North Coast of California: Shell Beach, Sonoma Coast State Park

Point Reyes is by far the most visited section of the northern California coast, though the next preserve to the north is also popular; this is Sonoma Coast State Park, which protects a 15 mile section of beaches, grassland, offshore rocks and tall cliffs, between Bodega Bay and Russian Gulch north of Jenner. Highway 1 passes many parking areas, viewpoints and trailheads, and most parts of the coast are easily accessed. Shell Beach is typical of over a dozen named beaches; a narrow stretch of coarse, dark sand and grey boulders, bordered by grassy bluffs and steeply-sloping hills.

Location: Sonoma Coast State Park