Palomarin Trailhead Point Reyes
Hike to a stunning coastal waterfall cascading into the Pacific, with dramatic ocean views and diverse landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Secure parking & beat crowds
Palomarin Trailhead Point Reyes
Best Time
Secure parking & beat crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to a stunning coastal waterfall cascading into the Pacific, with dramatic ocean views and diverse landscapes.
"This trail is one of the most gorgeous trails I’ve ever hiked. It has everything I want!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast! Aim for an 8 AM arrival to snag a spot and enjoy cooler temps.
👟 Sturdy Shoes are a Must
Wear good walking shoes or sneakers; avoid sandals. Some sections can be muddy and uneven.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Alamere Falls
Coastal waterfall dropping into the Pacific
Witness a breathtaking coastal waterfall cascading directly onto the beach. A true natural wonder!
Dramatic Coastal Views
Along the Palomarin Trail
Experience epic ocean vistas and rugged cliffs that will leave you in awe. The journey is as stunning as the destination.
Lush Forests & Lakes
Palomarin Trail
Hike through diverse landscapes, from dense forests to serene lakes and ponds, spotting unique flora and fauna.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Alamere Falls
Trail Conditions & What to Pack
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast! Aim for an 8 AM arrival to snag a spot and enjoy cooler temps.
👟 Sturdy Shoes are a Must
Wear good walking shoes or sneakers; avoid sandals. Some sections can be muddy and uneven.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited amenities on the trail. Bring essentials to stay fueled for the hike.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Coastal weather changes quickly. Bring a jacket or long sleeves for cooler sections and potential poison oak.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast! Aim for an 8 AM arrival to snag a spot and enjoy cooler temps.
👟 Sturdy Shoes are a Must
Wear good walking shoes or sneakers; avoid sandals. Some sections can be muddy and uneven.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited amenities on the trail. Bring essentials to stay fueled for the hike.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Coastal weather changes quickly. Bring a jacket or long sleeves for cooler sections and potential poison oak.
🗺️ Use AllTrails App
No clear signage for the falls. The AllTrails app is helpful for navigation.
⚠️ Watch for Poison Oak
Be mindful of poison oak, especially in the latter parts of the trail. Long pants are recommended.
🌊 Check Tide Charts
If approaching falls from the beach, check tide charts for safe access.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of the Palomarin Trail and Alamere Falls, praising the epic coastal views and diverse scenery. However, some find the trail poorly marked, with muddy sections and a lack of amenities, leading to a challenging experience for those unprepared.
"Beautiful trail I enjoyed it. Unfortunately, I was trying to find the waterfall/hidden beach and google maps told me at somepoint that I would have to go off the trail to get to it. I found out that you do not you just keep following the trail all the way. I found out about it later due to no signal coverage. I wish this trail had some signs giving you information how to get there or maps. There are no resting spots. Some areas are super muddy and tight. Trail seems to not be well maintained. Ive been to many hiking spots so I am making a comparison to the many I have been. I wasted 3 hours of going in and out and never got to see the beach or waterfall. I guess it was my fault, but I've been to better trails."
Dylan Teixeira (Blue)
"Beautiful trail which leads to Alamere falls, while hiking through palomarin trail, we can find different flowers, many coastal views, little water ponds and lakes in between. Found Cala lily’s, California poppies, Banana slugs on the trail. It was such a beautiful hike with many views."
Sola Sai Sindhu
"fun, moderate/easy trail out to alamere falls -- lots of neat variation in terrain on the way out! remember to check the tide chart if you're trying to approach the falls from the beach"
Sahil Hegde
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Palomarin Trailhead is located at the northwest end of Mesa Road in Bolinas, CA. It's a popular starting point for hikes in Point Reyes National Seashore.
Yes, there is a well-maintained parking lot, but it fills up very quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving early is highly recommended.
While GPS can get you to the general area, cell signal can be spotty. It's best to have directions saved offline or use a reliable navigation app.
Public transportation options are limited and may not be convenient for reaching the trailhead directly. Driving is the most common method.
The drive involves winding roads, particularly as you approach Bolinas. Take your time and enjoy the scenic route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Point Reyes National Seashore does not typically require an entrance fee for day use, but always check the official NPS website for any current alerts or changes.
There are no specific fees for using the Palomarin Trailhead itself, but parking can be competitive.
The trailhead and parking lot are generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, it's best to confirm with the National Park Service for any specific restrictions.
No, parking is on a first-come, first-served basis. Early arrival is the best strategy.
For day hikes to Alamere Falls, no special permits are typically required. However, for overnight stays or specific activities, permits may be necessary.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike is generally considered moderate to hard, covering about 13-14 miles round trip. It involves varied terrain and elevation changes. 
Expect to spend 5-6 hours for the round trip, depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the views.
Yes, there are vault toilets available at the trailhead. These are the only restrooms along the route.
Some visitors note that the trail can be muddy and not always perfectly maintained, with potential for overgrown sections.
No, dogs are not allowed on this trail or in Point Reyes National Seashore.
No, bikes are not permitted on the Palomarin Trail.
You might spot deer, rabbits, banana slugs, and various birds. Keep a respectful distance.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic coastal cliffs, the cascading Alamere Falls, and the unique Cypress Tunnels on the way are prime photo spots.
Late afternoon light can be beautiful, but be mindful of the tide if you want to photograph the falls from the beach. Early morning can also offer soft light and fewer crowds.
For personal photography, no special permit is usually required. Commercial photography may need permits, so check with NPS.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
The overlooks along the coastal trail offer stunning panoramic views. The beach at the base of Alamere Falls provides a unique perspective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Consider visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best light, but always check tide charts if you plan to capture the falls from the beach. A wide-angle lens is ideal for the expansive coastal views, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as fog can add a dramatic, moody element to your shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Alamere Falls Hike
+1 Visitors often describe the trail as challenging but incredibly rewarding, with many calling it one of their favorite hikes in the Bay Area. Be prepared for a varied trail experience. Sections can be muddy, especially after rain, and there's a notable presence of poison oak, so wearing long pants and being aware of your surroundings is crucial.
Key Takeaways for the Alamere Falls Hike:
* Distance: Approximately 13-14 miles round trip.
* Time: 5-6 hours.
* Difficulty: Moderate to Hard.
* Terrain: Varied, including coastal paths, forests, and potentially muddy sections.
* Navigation: Use a reliable hiking app as signage is limited.
Navigating Point Reyes National Seashore
Dressing in layers is essential, as temperatures can fluctuate significantly throughout the day and with changes in elevation or proximity to the ocean. While the Palomarin Trailhead offers vault toilets, these are the only facilities available for much of the hike. This means packing all your essentials, including ample water and snacks, is non-negotiable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit