Tidepooling at Duxbury Reef and McClures Beach

Two rocky shores in Marin where you can walk out at low tide and see what lives in the pools. Check the tide tables before you go.

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Duxbury Reef in Bolinas is one of the largest shale reefs in North America. At low tide, the rock fractures and channels fill with anemones, crabs, sea stars, and turban snails. McClures Beach in Point Reyes is a short, steep hike down to a cove with dramatic surf and exposed rock. Both require you to check the tides — Duxbury is barely visible at high water, and McClures can trap you against the cliffs if the tide turns.

NOAA tide predictionsDuxbury Reef MPA rulesMcClures Beach — NPS

1. Bolinas

   Duxbury Reef at Agate Beach

   The reef extends nearly two miles from shore at low tide. You reach it from Agate Beach County Park, at the end of Elm Road in Bolinas. Parking is free but limited — maybe 15 to 20 spots — and fills early on weekends. Duxbury is a State Marine Conservation Area: you cannot collect rocks, shells, seaweed, or any marine life. Walk gently, stay off the algae mats, and watch the tide.

2. Point Reyes

   McClures Beach

   A 0.4-mile trail drops steeply into a cove backed by rocky cliffs at the north end of Point Reyes. The surf is rough — this is not a swimming beach — and sneaker waves are real. Check the tide before you go: the cliffs can cut off your exit. Pets are not allowed. The parking lot holds about 25 cars and fills by mid-morning on busy days. Allow 35 minutes from Bear Valley Visitor Center.