California Coastal National Monument

The California Coastal National Monument is a protected area located along the coastline of California, USA. It stretches for approximately 1,100 miles, encompassing more than 20,000 small islands, rocks, and sheer cliffs. Established in 2000 by President Bill Clinton, this monument is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and serves to protect and preserve the natural beauty and ecological significance of California's coastal resources.

The monument spans from the Oregon border down to the Mexican border, providing a diverse range of coastal landscapes to explore. Its primarily coastal location offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and unique geological formations. Visitors can discover rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, tide pools, and a wide variety of marine wildlife, including seals, sea lions, whales, and numerous bird species.

Besides its natural significance, the California Coastal National Monument also holds historical importance. It contains remnants of ancient Native American cultures, including shell middens and other archaeological sites. These sites offer insight into the rich cultural history of the indigenous populations that once inhabited these coastal areas.

There are several activities to enjoy within and nearby the California Coastal National Monument. Visitors can explore its fascinating ecosystems by hiking along the scenic coastal trails or participating in birdwatching and wildlife observation. The monument also offers opportunities for camping, fishing, and boating, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the coastal environment.

Surrounding the monument are numerous attractions and landmarks that augment the visitor experience. The nearby Point Arena-Stornetta Unit, located southwest of Mendocino, is a designated California Coastal National Monument "Gateway Site" that provides beautiful coastal views and trails for hiking and photography. The Point Cabrillo Light Station, a historic lighthouse located in Mendocino County, offers guided tours and exhibits that shed light on the region's maritime history. Similarly, Point Arena Light Station, situated in Mendocino County as well, is a must-visit for lighthouse enthusiasts, offering guided tours and stunning views from its observation deck.

Overall, the California Coastal National Monument presents a remarkable opportunity for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and outdoor adventurers alike. With its breathtaking coastal landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich historical heritage, it offers a memorable experience for anyone seeking to explore the beauty and wonders of California's coastline.

The California Coastal National Monument is situated in the state of California, extending along the entire length of the state's coastline. Spanning over 1,100 miles, it encompasses a diverse range of landscapes, including towering cliffs, sandy beaches, rocky shores, and secluded coves. This monument stretches from the Oregon border in the north to the Mexico border in the south, encompassing numerous offshore islands as well. With its strategic positioning, the California Coastal National Monument offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, showcasing the state's stunning coastal beauty and providing numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.

Address & Contact

Sorry we don't have an address for this park on file yet.
Phone: NULL
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit California Coastal National Monument is during the summer months, particularly from June to September. During this time, the average maximum temperatures range from 74°F to 78°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The average minimum temperatures range from 46°F to 55°F, ensuring comfortable conditions even in the evenings. Additionally, precipitation during this period is relatively low, ranging from 0.03 inches to 0.13 inches per month. Thus, summer offers the ideal weather conditions to fully enjoy the coastal attractions and engage in outdoor activities in the national monument.

Campsites within or near California Coastal National Monument

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

The campground is located 2.0 mi from Scotts Valley, CA and is open early mar-late dec.
Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: 113
Toilets: Flush Toilets
Showers: No
Potable Water: Yes

Santa Cruz Port District

The campground is located 1.8 mi from Santa Cruz, CA.
Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: 12
Toilets: NULL
Showers: No
Potable Water: No

Hotels within or near California Coastal National Monument

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Dream Inn Santa Cruz

A stay at Dream Inn Santa Cruz places you in the heart of Santa Cruz, steps from Santa Cruz Main Beach and Cowell's Beach. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 175 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, California 95060
Web: Link

Babbling Brook Inn

With a stay at Babbling Brook Inn in Santa Cruz (Westside Santa Cruz), you'll be within a 15-minute walk of Pacific Avenue and Pacific Garden Mall. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1025 Laurel St, Santa Cruz, California 95060
Web: Link

Ocean Pacific Lodge

With a stay at Ocean Pacific Lodge in Santa Cruz (Westside Santa Cruz), you'll be steps from Pacific Avenue and 3 minutes by foot from Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center. Featured amenities include a computer station, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Limited parking is available onsite.
Address: 301 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, California 95060
Web: Link

West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn

With a stay at West Cliff Inn - A Four Sisters Inn in Santa Cruz (Westside Santa Cruz), you'll be steps from Cowell's Beach and Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and luggage storage. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 174 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, California 95060
Web: Link

Mission Inn

Located in Santa Cruz (Westside Santa Cruz), Mission Inn is within a 5-minute drive of Swift Street Courtyard and Monterey Bay. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk.
Address: 2250 Mission Street, Santa Cruz, California 95060
Web: Link

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA

With a stay at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Santa Cruz, CA in Santa Cruz (Westside Santa Cruz), you'll be a 5-minute walk from Moore Creek Wildlife Preserve and 10 minutes by foot from Moore Creek Wetland Nature Preserve. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Event facilities at this hotel consist of conference space and a meeting room. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 2956 Mission St, Santa Cruz, California 95060
Web: Link

Seaway Inn

Located in Santa Cruz (Westside Santa Cruz), Seaway Inn is within a 5-minute walk of Santa Cruz Wharf and Main Beach. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a safe deposit box at the front desk. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 176 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, California 95060
Web: Link

202 Pelton Ave Home

With a stay at this vacation home in Santa Cruz (Westside Santa Cruz), you'll be a 3-minute walk from Monterey Bay and 5 minutes by foot from Lighthouse Point Park. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 202 Pelton Ave, Santa Cruz, California 95060
Web: Link

Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA

With a stay at Hampton Inn Santa Cruz West, CA in Santa Cruz (Westside Santa Cruz), you'll be a 3-minute walk from Swift Street Courtyard and within a 5-minute drive of Moore Creek Wildlife Preserve. Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2424 Mission Street, Santa Cruz, California 95060
Web: Link

Surfside Spanish-style Epic Views & Hot Tub 3 Bedroom Home

With a stay at this vacation home in Santa Cruz (Westside Santa Cruz), you'll be a 3-minute walk from Monterey Bay and 5 minutes by foot from Lighthouse Point Park. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 540 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, California 95060
Web: Link