Fitzgerald Marine Reserve

Moss Beach, California

5.0/5

based on 3 reviews

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Details

Distance

0.89 miles

Elevation Gain

46 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Gordon Li

Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is a spectacular oasis of tidal life tucked away next in a quiet residential neighborhood less than 30 minutes away from San Francisco.

Located beside a residential neighborhood, Fitzgerald Marine Reserve offers a rare glimpse of life in the northern California intertidal zones. There are parking spaces and restrooms available, as well as ranger-led guided tours.

Be sure to check the tide charts and go during low tide (preferably 1 foot or less). During elephant seal mating season, much of the beach is blocked off to protect the marine mammals. Plan ahead to ensure the best experience!

Advanced reservations are required for all groups of 10 persons or more to visit the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve. Doing so limits the number of persons on the reef at any one time, reduces impact on marine life, and helps us protect and preserve the marine resources for future generations. Head to the park's website or call 1-650-363-4021 for more information.

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Features

Chillin

Photography

Hiking

Bathrooms

Beach

Easy Parking

Family Friendly

Groups

Picnic Area

Wildlife

ADA Accessible

Reviews

Eric Dykes

Fitzgerald Marine Reserve

08/28/18

Go at super low tide and find: sea stars, abalone, chitons, hermit crabs, maybe an octopus. The beach is also a protected area for harbor seals.

5.0

Alex Greene

Fitzgerald Marine Reserve

01/15/18

Really enjoyed exploring the tidal pools. Look carefully and you’ll see thousands of crabs of all shapes and sizes, heron and other birds hunting for fish, and who knows what else. I’d recommend going down the staircase nearest the Cypress Ave entrance, and going left towards those tidal pools, which are far leas crowded and just as interesting as the ones pinpointed on the map here. I was glad I brought my hammock (above the beach amongst the cypress trees) and a pair of binoculars, and that I was wearing a pair of old sneakers when walking on the rocks.

5.0

Susannah Howard

Fitzgerald Marine Reserve

07/24/16

This was a lot of fun. There were tons of seals and the JDs really enjoyed exploring the tide pools. Be sure to wear proper foot wear as the rocks are quite slippery.

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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Fitzgerald Marine Reserve

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Leave No Trace

Nearby

Cypress Tree Tunnels at Moss Beach

Pillar Point Bluff Loop

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