tomales-bay-resort

Bayside Bar, Lounge and Restaurant

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:30:04 GMT

Exciting Announcement Ahead!

Opening soon on the water’s edge, this new bayfront restaurant, bar, and lounge located at the Tomales Bay Resort, invites guests to settle into a relaxed yet refined coastal atmosphere where every seat is framed by sweeping views of Tomales Bay.

Designed to blur the line between indoors and out, the space features an airy lounge, expansive patio, and a vibrant bar program centered around handcrafted cocktails and coastal-inspire plates. Drawing on the natural appeal that makes waterfront venues so compelling, panoramic vistas, fresh air, and a social, laid-back energy; the concept is equally suited for sunset gatherings, intimate dinners, or lively evenings with friends.

The Bayside promises to become a destination where the rhythm of the bay sets the tone for every experience.

April

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 19:06:22 GMT

April Showers = May Flowers!

April Adventures in Point Reyes: A Springtime Escape

April in Point Reyes is pure magic — a time when the coastal air feels fresh, the hills are painted in wildflowers, and the ocean puts on a show you won’t forget. Whether you’re here for a day trip or a weekend getaway, this is one of the most rewarding months to explore this Northern California gem.

�� Nature in Full Bloom

By April, Point Reyes’ rolling hills are alive with color. Lupines, poppies, and Douglas irises dot the trails, creating a painter’s palette against the backdrop of rugged cliffs and sweeping ocean views. The meadows near Chimney Rock and the Lighthouse area are especially stunning this time of year.

�� Whale Watching Season Finale

April marks the tail end of the gray whale migration. From the high vantage points at the Point Reyes Lighthouse or Chimney Rock, you might spot these gentle giants making their way north toward Alaska. Bring binoculars — you could also catch glimpses of seals, sea lions, and seabirds.

�� Trails Worth Exploring

Chimney Rock Trail – Short, scenic, and bursting with wildflowers.
Tomales Point Trail – Sweeping coastal views and a chance to see tule elk.
Bear Valley Trail – A lush, forested path leading to the ocean.

�� Local Flavors

After a day outdoors, nothing beats indulging in fresh local oysters from Tomales Bay. Pair them with a crisp white wine or a cold craft beer, and you’ve got the perfect post-hike treat.

�� Tips for Visiting in April

Dress in layers — coastal weather can shift quickly.
Weekdays are quieter if you want to avoid crowds.
Bring a camera; the light in spring is incredible for photography.

April in Point Reyes is a blend of serenity and spectacle — wildflowers at your feet, whales on the horizon, and the salty breeze in your hair. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down, breathe deeply, and remember why you love the outdoors.

SPRING!

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 20:42:48 GMT

Spring in Point Reyes

Spring at Point Reyes National Seashore

Spring arrives quietly along the coast of Point Reyes National Seashore, unfolding in layers of misty mornings, emerald hillsides, and the steady rhythm of the Pacific. After the winter rains, the peninsula transforms. Grasses grow lush across the coastal bluffs, seasonal creeks run clear toward the ocean, and wildflowers begin to appear in bright patches across the landscape.

For hikers, spring is one of the most rewarding seasons to explore the trails that wind through the park. Paths along Tomales Point Trail offer sweeping views of the coastline, where tule elk graze among the green hills. Inland, shaded routes through Bear Valley Trail follow quiet creeks and fern-lined forest, eventually opening to the expansive shoreline at Arch Rock.

Wildlife activity also begins to increase during this season. Harbor seals can often be seen resting on offshore sandbars, while migratory birds pass through the area on their journey along the Pacific Flyway. Gray whales may still be spotted offshore in early spring as they complete their annual migration past the dramatic cliffs near Point Reyes Lighthouse.

The air in spring carries the scent of salt and wild sage, and fog still drifts in from the Pacific, softening the horizon. It’s a season that invites slow exploration—pausing along the bluff trails, listening to waves below, or simply watching clouds move across the open sky.

Spring at Point Reyes National Seashore feels both vibrant and peaceful. The crowds of summer have yet to arrive, and the landscape feels freshly awakened. Whether walking along windswept beaches, wandering through blooming coastal meadows, or enjoying the cool ocean breeze, spring offers one of the most beautiful and tranquil times to experience this remarkable stretch of the California coast.

February in Point Reyes

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 20:42:16 GMT

February -Nature's Best

February at Point Reyes National Seashore feels like standing inside a living, breathing transition — winter not quite ready to release its grip, and spring quietly rehearsing in the wings. The air carries a clarity that only comes after the rains, when the hills glow an almost electric green and the sky seems improbably wide.

This is one of the most dynamic months along the peninsula. Storm systems still roll in from the Pacific, sculpting dramatic cloud formations that drift low over the bluffs. Between storms, sunlight pours across the grasslands, illuminating herds of tule elk grazing in Tomales Point and casting long silver reflections across the estero wetlands.

February is also peak whale migration season . From the Chimney Rock and Lighthouse overlooks, patient visitors can often spot gray whales moving south with their calves, their spouts rising like brief exclamation points on the horizon. On clear days, the ocean looks deceptively calm, but the steady wind and crashing surf remind you that this coastline remains wild and largely untamed.

The trails are quieter this time of year, lending a contemplative quality to hikes. Mud clings to boots, and the scent of wet earth mixes with coastal sage and salt air. At Abbotts Lagoon, winter rains fill the freshwater pools, drawing waterfowl and shorebirds. Elephant seals, in the midst of their breeding season, crowd the beaches at Drakes Bay, their deep, resonant calls echoing over the sand.

What makes February especially compelling is the sense of contrast: mist and sunlight, stillness and motion, rugged cliffs and delicate new wildflowers beginning to emerge. It is not the postcard summer version of Point Reyes — it is more intimate, more atmospheric, and arguably more authentic.

Photo: Fiona Wozniak

November Holiday Hiking

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 21:00:43 GMT

Earn more Thanksgiving pie!

There’s something about hiking—especially on a crisp late-November morning—that makes gratitude come naturally. Whether you hike solo or with others, being in nature gives you space to reflect on the year, appreciate the present moment, and set an intention for the holiday ahead.

Some of the best parts of Thanksgiving happen outside the dining room. A pre-meal hike is a chance to reconnect with the people you love—away from the timers, pans, and family members asking when dinner will be ready. Walking side-by-side creates natural conversations. Kids burn off energy. Adults get a chance to laugh, vent, or simply enjoy the quiet. You may even start a tradition that lasts longer than the leftovers. It doesn’t have to be long or strenuous. Even a peaceful stroll through a neighborhood park or nearby trail can shift your mindset into one of appreciation before you sit down at the table.

October in Point Reyes

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 22:44:36 GMT

October 2025

October in Point Reyes: Nature’s Quiet Magic

October in Point Reyes is one of the most beautiful—and often overlooked—times of year to visit California’s coastal treasure. The summer crowds have faded, the air carries a gentle crispness, and the landscape glows with autumn light. It’s a season that feels peaceful and personal, as if the peninsula is taking a deep breath before winter.

Golden Days and Misty Mornings

Fall arrives softly in Point Reyes. Morning fog drifts over the rolling hills, lifting to reveal wide stretches of golden grasslands and bright blue skies. Daytime temperatures are mild—perfect for hiking, biking, or exploring the beaches. Trails like Chimney Rock, Tomales Point, and Bear Valley offer stunning views and the chance to spot wildlife at its most active.

Wildlife Wonders

October is prime time for animal sightings. The tule elk at Tomales Point are still visible after their late-summer rut, often grazing close to the trail. Along the shoreline, harbor seals lounge in the sun and seabirds fill the skies. Migrating gray whales sometimes make early appearances offshore, while the coastal scrub hums with birdlife preparing for winter journeys south.

Harvest Season & Local Flavors

Fall is harvest season throughout Marin County, and Point Reyes celebrates it with abundance. Local farms and creameries invite visitors to taste fresh cheeses, apples, and other seasonal delights. Nearby wineries and breweries highlight their fall releases, while farm stands brim with pumpkins and squash. It’s the perfect time to slow down and savor the local bounty.

Peaceful Evenings by the Bay

As the sun sets over Tomales Bay, the horizon blushes in shades of pink and gold. Kayakers glide across the calm water, and the chill in the air invites cozy evenings by a fire or a relaxing night in at a local inn. The pace of life feels unhurried—inviting you to connect with nature, reflect, and recharge.

