Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Salinas River State Beach adventure.
These coastal dunes are a birder’s paradise.
Windswept dunes and pristine sands stretch along the shore at Salinas River State Beach. Bring your birding checklist as this remote coastal park is home to California brown pelicans, red-tailed hawks, American kestrels, and western snowy plovers, to name just a few. The mile-long dune trail affords some of the best sightings, while the beach itself is a scenic spot for strolling, horseback riding, or off-shore fishing. There’s no camping at the state park, but you’ll find private campgrounds and accommodation dotted around Monterey, and the bay’s six state beaches are easily explored on a beach-hopping tour.
High coastal winds and fogs are common along Salinas River State Beach, even in summer, so dress in layers and bring something warm. Winter is one of the best times for bird-watchers, but there are birding opportunities year-round, and Western Snowy Plovers nest right on the beach each spring. Check the tides if horseback riding, as horses are limited to the wet sand sections of the beach.
Adventure calls at Fort Ord National Monument, a spectacular destination for camping enthusiasts. With its rolling hills, diverse flora and fauna, and an array of hiking and biking trails, it promises an unforgettable outdoor experience.