Skunk Point

• Beaches and dunes: The main draw is the wide, powdery beach and vast dune field—classic Santa Rosa scenery with a wild, open feel.
• Tidepools and rocky corners: Around the point and adjacent headlands, tidepools host hardy invertebrates like anemones, crabs, mussels, and barnacles.
• Hints of history: Storms sometimes uncover shipwreck remnants on the sand, adding a bit of intrigue to the shoreline ramble.

This is prime shorebird territory. The back-dune and beach zone is critical habitat for the threatened western snowy plover, so expect seasonal protections. Offshore, kelp forests and marine grass beds support a rich mix of marine life—keep an eye on the water for diving birds and fish activity.

• Outside nesting season (mid-September through February) if you want freer exploration of the dune margins.
• Early mornings typically bring calmer winds and better light for photos; afternoons can howl.
• Low tide is best for tidepooling—check tides before you go.
• Crowds are rarely an issue; the long approach keeps numbers low year-round.

Bring plenty of water, food, sun protection, and windproof layers; there’s no water or shade on the route. Navigation matters—carry a map and GPS for confidence on the long out-and-back. Footing is straightforward but the distance adds up, so start early and pace yourself.