Point Reyes National Seashore is one of the great pieces of coastal wilderness within range of a major American city, and it rewards a full day or even an overnight stay. The peninsula juts into the Pacific about 40 miles northwest of San Rafael and encompasses dramatic cliffs, long sandy beaches, elk herds, and one of the best whale-watching spots on the California coast.
The Point Reyes Lighthouse at the tip of the peninsula is a 300-step descent to a historic light station perched on a headland that catches the full force of Pacific swells; gray whales pass close by during their winter and spring migrations. The Limantour and Kehoe beaches are beautiful and far less crowded than the Marin Headlands beaches closer to the city. Tule elk roam freely through the Tomales Point area. The Bear Valley Visitor Center near Olema has maps and ranger information.