Best Hikes in Point Reyes
All pictures are my own unless otherwise noted/sourced; do not use without permission.
Tomales Point Trail
Distance: 9.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
One of my absolute favorite hikes in Point Reyes National Seashore is the Tomales Point Trail. It’s a longer trek, but every step feels worth it. The trail rewards you continuously with sweeping panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, as well as stunning vistas of Bodega Bay and Tomales Bay stretching out in the distance.
Wildlife is one of the highlights here. On a lucky day, you might find yourself hiking alongside majestic tule elk grazing peacefully in the hills. Birdlife is abundant, and if you’re especially fortunate, you may even spot a coyote moving through the coastal brush.
Spring transforms the landscape into a vibrant canvas of wildflowers, with colorful blooms lining the trail in every direction. Perched along coastal cliffs, the hike is often accompanied by a refreshing ocean breeze, making it an ideal adventure even on warmer summer days.
It’s the kind of trail that combines dramatic scenery, wildlife encounters, and seasonal beauty all in one unforgettable experience.
I’ve had the chance to hike this trail multiple times, and somehow it never loses its magic. Each visit feels a little different, whether it’s the shifting light, the wildlife sightings, or the changing seasons.
There’s not much shade, so bring a hat and sun block!
The only part I don’t particularly love is the final stretch through soft sand to reach the endpoint. It can be a bit of a leg workout after an already long hike, but honestly, even that feels like a small price to pay for the incredible views waiting at the end. Once you arrive, you can sit along the cliffs, enjoy your lunch, and take in the endless ocean views. If you’re lucky, or visiting during the right season, you might even spot whales in the distance, along with seagulls soaring overhead and sea lions bobbing in the water below. It’s the perfect reward after a day on the trail.
Bolinas Ridge Trail
Distance: 11 miles one way (you can turn back any time)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
The Bolinas Ridge Trail is a tranquil, lush multi-use trail that winds through open, cattle-grazed pastures and offers sweeping panoramic views of rolling hills and the beautiful Olema Valley. It’s a peaceful escape, with wide-open landscapes that make you feel miles away from everything. In the spring, the hills transform into a vibrant blanket of bright green, making the scenery especially stunning.
As you hike, you’ll likely encounter grazing cattle along the trail. Be sure to give them plenty of space; they may stare, but they’re generally calm, so just continue walking at a steady pace. One quick heads-up: watch your step – there’s definitely plenty of cow poop along the trail! It’s all part of the authentic pasture experience, but you’ll want to keep an eye on the ground while soaking in those beautiful views.
There isn’t much shade along the way, so bringing a hat and sun protection is highly recommended. You’ll also find a few picnic tables scattered along the trail, making it an ideal spot to pause, relax, and enjoy lunch with a view.
We didn’t hike the entire trail this time, but with the beautiful weather and cool breeze, it was still a wonderful experience and one we’d happily return to.
Alamere Falls
Distance: 8.4 miles round trip or 13 miles round trip (longer, safer route)
Difficulty: Moderate
Alamere Falls is one of the most breathtaking hikes along the coast, a true adventure across varied terrain that leads to a rare tidefall cascading directly onto the beach and into the Pacific Ocean.
The hike begins at the Palomarin Trailhead, where the trail is mostly shaded in the early miles. From there, follow the Coast Trail toward Wildcat Campground, enjoying sweeping ocean views along the way. Once you reach the beach, you’re close, but it’s important to know that accessing the falls involves navigating a steep and potentially dangerous descent.
Alamere Falls is the site of multiple search-and-rescue operations each year, so caution is essential. Stay well back from cliff edges, be mindful of loose rock and coastal erosion, and avoid taking unnecessary risks for a photo.
It’s also worth noting that the National Park Service advises against using the unofficial “Alamere Falls Trail,” as it is unmaintained. If you choose to proceed, do so at your own risk and prioritize safety at every step.
