A spit is a deposition landform connected to the coast that projects into open water. In Point Reyes, ocean waves from the northwest hit Point Reyes Beach head on (north of Limantour Spit) and bend around its tapered southern tip, gradually breaking at an angle on Limantour Beach and Spit. This angled break carries and deposits sand, contributing to the westward growth the spit. Lying at the biologically rich juxtaposition of ocean, marsh and Drakes Estero, the Limantour Spit is utilized by thousands of birds and seals on their daily and seasonal migrations. Visitors will enjoy pristine beaches, dunes and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities on this enjoyable trek along the coast.

Drakes Head from Limantour Spit

A pair of Harbor Seals relaxes near the inlet of Limantour Spit

Looking north at Limantour Spit

Twisted wood washed ashore along the large sand dunes on Limantour Spit

The Spit attracts a wide range of bird species. A turkey vulture scours the beach for fish.

Groups of Harbor Seals are commonly found on the southern tip of Limantour Spit

Early morning walking north on Limatour Spit

Seals gather on the Spit to seek refuge from open water predators including Great White Sharks

Surfer braving the sharks off Limantour Spit

Large and seemingly clumsy, if disturbed, a seal colony can disappear into the water in seconds

Early morning fog clouds Limantour Spit as jagged edges in the sand mark receding waters