Caspar Headlands State Natural Reserve
A secluded coastal gem with dramatic cliffs, abundant sea lions, and the distant Point Cabrillo Lighthouse. Discover raw, wild beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and rejuvenating
Caspar Headlands State Natural Reserve
Best Time
Peaceful and rejuvenating
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded coastal gem with dramatic cliffs, abundant sea lions, and the distant Point Cabrillo Lighthouse. Discover raw, wild beauty.
"Completely and utterly unknown spot, tucked away on a side street with zero signage."
🤫 Secret Entrance Alert!
Park outside the gate and walk 0.1 miles in. Ignore 'private property' signs; it's a public access point! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture stunning ocean vistas, sea arches, and wildlife. The lighthouse at dusk is a must-see! :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sea Lion Colony
Ocean rock islands
Witness teeming rock islands filled with barking sea lions and seals. A truly wild spectacle!
Dramatic Coastal Views
Along the sandstone cliffs
Experience rugged, wild ocean vistas and sculpted sea arches. Perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.
Point Cabrillo Lighthouse
Visible from the headlands
Catch a glimpse of the historic lighthouse winking at dusk. A picturesque addition to the coastal scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Finding the Entrance
Embrace the Wild
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Secret Entrance Alert!
Park outside the gate and walk 0.1 miles in. Ignore 'private property' signs; it's a public access point! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture stunning ocean vistas, sea arches, and wildlife. The lighthouse at dusk is a must-see! :camerawithflash:
🦭 Hear the Seals
Listen to the loud calls of seals and sea lions echoing off the cliffs. A unique auditory experience! :speaker:
🚶♀️ Short & Scenic Walk
Enjoy a brief, beautiful walk along the cliffs. Perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in the views. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Secret Entrance Alert!
Park outside the gate and walk 0.1 miles in. Ignore 'private property' signs; it's a public access point! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture stunning ocean vistas, sea arches, and wildlife. The lighthouse at dusk is a must-see! :camerawithflash:
🦭 Hear the Seals
Listen to the loud calls of seals and sea lions echoing off the cliffs. A unique auditory experience! :speaker:
🚶♀️ Short & Scenic Walk
Enjoy a brief, beautiful walk along the cliffs. Perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in the views. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Caspar Headlands as a hidden gem offering unparalleled solitude and rugged coastal beauty. The dramatic ocean views, abundant sea lion colonies, and the picturesque lighthouse are major draws. While the 'secret' entrance and lack of signage add to its charm, some find the trails a bit precarious.
"Completely and utterly unknown spot, tucked away on a side street with zero signage. There is even some "no trespassing/private property" signs posted to the gate, but there is an opening for a person to walk through. I don't even remember how I realized this was a public place, this is truly a hidden spot to the general public. However, it's a very cool spot to go see, there isn't much to it, just one trail out along a sketchy, eroding, knife edge sandstone cliff. It's actually somewhat dangerous if you go too far, but you can stop at any time and enjoy the same view. Seems to be popular with sea lions, I was out there two separate occasions, both times the rock islands in the ocean were teeming with barking sea lions. Very rugged and wild ocean vista, great spot to enjoy solitude, I don't know if anyone even knows about this place who isn't a resident haha!"
Allan Ruyters
"Awesome place to relax, watch the scenery and take very nice pictures. You can see the point cabrillo lighthouse, the cliff, the ocean, some sea lions and seals, flowers and have a small walk around. I enjoyed a lot just staying there for some minutes with the sounds of the waves and was perfect to stretch my legs a bit."
Trachemysta
"Very peaceful to sit out here and enjoy listening to the sounds of the ocean waves and seals while watching the birds fly through. We were fortunate to stay in Caspar at a beachfront rental. It's a great place to recharge and rejuvenate while escaping from the noisy city and hectic routines."
Sandi Raygoza
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The entrance is tricky! Look for a small opening in a gate with 'no trespassing' signs on a side street. Park outside the gate and walk about 0.1 miles to reach the trails.