A Perfect Autumn Escape

Whether you come for the quiet beauty of the trails, the flavors of the harvest, or simply to watch the changing light over the Pacific, October in Point Reyes is a time to experience the coast at its most intimate. It’s a season of subtle wonder—when every breeze, wave, and sunset feels like a personal invitation to slow down and stay a little longer.

AUTUMN!

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 21:58:38 GMT

Fall in Point Reyes

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

LIGHTHOUSE!

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 23:14:35 GMT

Point Reyes Lighthouse

Located not too far from the TOMALES BAY RESORT, The Point Reyes Lighthouse , located in Point Reyes National Seashore along the rugged Northern California coast, is one of the most iconic and photographed landmarks in the region. Built in 1870, this historic lighthouse once guided ships through the notoriously dangerous waters off Point Reyes , known as the windiest and foggiest point on the U.S. Pacific Coast. Today, it stands as a fascinating destination for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for breathtaking ocean views.

History of the Point Reyes Lighthouse

For over a century, the Point Reyes Lighthouse warned mariners of the rocky coastline and thick fog that often shrouded the Point Reyes Headlands. Powered by a massive first-order Fresnel lens, its beam could reach 24 miles out to sea. Lighthouse keepers lived and worked here in isolation, braving fierce winds and storms to ensure the light never went out. In 1975, the U.S. Coast Guard automated the light, and the original lens was retired.

Visiting the Point Reyes Lighthouse

Reaching the lighthouse is an unforgettable experience. Visitors walk down 313 steps from the parking lot to the cliffside perch of the structure, enjoying panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean , the Farallon Islands , and in winter, migrating gray whales . The visitor center and exhibits share stories of the lighthouse keepers and display the beautifully restored Fresnel lens.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Point Reyes Lighthouse is from December through May for whale watching, or in fall for the clearest weather. Dress warmly—Point Reyes is famous for strong winds, even on sunny days.

The Point Reyes Lighthouse is managed by the National Park Service . Check the official website for hours, seasonal closures, and weather advisories before your trip. Whether you’re visiting Point Reyes for a day trip or as part of a Northern California road trip, this lighthouse is a must-see highlight of the coast.

Secret Beaches

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 19:28:34 GMT

Secret Beaches

S ecluded Beaches in the Point Reyes National Seashore

Point Reyes is home to several secluded beaches, perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty away from the crowds.

1. Secret Beach

Secret Beach is a hidden gem that can only be accessed during low tides. To reach it, you must walk south from Sculptured Beach. This beach features stunning sea caves, tide pools filled with marine life, and a natural amphitheater. It's a perfect spot for photography and exploration, but be sure to check tide tables before your visit to avoid getting trapped by rising waters. Skylight Cave is a sea cave with a collapsed ceiling at the north end of Secret Beach, which is located within the Phillip Burton Wilderness along the eastern shore of Drakes Bay. Even though Skylight Cave is only 2.5 miles (3.8 km) from the closest parking lot at Limantour Beach, it is usually only safe to visit at tides that measure -1 (negative one) foot or lower. There is also one section of the route that will require descending and later climbing back up a nearly vertical eight-foot-tall wall of rock.

2. Sculptured Beach

Sculptured Beach is known for its unique rock formations and tide pools. It is accessible via a scenic hike from the Bear Valley Trailhead. While it can get busy, the beach's dramatic cliffs and secluded atmosphere make it a great spot for a quiet day by the ocean. Sculptured Beach is located two miles southeast of Limantour Beach, which is the closest place to park, within the Phillip Burton Wilderness. From the Limantour Beach parking lot, walk about 440 yards (400 meters) to the beach, turn left and walk southeast on the beach. Sculptured Beach begins where the beach changes from sandy to partly rocky. Winter rains feed two creeks which stream across the sand into the ocean creating a wet barrier for beach walkers wishing to keep their feet dry. Once at Sculptured Beach, look for its namesake rocks lying on the shoreline. The sculptured rocks are exposed at low tide, along with the organisms that cling to them, creating an exciting area to go tidepooling.

