James V. Fitzgerald Marine Reserve

James V. Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is located at the west end of Lake Street in the city of Moss Beach. Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is a county park and marine protected area run by San Mateo County Parks. This beach is especially popular at low tide because more beach is exposed and so are the incredible tide pools.

The inter-tidal zone here is considered one of the best tidepools in all of California. They are extensive and best viewed at low tide. Birds, seals, and other animals are visible in the reserve during their various seasons. At the small visitor center there is a TV screen showing an educational video about the reserve and marine life. Learn more about tide pool zones.

Behind the beach there is a large grove of cypress trees with trails and San Vicente Creek flowing through it. The Bluff Trail leads to an ocean overlook and continues south to Seal Cove another beach in the reserve. At dusk the trails in the woods are eerie yet inviting. This elevated bluff is a great spot to view the sun setting.

To get to James V. Fitzgerald Marin Reserve, turn off Highway 1 onto California Avenue and follow it to the end at Lake Street. Check tide tables before your trip.

Address

Lake St & California Ave
Moss Beach, CA 94038

Phone

650-728-3584

Park Name

James V. Fitzgerald Marine Reserve

Owner

County

Pet Details

No dogs allowed on the beach

Fees

Free parking

Activities

Hiking, Tidepooling, Photography

Amenities

Tide Pools, Restrooms, Picnic Tables, Trails, Benches, Wooded Park, Interpretive Signs, Viewpoints

Links

Water Quality
Water Temps
Tide Chart