There is no designated parking lot. You'll need to park on the street outside the private road gate and walk in.
It's a bit of a hidden spot with minimal signage, making it feel like a secret! The walk from the gate is short and leads directly to the reserve.
Once you pass through the gate opening, a single trail leads you out along the sandstone cliffs for stunning ocean views.
You might see 'no trespassing' or 'private property' signs near the gate, but the opening is the public access point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Caspar Headlands State Natural Reserve is a public access area and does not require an entrance fee or tickets.
As a natural reserve, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no official posted hours, but it's best to visit when there's natural light.
There is no admission fee to visit Caspar Headlands State Natural Reserve. It's a free public space to enjoy.
While not officially restricted, visiting at night is not recommended due to the unmaintained trails and cliff edges. It's best enjoyed during daylight for safety.
Yes, despite some signage, there is a designated opening for public access. The reserve is a public natural area.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic coastal cliffs, sea arches, ocean vistas, and the Point Cabrillo Lighthouse (especially at dusk) offer incredible photo opportunities.
Absolutely! The rock islands are teeming with sea lions and seals, making it a fantastic spot for wildlife photography.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light for landscape photography. Dusk is also magical with the lighthouse.
There are no specific restrictions mentioned for general photography, but always be mindful of the natural environment and wildlife.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park services for current rules regarding drone operation in state natural reserves.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a peaceful walk along the cliffs, observe sea lions and seals, take in the rugged ocean views, and enjoy the crisp sea air. It's a place for relaxation and nature appreciation. +1
The trails are natural and can be somewhat sketchy and eroding along the cliff edges. Visitors should exercise caution and stay on marked paths where possible.
This is a relatively unknown spot, so it's usually very peaceful and offers a sense of solitude, especially compared to more popular coastal parks.
You're likely to see numerous sea lions and seals on the offshore rocks. Birds are also common in the area. +1
Yes, it's perfect for a short, scenic walk. The main trail offers beautiful vistas without requiring a long hike.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great spot for a brief leg-stretch and to introduce children to the raw beauty of the California coast. Pack snacks and water, as amenities are limited. The peaceful atmosphere is perfect for a family outing away from crowds.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Sit on the cliffs, listen to the waves and the calls of the seals, and breathe in the crisp ocean air. It's the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle, offering a chance to truly disconnect and recharge amidst stunning natural beauty.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss the chance to capture the abundant sea lion and seal colonies. Golden hour and dusk are particularly magical times, offering soft light and dramatic skies. Remember to bring your wide-angle and telephoto lenses to capture both the grand vistas and the wildlife details.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the 'Hidden' Entrance
This approach to access means it's not a place you stumble upon easily, but rather one you seek out. The reward for this minor navigational challenge is a truly wild and serene coastal experience, far from the typical tourist crowds.
Key takeaway: Don't be deterred by the initial lack of clear signage or private property notices. The opening in the gate is your gateway to this unique natural reserve.
The Rugged Beauty of the Coastline
This ruggedness is part of its charm, providing a sense of wildness and solitude. It's an ideal spot for those who appreciate nature in its most natural state, offering a stark contrast to manicured parks. The visual drama of the coastline, combined with the sounds of the ocean and wildlife, creates a deeply immersive experience.
Highlights: Look for sea arches and enjoy the expansive ocean panoramas. The area is also known for its vibrant wildflowers during certain seasons, adding color to the rugged scenery.
Wildlife Encounters: Sea Lions and Seals
Observing these creatures in their natural habitat is a highlight for many. The proximity to the rocks allows for clear views, and the sheer number of animals creates a dynamic and lively scene. It's a reminder of the vibrant ecosystem thriving along the Mendocino coast.
Tips for viewing: Bring binoculars for a closer look. Be patient and quiet to avoid disturbing the animals. Remember to maintain a safe distance and never attempt to feed or approach them.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit