Black Sands Beach on the Lost Coast

Whitethorn, California

5.0/5

based on 2 reviews

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Distance

0.5 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Josiah Roe

Serenity and solitude on one of the last few unspoiled and remote coastlines in The United States.

Black Sands Beach and all of the Lost Coast is almost indescribable in its ruggedness and beauty. Black Sands Beach sits along the southern portion of of the famous Lost Coast Trail, and is accessible by one of the two roads that go across the King Range to the ocean. From 101 in Garberville, head into Redway and then take the Shelter Cove Road. Follow the signs to Black Sands Beach.

The other route is to start at the Mattole Trailhead in Petrolia and hike the Lost Coast Trail.

Note: there is no camping at the trailhead itself. Camping is allowed 700' away, north of Telegraph Creek.

Afterwards head into the tiny town of Shelter Cove and grab a beer at Mario's.

Be careful to check the tide charts and take note of your campsite as many sections of the Lost Coast are impassible at high tide. Also note the weather, as it can change abruptly and violently.

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Black Sands Beach on the Lost Coast Reviews

John Chau

Black Sands Beach on the Lost Coast

04/19/16

Watch out for the tide! Definitely one of my favorite places on the LCT, although hiking this southern section before Miller's Flat is honestly the worst section to hike (difficulty-wise!).

5.0

Gaby Colletta

Black Sands Beach on the Lost Coast

12/05/15

The Lost Coast is such a surreal sight - if you have a chance, do the whole beach trail. It changes scenery more often than you would expect and has several secluded campsites like this one. Black Sands beautiful.

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Black Sands Beach on the Lost Coast

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Black Sands Beach on the Lost Coast Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

King's Peak from Shelter Cove

Chinquapin Loop on The Lost Coast

King's Peak via Lightning Trailhead

Jackass Creek via Lost Coast Trail

Explore the Avenue of the Giants

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