MacKerricher State Park
Fort Bragg, CA
MacKerricher State Park covers eight miles of Mendocino coast shoreline north of Fort Bragg, tying together dunes, tide pools, a small freshwater lake, and Laguna Point, where a boardwalk leads out to a reliable harbor seal haul-out. It's one of the more complete state parks on this coast, enough variety that a single visit rarely covers all of it.
The range of terrain and the reliable seal haul-out at Laguna Point make it a genuine local favorite, though eight miles of park means it takes more than one visit to see it all.
How we score beachesHead straight for the Laguna Point boardwalk if wildlife is the priority, it's the most reliable seal viewing spot in the park without any real hiking required.
A day use fee applies; the exact amount is best confirmed at the entrance station.
A path leads from parking to the beach; the Laguna Point boardwalk offers an easier, flatter route to the seal viewing area.
Dogs are welcome; check posted signage for specific leash rules.
Summer mornings run foggy before clearing, typical of the Mendocino coast, with water staying cold year round.
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