Sunset Beach Trail

Route Description for Sunset Beach Trail

Hiking this route makes for an incredible day outdoors. Wander through the rolling green hills and farms along Home Bay, Drakes Estero, and the coast. This route is ideal for wildlife viewing, as it offers plenty of birding opportunities, chances to spot elephant seals, and elk! As this route is exposed to the elements, we encourage you to dress in layers as insurance against changing conditions, which are common along the coast. Note: this area is subject to yearly closures to protect the nursing seal pups; refer to the NPS website for additional information on wildlife closures.

Setting out from the Estero Trailhead, the Sunset Beach Trail travels south along the Estero Trail. This path will guide you down to the estuary, crossing a footbridge over Home Bay. From this point forward, the path will undulate along the banks of Drakes Estero and through cattle ranches, boasting incredible views of the waters and the wildlife that inhabits the area. Eventually, you will confront an intersection with the Sunset Beach Trail. Keep right here and follow this path towards the coast.

The route will eventually guide you to a beach, where you can often find lounging elephant seals. Enjoy the wonderful scenery, then retrace your footing along the route back to the trailhead.