3. Kehoe Beach

Follow this relatively flat and easy trail along the northern edge of Kehoe Marsh and out to Kehoe Beach . Look for elusive birds, brush rabbits, bobcats, and mountain lions , which are occasionally sighted in this area. The final stretch of the trail climbs up and over a sand dune, which isn't as easy as the rest of the trail.

This is the only trail within Point Reyes National Seashore where dogs are permitted. Keep dogs on-leash at all times. (See our Pets page for more information.)

4. Palomarin Beach

Palomarin Beach is another beautiful spot that, while not completely secluded, offers a more tranquil experience compared to other beaches in the area. It features stunning landscapes and is a great starting point for hikes to nearby secluded areas. The Palomarin Trailhead is located at the northwestern end of Mesa Road, approximately 5 miles (8 km) northwest of Bolinas. It is the southern end of the extremely popular Coast Trail. Between Palomarin Trailhead and Wildcat Campground, the Coast Trail connects with Lake Ranch Trail, Ocean Lake Loop Trail, Old Out Road Trail, and Stewart Trail. These trails see much less use than the Coast Trail and offer hikers the opportunity to enjoy a quieter wilderness experience.

Suggested Routes From This Trailhead :

Hike to Bass Lake : 5.2 miles (8.4 km) roundtrip, moderate
Hike to Wildcat Beach : 11 miles (17.8 km) roundtrip, moderate
Hike to Alamere Falls : 13 miles (21 km) roundtrip, strenuous

5. McClures Beach

McClures Beach is a hidden gem known for its geological wonders and is great for picnics. It offers a peaceful environment, making it ideal for those looking to relax away from the crowds. The McClures Beach Trailhead is located downhill and to the west of historic Pierce Ranch at the north end of Pierce Point Road. The McClures Beach Trail—which is mostly within the Phillip Burton Wilderness—offers a short, moderately steep hike down to an isolated and beautiful beach that is exposed to the rough Pacific Ocean surf.

These beaches provide a perfect escape for nature lovers and those seeking solitude. Be sure to prepare for hikes and check accessibility, especially for beaches like Secret Beach that depend on tide conditions. Enjoy your adventure in the beautiful Point Reyes National Seashore!

4th of July

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 21:56:57 GMT

4th of July in Point Reyes

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STARFISH!

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 22:52:48 GMT

Sea Stars!

Point Reyes boasts a rich variety of sea star species. Some of our favorite places to see these star-shaped fish are:

Sculptured Beach: Lots of intricate rock formations and rich intertidal zones. Accessible via a hike from Limantour Beach parking area and you can explore tidepools.
Duxbury Reef (near Bolinas): Located just outside the park boundaries near Agate Beach County Park in Bolinas, Duxbury Reef has one of the largest shale reefs in North America. This extensive tidepool network is home to a diverse array of marine organisms, including a variety of sea stars.

Remember to time your tidepooling during low tide and avoid being caught by incoming tides. Sturdy non-slip shoes are essential for navigating the slippery and uneven surfaces of tidepools. Watch your step - there are fragile habitats out there.

Lastly, enjoy these beautiful creatures.

Photo Credit: Juliette Wilk

Swimming Pool

Mon, 12 May 2025 17:43:55 GMT

The Pool is Open!

New Paragraph

TULE ELK!

Mon, 05 May 2025 22:03:08 GMT

Tule Elk in the Point Reyes National Seashore

Tule Elk at Point Reyes National Seashore

Nestled along the rugged coastline of Marin County, California, Point Reyes National Seashore is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including the iconic tule elk. These majestic animals, once nearly extinct, have made a remarkable comeback, symbolizing successful conservation efforts and the delicate balance between nature and human activity.

A Glimpse into the Past

Tule elk (Cervus canadensis nannodes) are the smallest subspecies of elk, endemic to California. Historically, they roamed the state's grasslands in vast numbers. However, by the late 19th century, overhunting and habitat loss had driven them to the brink of extinction. In 1978, a pivotal moment occurred when ten tule elk were reintroduced to Tomales Point within Point Reyes National Seashore, marking the beginning of a conservation milestone .

