Tomales Bay State Park

Tomales Bay State Park is a protected area with sections on both sides of the bay, featuring sandy beaches, wetland areas, and forest along the coast. The park spreads across thousands of acres with multiple ecosystems and habitats for visitors to explore.

The park was established in 1952 to make multiple bay beaches accessible to the public. This protected status preserved a stretch of California coastline for future generations to enjoy.

The reconstructed Coast Miwok dwellings at Indian Beach offer visitors a chance to see how indigenous people lived in this coastal area. These structures help explain the traditional ways of the first inhabitants who called this place home.

Hearts Desire Beach is the most accessible with vehicle parking, restrooms, and picnic tables right by the water. The other beaches require hiking or arriving by boat to visit them.

The park has four distinct beaches but only one is reachable by car, while the others require multi-hour hikes to reach. This network of hidden beaches appeals to hikers seeking a quieter experience away from crowds.

Location: Marin County

Inception: 1952

Website: https://parks.ca.gov/?page_id=470

GPS coordinates: 38.12280,-122.88900

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:04