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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
431 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
20.9 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
5-7h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Estero and Sunset Beach Loop

Measurement:

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Table of contents

Adventure along the Estero and Sunset Beach Loop, and indulge yourself in the views of wildlife, the seashore, and lush greenery. We love this trek due to the diversity of its scenery, and we know you will too. Enjoy quintessential coastal views while getting your steps in!

Route Description for Estero and Sunset Beach Loop

Leading you through cattle ranches, over rolling hills, to coastal headlands and sandy beaches, the Estero and Sunset Beach Loop boasts an unparalleled experience. Much of this hike is exposed, providing epic views, but also extreme conditions. Due to the proximity to the coast, you can expect windy and foggy weather, so we encourage you to wear layers! Don’t forget to charge your camera, as the scenes along this trek are picture perfect! Note: this route is subject to yearly closure to safeguard the nursing elephant seal pups; refer to the NPS website for additional details regarding wildlife closures.

Setting out from the trailhead, the Estero and Sunset Beach Trail follows the Estero Trail south. This path will guide you down to the estuary, leading you across a footbridge and over Home Bay, before heading back up into the meadowlands. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the cattle as you make your way to a junction, keeping right onto the Sunset Beach Trail to arrive at the beach and the end of the headlands, which boast an incredible overlook. If the tide is low, you can head east over the ocean floor to Sunrise Beach. If not, retrace your footing back along the Sunset Beach Trail to the intersection. Take a sharp right here onto the Estero Trail, then onto the Sunrise Beach Trail.

This path will lead you south to yet another junction, where you will keep right in order to loop to Sunrise Beach and back up to the Estero Trail. At this point, you will keep left and follow the Estero Trail all the way back to the trailhead, retracing your steps the entire way.

Getting to the Estero and Sunset Beach Loop Trailhead

Find the trailhead off Sir Frances Drake Boulevard.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Lollipop

Estero and Sunset Beach Loop Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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