Point Reyes: Estero Trail to Sunset Beach
Head Bay - Estero Trail
Location: Point Reyes National Seashore, CA
Duration: 3-4 hours
Mileage: 7.5-8 miles
Elevation: 658 ft elevation gain
Trailhead: Estero Trailhead (out-and-back)
Point Reyes National Seashore is my happy place. It’s my favorite hiking spot in the Bay Area. I even got engaged here!
If you want your dose of open grasslands, forested ridges, brushy hillsides, expansive sandy beaches, and rocky headlands, then point yourself to Point Reyes. There are countless trails here, but one standout hike that I’ll never get tired of revisiting is Estero Trail to Sunset Beach. It’s roughly 7.5-8 miles round-trip, depending on how far out you venture on Sunset Beach.
This hike is special because of the stunning views of the estuaries. The tides transform the shapes of these estuaries. So, what you see when you start your trek, can look very different from what you encounter on your way back. During low tides, the estuaries are a dizzying array of marshy mazes. In addition to the shifting water levels, the tides also affect the color of the water: from ocean blue to light-brown to greenish-brown. It’s truly spectacular. And did I mention this is one of the least trafficked areas in Point Reyes? Yep. Win win.
Estuary magic
The hike itself involves a few moderate climbs; three in total, one-way. After parking at the Estero parking area, you’ll hit the Estero Trail and meander through grasslands before heading into a thick Eucalyptus grove. Then, the scenery opens up and you’ll be treated to an expansive view of Home Bay, a tidal estuary. Cross over the footbridge (there is a bench if you’re in the mood to soak up more of the views) and you’ll find shallow baywater and perhaps some wildlife sightings. I’ve come across deer, otters, and egrets. From there, you’ll climb over three hilltops, passing by ponds, a lone eucalyptus tree, beautiful coastal views…and have I talked about the estuaries?
One final climb brings you to the junction with the Sunset Beach Trail. You’ll head downhill and trek through grassland and pass a huge pond. Sunset Beach is just beyond this pond. Sunset Beach is not your typical sandy beach. It’s covered with “Ice Plants” and very muddy. It’s essentially an estuary mouth but the views of Limantour Spit, Drakes Beach, and the surrounding bluffs are wonderful. Plus, it’s super secluded. Rarely do I find more than a couple of hikers out here (if any).
Have a picnic or just chill at the beach. There are a couple of large driftwood/logs that can serve as makeshift tables or chairs. Enjoy the serenity and vast ocean views. For a relatively easy hike, the payoff is incredible. Once you’re done marveling at the landscape, simply retrace your steps back to your car.
Approaching Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach
The trail is wide and well maintained. The uphills are gradual so this hike is kid-friendly. Although, be on the lookout for poison oak, especially on the path that leads right up to the beach. The only thing I can complain about is the series of cattle gates that dot the trail for those lucky cows that call Point Reyes home. Also, Estero Trailhead is pretty deep in PR so the drive is long. Other than that, this is a charming hike that offers the splendors of Point Reyes without the crowds.
First and last photos snapped by Susana Hak.