How do you get to Wildcat Beach and where do you park?

Wildcat Beach requires a substantial hike as no roads lead directly to it. The most popular route is the Bear Valley Trail to Coast Trail, approximately 5.5 miles one-way from Bear Valley Trailhead. Park at the Bear Valley Visitor Center parking lot off Bear Valley Road near Olema. Alternatively, hikers can access it via the Palomarin Trailhead (around 5.6 miles one-way), parking at the trailhead near Bolinas. Both routes involve moderate elevation changes. A backcountry camping permit allows overnight stays at Wildcat Campground adjacent to the beach.

Are there any amenities or food options at Wildcat Beach?

Wildcat Beach has no amenities, food services, or facilities. There is a primitive backcountry campground nearby with pit toilets but no running water, so bring all water and supplies. The nearest towns with restaurants, lodging, and stores are Point Reyes Station (about 12 miles from trailheads) and Olema. Pack out all trash following Leave No Trace principles. For day hikers, bring sufficient water, snacks, and layers. Overnight campers must obtain advance permits from Point Reyes National Seashore and carry camping gear and food storage equipment.

Can you hike to Alamere Falls from Wildcat Beach?

Yes, Alamere Falls is accessible from Wildcat Beach, located roughly 1.5 miles south along the Coast Trail. This rare tide-to-fall cascades directly onto the beach from 40-foot cliffs. The hike from Wildcat Beach is easier than approaching from Palomarin Trailhead. Time your visit for low tide when the beach route is safest and the falls are most accessible. Water flow is strongest in winter and spring after rainfall, though the falls can reduce to a trickle in dry summer months. Always check tide tables before attempting this section.

Point Reyes Station · California · USA

Wildcat Beach

You'll earn this beach. The six-mile trek through coastal scrub and Douglas fir deposits you on a windswept crescent where driftwood logs stack like Lincoln Logs and harbor seals sun themselves on offshore rocks. Bring layers—the fog rolls in without warning.

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Point Reyes Station·California·USA

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About this beach

Wildcat Beach stretches along Point Reyes National Seashore's southern edge, accessible only by foot through terrain that shifts from forest to meadow to coastal bluff. The trail from Five Brooks Trailhead drops 1,000 feet over six miles, passing through stands of eucalyptus before opening onto grasslands where tule elk graze. By the time you reach sand, civ…

Where it is

Wildcat Beach

Point Reyes Station, California, USA

37.9980°, -122.9803°

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Top things to do

At Wildcat Beach

Trek to Alamere

Waterfall drops onto sand northward

Seal Photography

Offshore rocks host colonies daily

Driftwood Lounging

Tree trunks make windbreak seating

Elk Spotting

Coastal scrub holds grazing herds

Near this beach

Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Wildcat Beach.

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Good to know

Questions people actually ask about Wildcat Beach.

Is it safe to swim at Wildcat Beach?

Swimming at Wildcat Beach is not recommended due to dangerous conditions typical of Point Reyes beaches. The area experiences strong rip currents, unpredictable waves, and extremely cold water temperatures year-round. Sneaker waves can appear without warning, pulling people into the surf. There are no lifeguards on duty. The National Park Service advises visitors to enjoy the beach for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic photography rather than swimming. If you do wade, never turn your back to the ocean and stay well above the high tide line.

What is the best time to visit Wildcat Beach?

Wildcat Beach is accessible year-round, but late spring through early fall (May-October) typically offers the most pleasant conditions with less fog and calmer weather. Summer months can still be foggy and windy, so bring layers. Winter brings dramatic storm-watching opportunities but more challenging hiking conditions due to rain and muddy trails. Wildlife viewing, including elephant seals and migrating whales, is excellent in winter and early spring. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds, and always check Point Reyes National Seashore weather forecasts before your trip.