Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park
Crescent City, CA
Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park covers a long, rugged stretch of coastline south of Crescent City, one of California's largest state parks and one where old growth redwoods run right up to ocean bluffs. The beach access here is a smaller part of a much bigger park built around ancient forest, so most visitors come for the trees and find the coastline as a bonus.
The combination of old growth redwoods and open coastline is genuinely rare, though the beach itself takes a back seat to the park's bigger draw, the trees.
How we score beachesCombine a beach stop here with a stretch of the Coastal Trail if you have the time, the park rewards spending more than just a quick beach visit.
A day use fee applies; the exact amount is best confirmed at the entrance station since it can change.
A path connects parking to the beach through coastal forest and bluff terrain; expect uneven ground rather than a paved route.
Dogs are allowed on a six-foot leash in day-use areas and on beaches like Wilson Creek Beach, but not on the park's hiking trails.
Fog is common along this stretch through summer, keeping the redwoods lush and the coast cool even in August. Water stays cold year round, so this is a forest and coastline visit more than a swimming beach.
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