McGrath State Beach

McGrath State Beach is a coastal area with sand dunes and wetlands along the Pacific Ocean in Oxnard. The shoreline extends roughly two miles and includes the Santa Clara River estuary where freshwater and salt water meet.

The area was once home to the Chumash people who lived from the abundance of ocean resources and built settlements in this region. Over time the land became a protected zone to preserve the delicate coastal landscape.

The beach serves as an educational center where visitors learn about coastal ecosystems, bird migration patterns, and natural resource conservation through guided programs.

The beach offers camping areas and trails for walking or watching birds. Visitors have direct access to the water for swimming, surfing, and fishing but should pay attention to tides and weather conditions.

The wetland here shelters over 240 bird species that stop here during migrations between North and South America. The bird diversity makes the location one of the most valuable habitats along the California coast.

Location: California

Website: https://parks.ca.gov/?page_id=607

GPS coordinates: 34.22500,-119.25833

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:31