Conservation Efforts and Population Growth

The reintroduction of tule elk to Point Reyes has been met with significant success. As of the 2023 annual census, the Tomales Point herd numbered at least 315 individuals, reflecting a 20.2% increase from the previous year . This growth underscores the effectiveness of habitat protection and management strategies implemented over the decades. The tule elk's resurgence at Point Reyes National Seashore stands as a testament to dedicated conservation efforts and the importance of adaptive management. As the park continues to navigate the complexities of ecosystem restoration and land use, the tule elk remain a symbol of resilience and the enduring value of preserving our natural heritage.

Viewing the Tule Elk

For those eager to witness tule elk in their natural habitat, Point Reyes offers unparalleled opportunities. The Tomales Point Trail, a 9.4-mile round-trip hike, provides hikers with scenic vistas and frequent elk sightings, especially near watering holes around the 3-mile mark .

When observing elk:

• Maintain a respectful distance: Use the "rule of thumb"—if you extend your arm and can’t cover the elk with your thumb, you're too close .

• Use binoculars or a zoom lens: This allows for close-up views without disturbing the animals.

• Stay on designated trails: This minimizes habitat disturbance and ensures personal safety.

Photo Credits:

Christin Marie

Vella Torvick

EARTH DAY

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 23:01:38 GMT

Earth Day 2025

Every year on April 22 , people around the world come together to celebrate Earth Day —a global event dedicated to raising awareness about environmental issues and inspiring action to protect our planet. The Tomales Bay Resort is a green business. We have solar power, electric car chargers, and implement room, office, and property requirements to be a Marin County Green Certified business.

A Brief History ��

Earth Day was first celebrated in 1970 , sparked by growing public concern about pollution, oil spills, and the loss of wilderness in the U.S. Organized by Senator Gaylord Nelson and supported by a broad coalition of students, activists, and everyday citizens, the first Earth Day saw 20 million Americans take to the streets—kickstarting the modern environmental movement.

Today, Earth Day is recognized by more than a billion people in over 190 countries , making it the largest secular observance in the world.

Why Earth Day Still Matters ��

In 2025, Earth faces many challenges:

Climate change continues to reshape ecosystems and communities.
Oceans are choked with plastic waste.
Biodiversity is declining at an alarming rate.

Earth Day reminds us that small individual actions—when multiplied by millions—can lead to massive change. Whether it’s reducing waste, conserving energy, or advocating for better policies, we all have a role to play.

Earth Day Is Every Day ��

One day of awareness isn’t enough—but it’s a powerful reminder of what’s at stake and what’s possible. Earth Day is a moment to reconnect with nature, rethink our impact, and recommit to protecting the only home we have.

The Tomales Bay Resort strives to make every day Earth Day.

Beaches!

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 18:45:00 GMT

Local Beaches

Waves & Wonder: Exploring the Beaches of Point Reyes

Tucked along the rugged coast of Northern California, where fog kisses the cliffs and elk roam freely in golden grasslands, you’ll find the wild and wonderful Point Reyes National Seashore. This windswept peninsula, just an hour north of San Francisco, is home to some of the most unspoiled, soul-soothing beaches in the state.

Whether you’re craving solitude, surf, or tide pools, Point Reyes has a stretch of sand for you.

1. Limantour Beach — Long Walks & Lazy Afternoons

If you only have time for one beach, Limantour should top your list. This crescent-shaped shoreline curves gently between Drakes Bay and the wetlands of the Limantour Estero. It's perfect for strolling barefoot, hunting for sand dollars, or just lying back with a book and the sound of waves in your ears.

The surf here is generally mellow, and on a calm day, it’s a peaceful spot for a chilly Pacific dip. Harbor seals often pop up offshore, and the birdwatching? Out of this world.

2. Drakes Beach — Cliffs, Creamy Sand, and Café Vibes

Named after Sir Francis Drake (who may or may not have landed here), Drakes Beach feels like a hidden corner of England, with its dramatic white sandstone cliffs and windswept beauty. The beach is broad and usually less foggy than the western side of the peninsula, making it ideal for picnics, photography, or just basking in the coastal glow.

There’s even a small visitor center and café nearby—because nothing says “perfect beach day” like a warm drink and a cookie after a bracing walk on the sand.

3. North and South Beach — The Wild Side

These are the wilder siblings of Point Reyes’ beach family. Open ocean, big waves, rip currents, and miles of uninterrupted sand define North and South Beaches. They’re breathtaking, dramatic, and humbling—more for beachcombing and meditating than swimming.

