Muir Beach in Muir Beach, CA - California Beaches

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sunset at muir beach, marin county, california

About Muir Beach in Muir Beach, California

Muir Beach (the beach) is part of Golden Gate National Recreation Area and located in the small town of Muir Beach, California. This brown sand beach is popular with Marin locals as it has a friendly vibe and has bonfire pits with logs to sit on. Many people stay until sunset or later.

Redwood Creek flows down to the ocean at Muir Beach, but slows down near the beach forming a lagoon, some ponds, and wetlands that are great for birding. The creek breaches the sand at the north end of the beach.

There are hiking trails that branch out from Muir Beach in many directions inviting exploration of the headlands. Hike far enough southward and you’ll find the hidden beach called Pirates Cove.

To find the parking lot for Muir Beach, turn off Highway 1 onto Pacific Way and drive to the end. There is a long wooden bridge that takes you from the parking area to the beach access trails. Most folks congregate at the south end of the beach because that’s where the trail hits the sand. The northern part of the beach in the separate small cove is a sometimes clothing-optional beach called Little Beach.

While you are in the area and if the skies are clear, you should visit the Muir Beach Overlook to see the stunning views from high above the ocean. Look for an “overlook” sign pointing to the parking lot just off Highway 1 at north end of Muir Beach town (Seascape Drive will get you there too).

Address: 200 Pacific Way
Muir Beach, CA 94965
Park Name: Muir Beach Park, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Redwood Creek Watershed
Other Names: Formerly known as Bello Beach
Owner: National Park
Pet Details: Dogs allowed off leash if under voice control
Fees: Free parking
Activities: Hiking, Beachcombing, Birdwatching, Fishing, Sunbathing, Bonfires, Picnicking
Amenities: Restrooms, Picnic Tables, Trails, Fire Pits, Stream, Lagoon, Wetlands
Links: Tide Chart
Water Quality
Water Temps