Visited: May 2016
Alamere Falls is a “tidefall” (a waterfall directly into the ocean) located north of San Francisco in the Point Reyes National Seashore. The hike is approximately 9 miles round trip, with a few offshoots if you want to tack on some extra miles. The hike itself is not technical (with the exception of the last scramble down the rocks) and provides sweeping views of the coastline, lush forested sections, and two beautiful lakes along the way.
The Start
Coast Trail Via the Palomarin Trailhead
You’ll find parking for the Palomarin Trailhead at the end of Mesa Road outside of Bolinas, CA. The drive up from the south has a beautiful, winding stretch of Highway 1 after crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. From the parking lot, you’ll hit the Coast Trail heading north.
The Hike
Coast Trail to Alamere Falls
As you continue north up the Coast Trail, you’ll get some amazing views of the rugged coastline from exposed hillsides, tree tunnels, and small wooden footbridges. Bass and Pelican Lakes are beautiful sights along the way, signaling you’re almost to the falls. Bass Lake is a popular swimming location as well for those who want to cool off during a hot day and take a break from the hike.
The Falls
Alamere Falls Trail from the Coast Trail
After you pass Pelican Lake, approximately 4 miles in from the parking lot, there is an unmaintained trail that branches off from the Coast Trail. It is easy to miss, so keep an eye out for the sign on the left-hand side of the Coast Trail. From the Coast Trail, it’s about half a mile or so to the falls through a narrow, heavily vegetated path. There will be a few open spots, but some crouching and squeezing past other hikers will be required.
Once you break out at the end of the Alamere Falls Trail, you’ll find yourself at the top of a steep, rocky cliff that falls down toward the beach. As you make your way down, you will find a series of smaller falls and pools along the way. At the very bottom, you’ll find the last drop and Alamere Falls. The water cascades down the rock face and makes its way to the ocean in a small stream.
Warning: the descent to the beach is slippery and difficult. The rock fractures easily and the climb down can be dangerous. Exercise caution.
Along the return trip, we opted to take the Palomarin Trail out and back to Palomarin Beach, which added about 2 miles roundtrip to our hike. The trail can be difficult to follow if the grass is high, so pay attention to your navigational aide (map, GPS, compass, phone). The beach is rocky and features some interesting tide pools. We also saw some kiteboarders during our hike. Keep an eye out for the wildflowers along the way!
The Finish
The road back and refueling
On the drive back down Highway 1, you’ll see more awesome views of the coast, San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance. There are plenty of lookout points and turnouts if you want to stop and take photos. We pulled over at an access for the Rocky Point Trail for some photos, though we opted not to do any more hiking for the day.
We stopped to have dinner at Fish in Sausalito. This great little restaurant is situated right on the harbor, with indoor and outdoor seating available, and sells fresh, sustainable seafood. Their menu is, understandably, laden with seafood dishes but also features other options, such as a burger and even PB&J off the kid’s menu. We highly recommend the Fish & Chips, Crab Roll, and the Portuguese Red Chowder. (Although we have yet to encounter a dish on their menu we didn’t love!) They also have a great selection of beer and wine, which you can enjoy while you wait if there happens to be a long line when you arrive.
Planning Tips
This hike covers a little over 1,200 feet of elevation gain, so though it is not technically difficult for the majority of the trail, there is some gradual climbing. Some parts of the trail are exposed, so sunscreen, a hat and other protection is recommended. The Alamere Falls Trail is also known to have poison oak along it, so long sleeves and pants are a good idea. The beach is only accessible at low tide and we suggest planning your trip around that period. Check the tide charts online (we recommend using the NOAA tide charts) and plan to arrive at the falls during the low tide window.
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