Elk, seals, deer, migrating gray whales and accommodations that echo New England and Cape Cod? Yes, and it’s only a little more than an hour from San Francisco. In classic northern California fashion, this is a place where nature, cuisine, and culture come together in beautiful harmony.
What to Do:
Point Reyes National Seashore (map)
There is no lack of activities to undertake here and you probably want to start at the Visitors center to plan your day. The Point Reyes Weekend blog usually has a good summary of activities in the park.
Wildlife and Hikes
Discover seals and sea lions near the lighthouse. By March the adults start to move on but the pups remain until the summer months.
From December through May, watch the migration of California gray whales from the Point Reyes Lighthouse and Chimney Rock areas.
In late April and early May, you may see young whales close to shore with their mothers. Head out to Tomales Point to spot elk. This is a 4.7 mile trail but you don’t need to make it to the end. The elk can be spotted from early in the walk.
Hike the 1½-mile trail to Abbots Lagoon to spy migrating favorites, including hawks and peregrine falcons or the easy path to Drakes Estero, where shorebirds wade (jog stroller friendly). The Tomales Point trail not only offers views of elk but also a wealth of wild flowers in the spring. Earthquake trail offers a paved walk for those of you with strollers.
Beaches
Limantour Beach. A gem of a beach with soft sand, a cove for exploring (great for the kids) and tide pools filled with life.
Heart’s Desire Beach Nestled within Tomales Bay State Park, this is the area’s sunniest and warmest beach. There is a $6 charge to park at the family-friendly beach but it means you have access to nice amenities including bathrooms and picnic areas with grills. There is also a dock out in the water that you can swim to, jump off, lounge on, etc.
Shell Beach. A hidden local beach, you can almost miss the road signs leading to it (the sign for Camino del Mar is in fact obstructed from one direction). There is a short walking trail leads you into a very pristine and secluded stretch of beach.
Shell Beach
Where to Stay. While there are many lovely accommodations around Point Reyes, there are only a couple that will delight a family of four (or more).
Old Point Reyes Schoolhouse This compound offers both charm and entertainment for a family weekend in point Reyes. In addition to accommodations that can handle four our more, there is also bocce ball, basketball, a Jacuzzi and stores just a short walk down the street. $185-$245 for two, plus $15 for each additional person. (415) 663-1166, www.oldpointreyesschoolhouse.com.
Bear Valley Inn. For family accomodations, reserve the Hummingbird Cottage for $225 per night. 88 Bear Valley Road, Corner of Hwy 1 and Bear Valley Road, Olema, CA 94950
Ferrando’s Hideaway Bed and Breakfast Cottages. A nice set of cottages although a bit on the pricey side at $300 a night. They do offer an off-season mid-week special with two nights for the price of three. http://www.ferrando.com/index.html 31 Cypress Road, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
Sea Mist Cottages. Quaint cottage rentals, built right over the bay at a very reasonable rate of $150 per night. Call 415/663-9543 http://www.seamistcottage.com/index.htm
Point Reyes Seashore Lodge. With a grassy area leading down to the creek, your kids will have lots of room to roam, right outside your room. The two cottages are best suited for families. Rates start at $295 a night for a cottage. 10021 State 1, Olema; www.pointreyesseashore.com or 415/663-9000.
Where to Eat
Spud Point Crab Company. This tiny take-out shop at the Spud Point Marina serves the world’s best clam chowder. Also try the smoked salmon and the crab sandwich, made with a Thousand Island dressing-based sauce. 1860 Bay Flat Road; 707/875-9472 or spudpointcrab.com
Hog Island Oyster Company. While there are several great spots for oysters, this generally ranks as having the best selection. Their Kumamotos get rave reviews. 20215 Hwy 1 Marshall, CA 94940 (415) 663-9218 www.hogislandoysters.com
Drakes Bay Oyster Farm Take an oyster knife, some drinks and make an afternoon out of shucking oysters and picnicing at this nice spot. 17171 Sir Francis Drake Blvd Inverness, CA 94937 (415) 669-1149 drakesbayfamilyfarms.com
Tomales Bay Foods. Tomales Bay Foods. What used to be a hay barn now houses a mecca for foodies, with a deli, a produce stand, and Cowgirl Creamery cheeses. Its also where Indian Peach puts out top-notch take-home dinners (try the port chops and roast chicken). 80 Fourth St. (at B St.), Point Reyes Station, (415) 663-8478.
Café Reyes . The owner brought dough ball starter from Naples and has been keeping it going ever since. The result is excellent pizza crust with variations like chicken-fennel sausage and olive pizza. They also serve tasty fresh oysters. 11101 State Route 1 N, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956. (415) 663-9493.
