During a previous stay in San Francisco, I tried to reach the Point Reyes National Seashore to watch the sunset, but I had failed. Not anticipating the hour long, intense drive of switchbacks and winding roads, I knew I was not going to reach the lighthouse in time for the sunset. I was so disappointed and began the drive back in hopes to make this trek again in the near future.
A couple of months later, I found myself leaving from San Francisco driving north to Marin County. This is not a road for the faint of heart, but I was determined to make it this time, on time and with enough time to reach this spectacular view. 
Having navigated through the challenging landscape, I turned into the entrance of the park. I was surprised to find that I was driving through private farmlands, but continued to stay on course. Posted signs clearly explained that the cattle farms were under the purview of the California government.
The roadway through the park continued until I finally arrived at the entrance to the park, a short distance from the lighthouse. The parking lot was practically empty with only a couple of cars and I noticed ahead there was a gate at the entrance to the lighthouse. I was confused but started my hike when I was welcomed by a herd of deer grazing alongside of the path.
I continued along the paved pathway noticing the spectacular view of the seashore to my right. Within a few hundred feet and around the bend, I noticed what appeared to be living quarters. Thinking that I may be trespassing on private property, I thought about turning back towards my car. At that time, a young girl was driving towards the house and mentioned that I was heading in the right direction to see the lighthouse.
It was turning out to be a great time to view the local wildlife. Within a few hundred feet, I noticed a hawk-like bird sitting on the power line.
As I edged closer towards the Point Reyes Light, I was reminded of why I love west coast sunsets. Having lived in Southern California, I couldn’t wait to head down to San Clemente pier each night to watch the sun disappear into the horizon. The reflecting colors of the sun through the cloudy sky creates a different experience each time.
Around the corner, I noticed a fenced off area and as I approached closer, there was a set of stairs leading to the lighthouse. While I had a great view through the fence, I wished I could have visited when it was open. I’m just not sure if I could handle a third attempt on those crazy roads, but it won’t be anytime soon.
Have you been to the Point Reyes National Seashore? Were you able to visit the lighthouse? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my trip to Point Reyes National Seashore. Wishing you many Happy Travels!
What to See and What to Do:
Point Reyes National Seashore
1 Bear Valley Road
Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
Telephone: 415 464 5100
- Admission Fee: There is no entrance fee to visit Point Reyes National Seashore.
- Hours: Open all year from 6:00AM to 12:00AM; Bear Valley Visitor Center is open (March through October) on weekdays from 10AM to 5PM and on weekends and holidays from 9AM to 5PM. From November to February on weekdays from 10AM to 4:30PM and weekends and holidays from 9AM to 4:30PM
- Amenities: Lighthouse, visitor center, parking, camping, boat-in camping, ranger-guided programs, habitat restoration program, yoga classes, salmon spawning (seasonal)
- Scenic View: Gorgeous views of the coast from the hiking trails and this is the perfect place for watching the sunset.
- Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
- Tips for Your Visit: The road to reach Point Reyes National Seashore from San Francisco may affect those that are prone to car sickness. The length of the trip (1 hour each way) is long, so provide enough time if you are interested in watching the sunset. Bring plenty of water and snacks and ensure that your vehicle has plenty of fuel for the drive. You can take the hike to the lighthouse or an easier option to park near it and take the short trail. Summer is the best time to visit due to fog.
Where to Stay:
Tomales Bay Resort & Marina
12938 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard
Inverness, CA 94937
Telephone: 415 669 1389
Where to Eat:
Saltwater Oyster Depot
12781 Sir Frances Drake Boulevard
Inverness, CA 94937
Telephone: 415 669 1244
Did somebody say oysters? I was ready for about a dozen raw oysters on the half shell! As if that was not enough, Peter and I split the Shellfish Risotto….crazy amazing!