Point Reyes National Seashore contains unique elements of biological and historical interest in a spectacularly scenic panorama of thunderous ocean breakers, open grasslands, bushy hillsides and forested ridges. Native land mammals number about 37 species and marine mammals augment this total by another dozen species. The biological diversity stems from a favorable location in the middle of California and the natural occurrence of many distinct habitats. Nearly 20% of the State's flowering plant species are represented on the peninsula and over 45% of the bird species in North America have been sighted. The Point Reyes National Seashore was established by President John F. Kennedy on September 13, 1962.

Operating Hours & Seasons

The park is open daily (with overnight camping available by permit only) from sunrise to sunset throughout the year.

Visitor center hours are as follows: Bear Valley Visitor Center, weekdays, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., weekends and holidays 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.;

Lighthouse Visitor Center, Thursday through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Lighthouse stairs and exhibits (weather permitting), 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,

Lens Room open as weather & staffing permit, all Lighthouse facilities closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays;

Ken Patrick Visitor Center, weekends and holidays, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. All visitor centers are closed December 25.