanging out with your dog. 

California Department of Parks and Recreation manages Tomales Bay State Park, and the area is only available for day use. Camping is available in other areas along the Point Reyes Seashore, just not explicitly in the state park. If you want the picturesque location to enjoy your fresh, local cuisine, check out Vista Point picnic area, the only area outside of Millerton Point loop trail where your dog is allowed to hang out with you on-leash. 

Overall, the Tomales Bay State Park is the perfect place to explore without getting too far away from the comforts of town. Come here on a day trip or reserve a campsite and make a weekend out of it; the area will bring you peace and slow you down from the stress of your daily life.