AUTUMN!

Fall in Point Reyes National Seashore: A Season of Quiet Beauty

Fall is a magical time at Point Reyes National Seashore. As the summer crowds thin and the coastal fog begins to lift, the landscape reveals a quieter, more intimate side of the park. Golden grasses cover the rolling hills, wildlife activity peaks, and crisp ocean air invites visitors to slow down and take in the beauty of the season.

One of the highlights of fall in Point Reyes is the return of the tule elk rut. Visitors can often hear the haunting bugles of male elk echoing across the hillsides of Tomales Point as they compete for attention and defend their harems. Birdwatchers will also find fall to be a rewarding season, with migrating species stopping along the Pacific Flyway and flocks of shorebirds gathering along the mudflats and estuaries.

Fall is also oyster season in Tomales Bay, where the briny, fresh flavors of the local harvest pair perfectly with a cool afternoon picnic by the water. Trails like Chimney Rock and Abbotts Lagoon become especially scenic in autumn, offering sweeping coastal views and fewer hikers on the path. With the weather often clearer and milder than in summer, fall is an ideal time for hiking, beachcombing, or simply soaking in the peace of this coastal haven.

Whether you come for the wildlife, the wide-open landscapes, or the simple joy of a quiet walk by the sea, fall in Point Reyes National Seashore is an unforgettable experience. It’s a season of transition, reflection, and discovery—perfect for those seeking both adventure and serenity along California’s rugged coastline.

Photo Credits:  Vella Torvick and Christin Marie