Estero – Spanish for Estuary - is a semi-enclosed coastal body of water with fresh water influx and a free connection to the open sea. Contributions from each make estuaries one of the most biologically rich and diverse ecosystems found on earth. The Estero Trail leads through Point Reyes estuaries on its way to Drakes Head, a tall headland overlooking Limantour Spit and the Pacific Ocean.

Mudflats of the inner-estero on the way to Drakes Head

Drakes Head, as seen from the Limantour Spit Trail

View north across the Limantour Spit from atop Drakes Head

From Drakes Head, a hiker looks south as clouds roll in over Point Reyes

Looking down at the Limantour Spit and the open ocean beyond

Harbor Seals congregate and take refuge from the open ocean beneath Drakes Head and along Limantour Spit