Come here to feel small in the best way, where the Pacific crashes hard and the wind whips your hair into sea-salt dreadlocks.

4. Sculptured Beach — Secret Tide Pools & Sandstone Magic

Accessible via the southern end of Limantour Beach (at low tide only), Sculptured Beach is a local secret worth discovering. As the tide recedes, it reveals whimsical rock formations, tide pools teeming with sea stars and anemones, and tiny caves carved by waves over millennia.

It’s part adventure, part daydream—just keep an eye on the tide chart so you don’t get stranded.

Photos by:

Rachel Payne

Sally King

Wildflowers!

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 18:25:24 GMT

Spring Wildflowers

Spring in Bloom: Wildflowers of Point Reyes National Seashore

Every spring, Point Reyes National Seashore transforms. What was once a landscape of coastal fog and muted earth tones suddenly bursts with color. From windswept cliffs to inland valleys, the wildflowers arrive—bold, delicate, and utterly magical.

If you’ve never witnessed a wildflower bloom at Point Reyes, you’re in for something special.

A Natural Tapestry

Thanks to its diverse ecosystems—coastal bluffs, grasslands, wetlands, and forested hills—Point Reyes is a haven for wildflowers. The park’s varied microclimates and rich soils support over 850 plant species, and each season brings its own floral display.

Spring is the star of the show, typically peaking between March and May (though it can shift depending on rainfall). As the days warm and the winter rains soak into the soil, flowers begin to bloom in waves, each species having its moment before making way for the next.

What You’ll See

Some wildflowers are tiny and require a close eye, while others are bold enough to stop you in your tracks. Here are just a few of the beauties you might find:

Douglas iris (Iris douglasiana): Deep purple petals standing tall in the grasslands, these native irises are a signature spring sight.
California poppy (Eschscholzia californica): The state flower glows in golden-orange clusters, especially along open trails and sunny hillsides.
Indian paintbrush (Castilleja affinis): These fiery red and orange blooms pop out from among the grasses, often sharing space with lupines.
Lupine (Lupinus spp.): Spiky clusters of purple, blue, or white flowers that attract bees and butterflies alike.
Checkerbloom (Sidalcea malviflora): With its soft pink petals, this native wildflower adds a splash of sweetness to the spring palette.
Seaside daisy (Erigeron glaucus): Found near the coast, these cheerful lavender-petaled daisies thrive in salty air and sandy soils.

Where to Go

Some of the best wildflower hikes in Point Reyes include:

Tomales Point Trail : A classic spring hike, where rolling hills meet ocean views—and wildflowers line the path.
Chimney Rock Trail : Coastal views and wildflowers galore, especially in April. Look for poppies, paintbrush, and the rare Point Reyes blennosperma.
Abbotts Lagoon : A gentler trail that offers wildflowers, birdwatching, and the occasional bobcat sighting.
Bear Valley Trail : Lush and green with wildflowers tucked among the ferns and forest edges.

Be a Thoughtful Visitor

As tempting as it may be, resist the urge to pick or step on wildflowers. Point Reyes is protected land, and its native species—some of which are rare or endangered—need space to thrive. Stay on trails, don’t trample off-path, and leave only footprints.

Consider bringing a camera, a field guide, or using a plant identification app to learn more about what you see. Even just slowing down to admire a tiny bloom can deepen your appreciation of the ecosystem around you.

Nature’s Quiet Celebration

Wildflowers are more than just a visual treat—they’re a sign that the landscape is alive and well, cycling through its ancient rhythms. In the fleeting weeks when the hills are painted in purples, golds, and reds, nature seems to celebrate itself. And lucky us—we get to witness it.

So grab your hiking boots, pack a windbreaker (Point Reyes always has that ocean breeze!), and head out to catch the bloom. It’s a reminder that beauty doesn’t always shout—sometimes, it simply unfolds, petal by petal, right at your feet.

Beautiful Photos by: Charlene Call

Bobcat!

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 19:57:45 GMT

Beautiful Bobcats!

Hello! I am a bobcat and I live in the Point Reyes National Seashore. Many people see me and think I'm a mountain lion. Not so - I am way cooler than a mountain lion and definitely more visible. Those other guys are very elusive and rare to be seen. Best time to see me is when the grasses are shorter as I can easily blend in with my surroundings as I hunt rodents. Remember I'm still a wild animal even though I look soft and cuddly, like your loveable house cat.

Photo by Tom Reynolds

Photo by Brian Shepard

Hawk!

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 20:35:46 GMT

Hawks are fascinating!

Hawks are birds of prey, and thus obligate carnivores. This means that they only eat meat, and never consume any plant matter. Because they live in so many different habitats, these birds eat a wide variety of prey.....no vegetarian hawks here!

They hunt rabbits, snakes, rats, mice, squirrels, lizards, fish, birds, and virtually anything small enough to catch. Some species hunt anything they can catch, but others specialize on a few types of prey and eat nothing else.

Great photo by Christin Kless of a hawk taking flight.

Sunrise

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 00:01:19 GMT

The sunrises at the Resort are epic!

This photograph was taken by a guest at the hotel (and the winner of our 2024 photo contest) showing the most gorgeous sunrise on Tomales Bay. The morning sun silently rises up over Elephant Mountain and starts to glisten on Tomales Bay, right outside of your hotel room!

There is no better feeling than witnessing the dawn of a new day. Best views are from our Bayview Rooms.

Whales!

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 20:09:19 GMT

It's Time for Whale Watching! March 2025

What to Look For

Head out to the Lighthouse and look for whale spouts. Spouting is the most common behavior viewed from land. This is where the whale is surfacing for a breath. Contrary to popular belief, they are not releasing water. The spout spray is their very warm breath meeting the cooler ocean air, similar to when humans’ breathe on a cold winter day. The warm breath condenses into water droplets and will be visible for just a few seconds. On windy days, whitecaps on the ocean's surface and spouts can be difficult to tell apart. Therefore, whale watching conditions are best when there is little to no wind.

The shape of the whale spout can help identify the species that you are viewing. Gray whales will have a short, heart-shaped spout, while humpback whales will have a taller, straighter spout.

Elephant Seals!

Sun, 02 Feb 2025 01:35:04 GMT

It's Time for Elephant Seals!

Winter 2024-Spring 2025

The greatest number of elephant seals stake a claim on beaches around the Point Reyes headlands from December through March for the birthing and mating season. Visitors may observe a colony of elephant seals from the Elephant Seal Overlook near Chimney Rock , above Drakes Bay, or from the South Beach Overlook a short distance north of the Point Reyes Lighthouse visitors' parking lot. The southwest Drakes Beach elephant seal population reaches over 600 by February!

Photo by: Amy Barrett

tomales-bay-resort

Bayside Bar, Lounge and Restaurant

Exciting Announcement Ahead!

April

April Showers = May Flowers!

SPRING!

Spring in Point Reyes

Spring at Point Reyes National Seashore

February in Point Reyes

February -Nature's Best

November Holiday Hiking

Earn more Thanksgiving pie!

October in Point Reyes

October 2025

AUTUMN!

Fall in Point Reyes

LIGHTHOUSE!

Point Reyes Lighthouse

Secret Beaches

Secret Beaches

Suggested Routes From This Trailhead :

4th of July

4th of July in Point Reyes

STARFISH!

Sea Stars!

Swimming Pool

The Pool is Open!

TULE ELK!

Tule Elk in the Point Reyes National Seashore

EARTH DAY

Earth Day 2025

A Brief History ��

Why Earth Day Still Matters ��

Earth Day Is Every Day ��

Beaches!

Local Beaches

1. Limantour Beach — Long Walks & Lazy Afternoons

2. Drakes Beach — Cliffs, Creamy Sand, and Café Vibes

3. North and South Beach — The Wild Side

4. Sculptured Beach — Secret Tide Pools & Sandstone Magic

Wildflowers!

Spring Wildflowers

A Natural Tapestry

What You’ll See

Where to Go

Be a Thoughtful Visitor

Nature’s Quiet Celebration

Bobcat!

Beautiful Bobcats!

Hawk!

Hawks are fascinating!

Sunrise

The sunrises at the Resort are epic!

Whales!

It's Time for Whale Watching! March 2025

What to Look For

Elephant Seals!

It's Time for Elephant Seals!

﻿ Winter 2024-Spring 2025

Winter 2024-Spring 2025