Point Reyes National Seashore is a wonderful place to take children. I have been taking my daughter there since she was old enough to travel in a baby hiking carrier. I was excited to show her the world, and I would point out and name everything we saw and heard to help build her vocabulary. Some people might have thought I was crazy having a one-sided conversation with a baby but teaching my daughter how to communicate from an early age was one of the BEST mom-moves I have made! Teaching her how to sign as a baby kept her crying to a minimum because she was able to communicate to me what she wanted or needed, and I was able to solve her problem swiftly and accurately. So, if you are tired of playing the guessing game, you should give this a try.
Below are our top 3 kid-friendly hikes at Point Reyes. I chose them because they are short hikes that have unique features to keep children entertained. Although these are kid-friendly hikes, you are still out in nature so please exercise caution. Check the National Park Service current conditions and closures, check the weather, observe the signs or warnings displayed, do not swim in the ocean, beware of sneaker waves, never turn your back to the ocean, and stay clear of animals.
Elephant Seal Overlook
This is the shortest and easiest hike, which makes it a great hike for beginners! A short walk from the parking lot, will bring you to an overlook where you can see elephant seals! If you do not know what an elephant seal is, you are in for a treat. I recommend learning about them before your visit so it will be even more meaningful. For some free learning materials (e.g., informative cartoon, real life videos, kids’ activity sheets, fun facts, etc.) and more information about this hike, continue here.
Abbotts Lagoon
If your kiddo likes birds, this is the hike for them. Abbotts Lagoon is a great place to go bird watching, especially in the fall or winter. The hike to Abbotts Lagoon is relatively flat and easy. You will walk through lush green lands, see wildflowers, and you may even see otters swimming in the lagoon and other animals along the way. If you continue further, you can explore the sand dunes and visit Great Beach. For more information about this hike, continue here.
McClures Beach
McClures Beach is a great place to explore tidepools and have a peaceful picnic. This hike is more challenging than the others because it is not flat, but it is still easy enough for small children. As you walk on the trail, you can see a stream making its way to the beach. We enjoyed watching the tiny waterfalls along the way. For more information about this hike, continue here.
Runner Up
You might be surprised that I did not include the hike to Point Reyes Light House as one of my top 3 kid-friendly hikes. I did not include this because of the flight of stairs that lead to the lighthouse. Although there are places to rest along the way, it may be too strenuous for small children. However, if you think your kids can make it, it is one of my favorite must-see stops at Point Reyes.
My daughter was able to walk up and down the stairs without assistance as young as five years old. We loved visiting the lighthouse to watch the migrating whales. The best time to see them is January through March. The hike itself is beautiful. You will have sweeping coastal views and see some interesting shaped leaning trees. There is also a Lighthouse Visitor Center.
