James V. Fitzgerald Marine Reserve
Moss Beach, CA
James V. Fitzgerald Marine Reserve protects one of the richest tide pooling reefs on the Bay Area coast, with strict rules against moving or removing anything from the rocks. It's a genuinely popular destination for exactly that reason, families and school groups alike come specifically for the reef life.
One of the best tide pooling reefs on this whole stretch of coast, genuinely worth timing a visit around low tide, though it's essentially off limits to touching or collecting.
How we score beachesTime your visit tightly around low tide, this reef is only worth the trip when the water's well out, and check current rules before touching anything.
Free parking is available at the reserve.
Stairs and a path lead from parking down to the reef.
Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the tidepool areas of Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, though leashed dogs can use the inland Dardanelle Trail.
Fog is common most mornings year round, with the best low tides for exploring varying by season, worth checking a tide table.
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