Drakes Beach

Located on the more sheltered easterly side of Point Reyes Headlands is Drakes Beach. During the summer months this is a popular spot and the broad expanse of sand can quickly fill up.

Despite being tucked away, around the corner from the full force of the Pacific Ocean there can still be plenty of waves at Drakes Beach. Before you dive in for a quick surf, be warned the water is pretty chilly, rarely getting much over 50F( 10C) even in the summer. Another hazard are the jellyfish that wash up here. Neither moon jellies and by-the-wind sailors are dangerous, but can give a bit of a sting.

The name of the beach is after Sir Francis Drake, a 16th century English explorer and buccaneer who is said to have landed here in 1579. As a further nods to the Brits, it has been mentioned that the pale sandstone cliffs here pass a fleeting resemblance to the famed White Cliffs of Dover, which combined with the frequent fog probably made Drake feel quite homesick!

Access to the beach is fairly easy with parking close to the beach. Facilities are basic but you will find restrooms, a small cafe and the Kenneth C Patrick Visitor Center.